Situated on a peninsula that gracefully stretches into the blue waters of the Adriatic, the village of Perast is a gem in the Bay of Kotor, embodying a blend of natural beauty and a profound historical narrative. The Serbo-Croatian term for ‘finger,’ “prst”, seems to resonate in the name Perast, aptly describing its geographic position pointing towards the Verige strait, known as the “Iron Gates.” This spot, critical for controlling access to the inner bay, highlights Perast’s historic role under the Venetian Republic as a vital maritime sentinel. Despite its entrenched military role, Perast exudes an air of baroque beauty. The village’s architecture cleverly combines aesthetic grace with strategic fortification. Each building, from palatial homes to sacred structures, is designed with thick walls, gun ports, and strategic vantage points. Even the revered Our Lady of the Rocks church is outfitted with cannon ports, and its bell tower serves as a protective watchtower.

To try out this unique tasting experience, you will not need scuba diving equipment, just your curiosity and a speed boat. It takes about 20 minutes to get there by boat, if you leave from Kotor. You really have to watch out, as you can easily miss this hidden gem. The idea of the owners was to create a small oasis, out of the way of the masses, where you can sit back and take in the sights and the experience in peace.