Balkans Slow Travel Festival

Set within the medieval walls of Kotor, on the fjord-like Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, the Balkans Slow Travel Festival is an intimate gathering built around the ethos of slow, immersive travel. Rather than ticking off sights at speed, it invites like-minded travellers to settle into one of the Adriatic's most dramatic corners and get to know it — its mountains, its maritime past and its living crafts.

## What to expect

The programme centres on connection and the outdoors. Guided hikes climb the slopes above the bay for sweeping views over Kotor's red rooftops and the water below, while storytelling evenings explore the region's deep seafaring heritage and local craft workshops offer a hands-on introduction to traditional skills. The emphasis throughout is on small-group experiences, conversation and a relaxed pace, making it as much a chance to meet fellow travellers as to explore Montenegro.

Kotor's Old Town is compact and walkable, and the surrounding trails start close to the walls. As programme and booking details for this edition may be limited, confirm dates, venues and how to take part before planning your trip.

The nearest airport is Tivat (TIV), just a few kilometres from the Bay of Kotor and its coastal towns; Podgorica (TGD) and Croatia's Dubrovnik (DBV) are alternatives for wider connections. From Tivat, a taxi or local bus reaches Kotor and the surrounding bayside villages in about 20–30 minutes along the shore. Montenegro's coast has no passenger rail, so buses and taxis link the towns; the Kotor bus station is the main regional hub. Given the festival's slow-travel spirit, allow extra time and consider arriving by the scenic coastal road or boat across the bay.