A spontaneous decision led me to an unplanned adventure, climbing Kotor Fortress without any trekking gear, just my slip-on slippers. After lunch in Kotor Old Town with friends, climbing the historic fortress felt too tempting to resist. The ancient walls loomed above, winding their way up the mountainside, promising breathtaking views of Kotor Bay.
Kotor Fortress, or San Giovanni Fortress, has stood since the 9th century, guarding the town from above. For centuries, it symbolized Kotor’s resilience and strength. The best way to enjoy the town’s beauty is from the fortress.
Taking the Shortcut to Kotor Fortress
Instead of using the main gate, where an unofficial fee is common, I took a less conventional path. Locals and seasoned travelers mentioned a “backdoor”, a window-like opening along the trail you could climb through to skip the entrance. It required a bit of scrambling, but it added an adventurous twist to the trek.
The trail itself was rugged, lined with loose stones and wildflowers pushing through the cracks. The higher I climbed, the more I felt like I was venturing into a hidden part of Kotor’s history.
As I climbed, I met several other trekkers. Some, like me, came unprepared; others wore sturdy boots and carried walking poles. It was a good reminder that Kotor Fortress attracts people of all types: some climb it for the challenge, while others, like me, simply follow their curiosity.
Passing an Abandoned Chapel Along the Way
As I climbed, I passed an old chapel, a solitary structure nestled along the trail. Weathered by time, its walls stood as a reminder of Kotor’s deep-rooted history. The chapel, likely a place of prayer and refuge for centuries, now sat quietly amid the wild vegetation. Its faded frescoes still clung to the interior walls, and the atmosphere inside was cool and peaceful. The stillness here was striking, far from the lively streets below. I paused to take in the moment before continuing upward.
A Stunning View of Kotor Bay
Not long after, I reached a viewpoint offering an incredible panorama of Kotor Bay. The effort of climbing in slippers seemed minor compared to the reward, an uninterrupted view of the fjord-like bay, where red-roofed buildings nestled against the deep blue waters. The bay stretched out before me, bordered by steep mountains on all sides.
From this vantage point, I could appreciate just how strategically important Kotor Fortress had been. The fortress was built to protect the town from invaders and was strategically placed to overlook the bay, giving it a perfect view of any approaching threats. This panoramic view, made every step of the climb worth it.
At this point, I decided to stop at the stairs before the final ascent to the fortress. It was the perfect spot to sit down, catch my breath, and reflect. The view was so captivating that I didn’t feel the need to climb any further up the fortress. Sometimes, the journey itself offers enough reward.
As I made my way back down, I realized that the best experiences often come unplanned. Climbing Kotor Fortress without preparation made the adventure even more memorable. Whether taking the traditional route or finding an alternative path, the fortress offers one of the best perspectives of Kotor’s beauty, making it an essential stop for travelers visiting the old town.
