Amanresorts Announces Opening of Montenegro Resort

This restoration project includes Villa Miloèer, a graceful former royal summer residence, and the 15th century island of Sveti Stefan which is scheduled to launch in August of 2009.

Located in the centre of Montenegro's Adriatic coast, the site incorporates two kilometers of coastline including the pink, sandy beaches of Sveti Stefan, Miloèer Beach and the renowned Queen's Beach. Both Sveti Stefan and Villa Miloèer enjoy picturesque sea views of each other across the bay. The tiny islet of Sveti Stefan is one of Montenegro's most iconic images. Attached to the coast by a narrow isthmus, the island was once a fortified fishing village dating back to the 15th century. The 1950's saw its renaissance as a hotel, when local villagers moved to the mainland and the island became a high-profile destination for celebrities from the cinema and fashion worlds. Today, the exterior of this cluster of sturdy stone buildings remains largely unchanged, but the interiors are being meticulously restored and updated in response to the lifestyle of Amanresorts’ luxury traveller.

"I have always been attracted to the natural beauty and elegant coastline of Montenegro," states Adrian Zecha, founder of Amanresorts. "It is an honor to be able to breathe new life into a storied property such as Sveti Stefan, and we look forward to welcoming guests to this truly extraordinary resort soon.”

Villa Miloèer was the summer residence of Queen Marija Karadjordjevic and later of Josip Broz Tito, the former leader of Yugoslavia. Queen Marija, the great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria and Queen Consort of King Aleksandar of Yugoslavia, was intimately involved in the interior design of the Villa which was completed in 1936.

When completed, Aman Sveti Stefan will feature Villa Miloèer’s six suites, two one-bedroom Queen Marija Suites on the Villa’s grounds and 47 guest rooms and suites on the island of Sveti Stefan. Villa Miloèer’s spacious rooms fuse the regal grandeur of Europe with modern amenities and comforts of today. Fireplaces preside over gracious rooms with woollen rugs, timber floors, lounging furniture and silk accents. Bathrooms feature parquet and antico stone floors, free-standing bathtubs, separate shower and toilet rooms, a double vanity and wardrobes. All suites showcase Juliet balconies and picture windows with views of the sea or gardens.

At Villa Miloèer, the Dining Room, Loggia and Living Room feature refined, market-driven menus guided by the abundance of locally-caught seafood and fresh produce found in regional markets. The Dining Room is an intimate space with seven tables surrounding a large open fireplace. Tables are set with Italian linens, and contemporary furniture juxtaposes against rustic hand-loomed rugs. Views onto Miloèer Beach make this area a delightful spot for dining. The Loggia features a wisteria-covered colonnade and large day beds for taking in the breathtaking views of Sveti Stefan while enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Living Room includes a cozy lounge with views onto Miloèer Beach, and offers breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails.

As with all Amanresorts properties worldwide, Aman Sveti Stefan will provide guests with personalized excursions to natural and cultural attractions in the area. From private boat tours of the Adriatic to an afternoon stroll in the old town of Budva, from a day at the shores of Skadar Lake to cycling, mountain climbing and bird-watching amidst the country’s spectacular interior, guests of Villa Miloèer will be provided with bespoke experiences that embrace the unique spirit of Montenegro.