A 19th Century Fort is a 21st Century Wonder – Mamula Island

Mamula Island / Mark Anthony Fox All rights reserved

Concept and Main Desing MCM

Restoration OHM Mamula; Katarina Nikolic Krasan – Projektor

Encircled by the Adriatic sea, Mamula Island is a diligently restored 19th-century fort—a one-of-a-kind setting reimagined for sophisticated individualists and lovers of nature. Opening in the spring 2023 Mamula Island will bring new life to one of the most admirable Austro-Hungarian fortresses from the 19th century, situated on a small island where it preserves its authenticity and pays homage to its past. The previously deserted island – a short boat ride from Herceg Novi and the Croatian coast – and a century-long abandoned buildings are now restored to create an unrivalled destination where the luxury hotel concept and world-class culinary offerings will be complemented by a holistic spa, historical memorial gallery, and art programs.

Mamula Island / Mark Anthony Fox All rights reserved

Originally a fortress built in 1852 by Austrian General Lazar Mamula, the hotel is born from a meticulous restoration done in concert with local heritage authorities. Every brick, wall, and fortress’ historic feature has been carefully restored to its original state, yet with a keen eye to the surrounding natural elements. Through prominent courtyards and outdoor gathering spots, the hotel has become an open, breathing entity that allows the sea, wind, rocks, and crashing waves to augment the beauty of the structure. The hotel does not have a lobby in the traditional sense, with the fort’s tower hosting the spa, suites, and impressive atrium.

Interior design Piotr Wisniewski, weStudio

The hotel presents a holistic design that allows each space to resonate based on its innate, historic elements. Through organic materials like wood, stone, and natural fabrics, as well as a colour palette of earth tones and bright hues, the interiors echo the beauty of the surrounding nature. Locally sourced stone in the spa captures the space’s meditative spirit, while different stone types in rooms create a unique narrative for each guest. The interiors use cultural references to create a modern reinterpretation of a retreat, with inspiration ranging from local artisanal trades to minimalist mid-century style. The hotel’s 10 rooms, 16 junior suites, and 6 suites are full of light and intimacy, with every detail considered and each need catered for. Features and fittings have been selected so you can hide away as if you were home.

Mamula Island / Mark Anthony Fox All rights reserved

Food & Drink Graphic and simple

At Kamena, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant, French culinary techniques and savoir-faire produce delicious results. Simplicity and sophistication are key for French-Canadian chef Erica Archambault, a rising figure from the Michelin-starred Parisian restaurant Septime. Using the best local ingredients, Archambault brings sensitivity and elegance to the kitchen. The restaurant itself is set atop the west wing of the fort overlooking the southern tip of the Croatian coast and featuring stunning sunset views. The mainland’s stunning mountains and coastline are accessible with a picturesque boat ride—an invitation to discover Montenegro’s rich history and culture. Crystal-clear waters and wild scenery surround the island with the terraced, coastal town of Herceg Novi just a short boat ride from the hotel. There, you will discover a long promenade with countless restaurants and several nightclubs. Croatia, too, is easily reachable by boat.

Mamula Island / Mark Anthony Fox All rights reserved

 Well-being The haven within

A 360-degree wellness philosophy perfectly complements 360-degree views of the island’s stunning surroundings. In a tower, the one-of-a-kind spa will offer a range of sophisticated treatments including ritual-oriented remedies, using premium natural skincare by Ananné. Expect water, salt and heat therapies, sound and energy healing, traditional therapies, as well as yoga, breathwork and meditation. Three pools, an indoor gym and studio (with classes available), and ritual rooms entice those who want to balance the surrounding beauty with on-property exercise and mindfulness. Or simply indulge in Shamanic body treatments, massages, facials, and more at the hotel’s spa, where traditional techniques are paired with forward-thinking therapies.

Mamula Island / Mark Anthony Fox All rights reserved

Location

Mamula Island is inspired by global experiences and rooted in the local heritage of Herceg Novi Boka Kotorska Bay, Montenegro. As the island is protected monument, visitors will have access to the memorial gallery on the island all year round. Sitting at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the hotel brings back Mamula Island’s former lustre and re-establishes the island as a landmark for the entire region and country. As much as the island provides a sense of exclusivity and “remoteness,” it feels well connected to the surrounding bay area, with abundant small-boat traffic and shorelines nearby.