Mamula Fortress Lastavica
A historic island fortress in the Bay of Kotor, once a prison, now a luxury resort.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Mamula Fortress Lastavica
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic island fortress in the Bay of Kotor, once a prison, now a luxury resort.
"A striking circular fortress with a dark past, now a unique island landmark."
Boat Tour Essential
Most visitors see Mamula from a boat. Book a tour for history & views!
Check Access Policies
Island access may be limited to hotel guests. Verify before you go.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mamula Fortress Exterior
Lastavica Island
A striking circular fortress with a dark past, now a unique island landmark.
Bay of Kotor Views
Approaching Lastavica Island
Enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery as you approach this historic island.
Historical Significance
Lastavica Island
Learn about its WWII prison history and the island's transformation.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Island's Past and Present
Access and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Essential
Most visitors see Mamula from a boat. Book a tour for history & views!
Check Access Policies
Island access may be limited to hotel guests. Verify before you go.
Photography Focus
Capture the fortress's unique architecture against the Adriatic backdrop.
Historical Context
Understand its past as a prison to appreciate its transformation.
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Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Essential
Most visitors see Mamula from a boat. Book a tour for history & views!
Check Access Policies
Island access may be limited to hotel guests. Verify before you go.
Photography Focus
Capture the fortress's unique architecture against the Adriatic backdrop.
Historical Context
Understand its past as a prison to appreciate its transformation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mamula Fortress is a historically significant site, now transformed into a luxury resort. While many appreciate the unique island location and the opportunity to learn about its past, some visitors express concern over its commercialization and restricted access. Views from boat tours are widely enjoyed.
"This is a hidden gem of Montenegro with a rich history. Taking a boat tour is a good way to learn about it. At the time of our visit, we were only able to see it from the boat. The captain told us that there were plans to build a hotel and a casino on the island. To be honest, the island didn't look well-maintained, but it was still impressive."
Roberto Rodríguez Perrino
"Previously it was Prison. Nowadays it is reconstructed and functioning as a luxury hotel. If you do not have a reservation you will not be allowed to step on the island. You can only evaluate this building from the boat"
Behruz Khalatai
"Nice island, tour guide shared that that was used as a prison in the past."
Nida özeçoğlu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mamula Fortress is located on Lastavica Island in the Bay of Kotor. The most common way to visit is by taking a boat tour from nearby towns like Herceg Novi or Kotor. Some tours may offer direct access or views from the water.
Currently, there are no public ferry services directly to Mamula Island. Access is primarily through organized boat tours or private boat hire.
No, Mamula Fortress is on an island and cannot be reached by car. You will need to take a boat.
Boat tours to Mamula Fortress typically depart from Herceg Novi, Kotor, and sometimes Tivat. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
The boat journey from Kotor to Mamula Fortress can take approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the boat and sea conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the island and the fortress may be restricted, especially if you do not have a reservation at the hotel. Some boat tours include a viewing from the water, while others might offer limited access. It's best to check the current access policy.
As Mamula Fortress is now a hotel resort, its 'opening hours' are tied to hotel operations. Access for non-guests can be limited. Boat tours operate on their own schedules.
The cost varies depending on whether you take a boat tour or are a hotel guest. Boat tours typically range from €20-€50 per person. Hotel stays will be significantly more.
Historically, the fortress was accessible for exploration. However, with its current development as a hotel, free exploration might be restricted to hotel guests or specific tour itineraries. +1
There isn't a separate entrance fee for the island itself, but access is often managed by the hotel or included in boat tour packages.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the fortress against the blue sea is iconic. Capture the circular structure from the water. If access is granted, the interior courtyards and ramparts offer dramatic shots.
Yes, its unique architecture and island setting make it a compelling subject for photographers. The contrast between its historical facade and the surrounding natural beauty is striking.
Early morning or late afternoon during the golden hour offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the colors of the sea and fortress.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Montenegro, especially around historical sites and private properties. It's advisable to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the fortress's scale from the boat. A telephoto lens can be useful for details if you get closer. A polarizing filter can enhance the sea and sky.
🎫 📜 History & Culture
Built in the 19th century by General Lazar Mamula, it served as a concentration camp during WWII, holding many prisoners. It has a dark and significant history.
Yes, during World War II, Mamula Fortress was used as a prison and concentration camp.
During WWII, the fortress was a concentration camp where many captives endured harsh conditions, and some perished.
Mamula Fortress has been redeveloped and is now a luxury hotel and resort.
Yes, there is a documentary titled 'Mamula All Inclusive' that explores the island's history and its present transformation.
For Different Travelers
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History Enthusiasts
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of Mamula Fortress
In recent years, the fortress has undergone a significant transformation. It has been redeveloped into a luxury hotel and resort, aiming to blend modern amenities with the historical ambiance. This transition has been met with mixed reactions, with some appreciating the preservation and revitalization, while others lament the commercialization of a site with such a somber history.
Visitors today often experience Mamula through boat tours that circle the island, offering views of the fortress's imposing exterior. Direct access to explore the interior may be limited to hotel guests, making pre-trip research on current access policies crucial for those hoping to step inside.
Experiencing Mamula: Boat Tours and Island Views
During these tours, guides often share the fortress's compelling history, from its military origins to its time as a WWII prison. The visual impact of the circular stone structure rising from the Adriatic Sea is a significant draw. Many visitors find the sheer presence of the fortress, even when viewed from the water, to be quite evocative.
While the island is now a resort, the boat tours offer a way to connect with its past without necessarily needing to book a stay. It's a popular activity for those interested in history, unique architecture, and scenic coastal views.
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