Seaside Serenity: One&Only Portonovi Hotel Review
“The part of the Adriatic Coast belonging to Montenegro is the purest part of the Mediterranean.”
Are you looking for a vacation spot in the south of Europe, but are you tired of the same old places? In that case, let me introduce you to the stunning Adriatic coast of Montenegro. Its picture-perfect beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns offer a refreshing alternative to crowded tourist destinations in the area.
Situated amidst this breathtaking backdrop lies Herceg Novi. And by the waterfront, you'll find the One&Only Portonovi Hotel—an oasis of elegance and serenity. Boasting world-class amenities, impeccable service, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, this luxury resort promises an unforgettable stay whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both.
Does Europe’s first One&Only hotel live up to its name? Let’s review One&Only Portonovi while we cover all aspects of the hotel, from the rooms to the location.
The Location
Nestled by the beautiful Bay of Kotor, One&Only Portonovi gives you stunning views of the water and coastline. Getting there is easy, especially if you're driving – there's lots of parking at the hotel, so no issues there. If you're flying in, you've got a few airport options. You can fly to Podgorica Airport, which is about 170 kilometers away and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes by car. Or you can choose Tivat Airport, which is only 75 kilometers away and takes about 1 hour by car.
If you're coming from Croatia, Dubrovnik Airport is a good option. I flew into Dubrovnik, and the hotel arranged a car to pick me up. Crossing the border was easy; keep in mind they do check your documents, so keep your passport with you in the car. It's a smooth and stress-free way to start your adventure in Montenegro. Looking for something a bit more fancy? Since the hotel is right by the Bay of Kotor, you can also arrive in style by speedboat.
The Rooms
Let's talk about the rooms at One&Only Portonovi – they're truly something special! During my stay, I booked the panoramic Bayview room for a reason: the spectacular view from the bathtub. Positioned near the full ceiling window, soaking in the tub offered an unparalleled scene of the bay.
Since the hotel is fairly new, everything in the room felt fresh and luxurious. The rooms are super spacious, with beds that are incredibly comfortable – perfect for a good night's sleep. But what really impressed me was the attention to detail. From the elegant designs to the thoughtful touches like automatic curtains, which came in handy for a light sleeper like me, every aspect of the room was carefully curated for maximum comfort and convenience. And let's not forget about the futuristic toilet with heated seats and a built-in bidet – a luxurious touch that you don’t find in a lot of places.
Plus, if you're traveling with family or a group of friends, the hotel also offers full-service villas for those seeking more privacy during their stay. While I was there, I heard through the grapevine that an A-list celebrity was staying there. Although I never actually saw her, it definitely speaks to the level of privacy the hotel provides ;)
The Restaurant
Let's talk about the restaurants at One&Only Portonovi – they're definitely worth mentioning! First off, let me just say that the hotel breakfast is still by far one of the best breakfasts I've had in any hotel ever. They have an incredible range of fresh options to choose from, and the best part is that you can adjust everything you order to your liking.
For lunch and dinner, there are a couple of options available, such as a sushi restaurant, as well as Italian and seafood options. However, it's important to keep in mind that the hotel restaurants are pretty expensive compared to Montenegro prices. A cocktail at the hotel costs almost as much as a full meal anyplace else. But honestly, that's to be expected given the luxury of the hotel.
The Amenities
Let's talk about the amenities at One&Only Portonovi – there are many to choose from! First off, they have a spa where you can get massages, but you can also use the sauna and steam room at your convenience. If you like to stay active during your vacay, there's also a big gym available and a tennis court. When it comes to pools, they've got you covered – there's an indoor pool as well as a big outdoor pool. But here's the kicker – they're the only place in Montenegro with a private sandy beach! Yep, you heard that right. Although sandy beaches aren't native to Montenegro, they apparently flew in the sand all the way from Egypt. And if you're looking for some party vibes, the hotel has another(!) pool with a DJ to offer beach party vibes during your stay. Plus, if you're looking for some water fun, there's a wide array of speedboat or yachting options that you can choose to explore the surroundings by boat. One thing’s for sure - here you’ll never be bored.
The Verdict
In conclusion, One&Only Portonovi is a fantastic choice if you want to experience Montenegro in a truly unique way. The staff is super friendly and professional, always ready to cater to your every need. The rooms are luxurious and brand new, offering comfort without any restrictions. Plus, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, whether you're looking to relax or be more active. It's definitely worthy of being considered the best hotel in the area. Just a heads up, though – expect prices similar to what you'd find in Italy or France. Don't assume that just because you're in Montenegro, the prices will be lower at the hotel or for the amenities. But overall, I highly recommend this hotel for an unforgettable stay!
I hope this was helpful. If you have any more questions, you can always slide into my DMs here or on Instagram, and I’m more than happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
