Seafood Specialities in Montenegro: Mussels, Wine and a Kitchen Full of Sea Air
Our first-hand guide to Montenegro seafood, from exceptional Bay of Kotor mussels and buzara to scallops and local wine, with an easy recipe for cooking fresh seafood.
Balkans
Structured travel guide for couples.
The Balkans offer a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant cultures, dramatic mountains, and stunning coastlines, where medieval towns, Orthodox monasteries, and crystal-clear lakes meet warm hospitality and incredible cuisine. Explore travel guides, itineraries, and practical tips to help plan your adventures across the Balkans. Discover the best destinations, cultural experiences, local food, and accommodations, with a special focus on Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. Whether you’re wandering the cobbled streets of Plovdiv, exploring the monasteries of Rila, relaxing on Montenegro’s beautiful beaches, or taking in the tranquil beauty of Lake Ohrid, these posts provide insider advice to help you experience the Balkans with confidence and create unforgettable memories.
The Adriatic Coast of Montenegro: Kotor, Sveti Stefan and the Bird-Filled Waters of Skadar Lake
Our couples’ guide to Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, with first-hand experiences of Kotor, Dobrota, Sveti Stefan, Our Lady of the Rocks and Skadar Lake.
Durmitor National Park: Black Lake, a Sky-High Bridge and Snow in June
Our first-hand guide to Durmitor National Park, Montenegro, covering Black Lake, Žabljak, the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, Tara Canyon and driving over Sedlo Pass in June.
A Short Bulgarian Road Trip: Belogradchik, Bachkovo & the Mountains That Shape the Country
A first-hand Bulgaria road trip taking in the spectacular Belogradchik Rocks, Bachkovo Monastery, Melnik and Bulgaria’s four major mountain ranges, including the Seven Rila Lakes.
Black Sea Coast of Bulgaria: Primorsko, Sveti Vlas, Sozopol, Nesebar & Varna for Couples
Explore Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast for couples, using Primorsko as a base for beach days and day trips to Sozopol, Sveti Vlas, Nesebar and Varna, with first-hand experiences and practical tips.
Wineries in Central Bulgaria: Chateau Copsa & Zagreus Winery Guide
Discover Central Bulgaria’s wine country on a road trip from Sofia to the coast, with first-hand experiences at Chateau Copsa and Zagreus Winery, including tastings, Mavrud, practical tips and our T42 Vibe ratings.
Sofia & Plovdiv: A Couple’s Guide to Bulgaria’s Capital and Its Oldest City
Discover Sofia and Plovdiv from a couple’s perspective, with first-hand tips on where to stay, eat and explore, from Sofia’s pedestrian centre and hidden cocktail bars to Plovdiv’s Roman theatre, Old Town and Kapana.
Sapareva Banya & Seven Rila Lakes: Thermal Spa Meets Bulgaria’s Best Hike
Discover the Seven Rila Lakes and Sapareva Banya on our Bulgaria road trip. We combine a spectacular mountain hike with thermal pools, practical trail advice and a relaxing spa stay.
Matka Canyon and Skopje: Caves, Bridges and a City That Comes Alive at Night
Discover Matka Canyon and Skopje on our North Macedonia road trip, from a boat trip to Vrelo Cave and a night beside the canyon to Skopje’s Old Bazaar, Byzantine churches and atmospheric bridges after dark.
Southern North Macedonia: Tikvesh Lake, Popova Kula and the Biggest Winery in the Balkans
Explore Tikvesh Lake in southern North Macedonia, from award-winning wineries and underground wine-cellar dining to peaceful lakeside accommodation and local cuisine. Our first-hand guide shares practical tips and memorable experiences from this highlight of our Balkans road trip.