A lake cruise to end the meet

I was disappointed to wake up to rain, give the promising weather forecast. But it didn't last long, and the skies were clearing by the time I went to breakfast. We took our time over that, as we had nothing specific planned for the morning.

When we went out we began our morning’s explorations with a walk on part of ramparts, enjoying views of the river and port and meeting lots of friendly cats.

We then strolled around the Old Town lanes. We popped into a few shops and discovered a little Montenegrin Orthodox church, dedicated to St Peter of Cetinje. I was surprised to see a copy of the Turin Shroud on the wall inside among all the icons.

We met up with some of the others for coffee - Lesley and Julian, Ali and Co.

After relaxing over our drinks we popped back to the hotel where I topped up my sun tan lotion and collected my hat. Both would be needed in this hot sun.

We bought ice creams at a place in the square in lieu of lunch, as we knew we would be eating a lot later! The ices were much dearer than Split - 3.20 euros a scoop rather than just 2.00!

We met up with our group and guide Danilo at the Sea Gate. We took the bus south along the coast, stopping for photos of a view over Sveti Stefan.

The bus turned inland to the village of Virpazar.

After giving us the chance to use the loos in what appeared to be an abandoned pub (shades of Marie Celeste), Danilo led us to our boat. This was large and comfortable, with plenty of room both under the shade and on two open areas.

Skadar Lake

Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula and is shared with neighbouring Albania. The Montenegrin part is a national park (in Albania it is a nature reserve). It has a connection to the Adriatic Sea and is therefore a mix of fresh and salt water.

We had a very tranquil ride along a short stretch of river and out into the lake. This was beautiful, dotted with lily pads and surrounded by mountains.

We saw cormorants, grebes, coots, a tern, other ducks and the pelicans for which the lake is famous.

And of course we had lots of fun chatting, as well as enjoying the shot of local raki (firewater) that was served to any of us that wanted it (I did!)

On the far side we disembarked for a late lunch and wine at a rustic family run restaurant. Afterwards some swam, others chatted - I took photos!

We left at about 5.30, taking the boat back across the lake followed by a rather slow drive back to Kotor. We didn't get back till around 8.00 so had to go straight to dinner in a pub near our hotel.

Service was a bit slow so it was quite late by the time our desserts arrived. Most of us left straight afterwards, after many goodbyes and resolves to 'see you in Malta next year'.

Back at the hotel I sorted few things, but decided to leave packing until the morning as I needed a prompt night to make up for yesterday night's noise.