Sustainability is at the forefront of this island retreat

If you thought incentive travel meant a far-flung trip to the Maldives, think again. Turns out there’s plenty of luxury right on your doorstep. Better for the planet and better for your pocket.

Last weekend, our friends at Ru&Co invited HeadBox on the ultimate FAM trip to Mamula Island. The four-day trip to Montenegro included a programme of local excursions, excellent food and wine, all centred on a 5* luxury private island.

The island’s rich historical backdrop is unrivalled. With UNESCO World Heritage Site status, the 19th-century fort has been the focal point of wars, from the Austro-Hungarian campaign to a dark period under Mussolini. Things, thankfully, take a lighter turn on the contemporary Mamula. 

The fort has now been fully restored and renovated, turning the striking stone walls into the backdrop for some world-class hospitality. Henning, General Manager, is genuinely passionate about restoring this island sensitively and consciously; including the local community and thoughtfully presenting its history in their museum.

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A day in Montenegro

InTours carefully curated a programme that focussed on unique experiences, wow-factor views and local produce. Local and proud was a running theme of the excursions, from centuries-old vineyards and olive groves to local fine-dining restaurants. Everything was done with Montenegro in mind.

Firstly, a morning swim of the Blue Caves, a blissfully untouched cave just a short boat ride from Mamula Island, if you’re looking for peaceful silence in clear-blue waters, this is it.

Next, we stopped by a local family-owned vineyard named Savina, a small but mighty local grower, specialising in Cabernet Sauvignon and Muscat. Unlike your typical wine-tasting experience, this mountain top vineyard had been lovingly thought out - homemade local snacks, wine pairing and a tour with a spectacular view.

Finally, a trip to Moric Olive Farm, eight generations of local olive growers in the heart of the community. Their passion for old and new methods of olive oil production was fascinating, giving us all the insider tips on how to taste, smell and see the most premium extra virgin olive oils.

If there’s one certainty I left with, it’s this: every supplier we met was generous with their hospitality. They are a true nation of feeders! Whether it was their national dish of prosciutto, or doughnuts dipped in local honey, everyone we visited offered us a new treat on arrival.

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What you can expect

The location

The beauty of Mamula rests in its close proximity to the stunning Luštica Bay. The cobblestone streets and high-end restaurants overlooking the marina remind you of a Portifino or Hvar. 

It’s no surprise that this area of Montenegro was where Ian Fleming found inspiration for Casino Royale. Filled with sleek yachts, swanky restaurants and strong cocktails.

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The hotel

If there’s one thing to get right on an incentive trip it’s the hotel and Mamula Island did not disappoint. 32 luxury suites and guestrooms make up this beautiful private island. And with 200 staff for 64 guests, the service is the best in the business.

The beauty of Mamula Island lies in the details. Lavender mist on your pillow, gifts on departure, your every need not only met but also anticipated. There is a special feeling when you stay at Mamula, and the staff are paramount to the warm environment.

The food

The first breakfast at Mamula Island presented a menu with a clear message, you won’t find avocados or passion fruit in their food because they don’t have it. 90% of ingredients are from the island and surrounding areas, making the most of Montenegrin produce. I’ve never tasted watermelon and tomatoes so good.

Likewise, the food at Galion, a port-side restaurant with a four-course tasting menu was full of sustainably sourced local ingredients. It is up there with my top 5 all-time favourites (and this job takes you to a lot of restaurants). 

If, like me, you love your wine, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety and taste of Montenegrin and Serbian wines. Each place we visited was proud to show them off, and rightly so.

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The event spaces

There’s dinner with a view and then there’s a banquet at the top of a mountain. A short cable car ride up to the new Restaurant Forza QK, with space for indoor and outdoor private dinners and breathtaking views across Montenegro and the Adriatic coastline.

Opt for something closer to home, with Mamula’s variety of event spaces. From the elegant pool deck or their own helipad, there are opportunities for BBQs, dinners and drinks receptions.

Overall, our trip to Mamula Island proved that luxury can be achieved with a conscience, and the impossible made possible.

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With special thanks to Ru&Co, All About Flights, Mamula Island, InTours for this unforgettable trip.

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