Returning vicariously to Budva, Montenegro in this post last week was so inspiring, that I have to linger a bit longer today.

Visiting in the spring was perfect. Glorious weather and hardly any tourists allowed us to wander the Old Town of Budva at our leisure. We clambered up stone steps, stood atop ancient stone walls and gazed out to sea, basking in delicious sea breezes, blistering hot sunshine, and the dazzling turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Montenegro coastline

Although this ancient city – believed to be the oldest settlement on the Adriatic Coast – was destroyed by a a devastating earthquake in 1979, it has been almost completely restored to its original form.

Old Town Budva

I loved wandering the narrow streets, stopping to peer in glistening shop windows, pausing to wonder why all the stones on one wall were numbered in red paint.

Old Town Budva streets

One of my favorite parts was the library, housed in the building below. Filled with tufted, red leather sofas, the walls are lined with glass cases full of books on Balkan history. I could’ve spent days there.

Budva library

This doorway enchanted me. Hidden down a dark alley it led to a seaside restaurant that served up delectably fresh seafood under a shady awning.

 

doorway to the sea

My brother Ryan and I shared this enormous platter of goodness, and loved every last morsel.

 

recipes from Montenegro

The views from Budva are magnificent, taking in brilliant blue ocean, hazy green mountains, and rocky islands.

views from Budva

I’d love to return to Budva one day, and time to linger in that lovely old library, swim in the Adriatic, and explore nearby villages.

 

shuttered window with flowers

How about you, dear ones? Is there a place from your travels that you long to return to?