Stari Mlini

I realise that yesterday’s post may have given the wrong impression; whilst this was the final stage of our journey it has taken us to our final two days on the Bay of Kotor before we actually fly home. This time, we’ve gone for a little Airbnb with direct access to the sea - away from the preserved magnificence of Perast, but lovely nonetheless - and half the price! 

So on our final full day here we decide we really must explore Kotor’s Stari Grad - the old town within the fortress-like walls.  We’ve been put off by the heavy traffic , the general busyness of the town, but we’re pleasantly surprised by this beautiful old settlement, a maze of narrow roads and lanes against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Of course it’s busy, but pleasantly so on the whole, with locals getting along with day to day life alongside tourists, colourful lines of washing hanging out between the ancient buildings. Yes, souvenirs shops are plentiful- generally fairly tasteful, and there are inevitably cafe-lined squares - and delicious ice cream stalls. 

The ancient gates lead through impossibly thick walls to views of the crystal clear moat still fed by springs, and it seems there’s a church round every corner. In one square, two orthodox churches - the grand St Nicholas and the tiny St Luke’s - fill the air with a wonderfully heady scent of incense. 

As the temperature climbs to over 30c, it’s time to head back to our little retreat for a siesta, before a late afternoon sunbathe by the water. It’s taken my until the last day, but I decide a swim is unavoidable - my first swim in the sea since my colostomy - and it’s blissful. 

Thankfully, this little village is home to the most wonderful restaurants - Stari Mlini - so once we’ve showered and changed we walk along the road for dinner. Situated near the water’s edge and straddling the Ljuta river with tables placed amongst the trees and relics of the flour mill dating back to 1700, it’s really quite magical -  a gorgeous setting for our last dinner in Montenegro.

Today’s main is a pre-dinner shot of an old boat at Stari Mlini looking across the Bay of Kotor - best viewed large - with collages of Kotor’s Stari Grad in extras. (Apologies - I started with this image, then changed it as I was unsure, then decided to go back to it. Put it down to travel exhaustion!) 

Thanks to all of you who’ve followed me on this journey and offered generous comments, stars and even hearts even though I’ve offered little in return  -  I’m looking forward to catching up with your journals!