Audio Guide of Rose Fortress

The village area and the exterior access to the fortress are open 24 hours a day, as it is a public space integrated into the settlement, although the fort restaurant has its own business hours. The most scenic way to get there is by taking a water taxi from Herceg Novi, or by car along the Luštica Peninsula.

There is no entrance fee to walk through the village of Rose and see the exterior walls of the historic fortress. However, the interior of the fort currently operates as part of the Forte Rose complex, so access to certain interior areas is usually reserved for restaurant customers or guests.

To explore the ruins, walk along the pier, and take photos of the scenery, you will need between 1 and 2 hours. If you plan to stay for a meal at the fort restaurant or enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters around it, I recommend setting aside half a day.

This site was a crucial strategic point since antiquity for controlling the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. The current fortress, with Austro-Hungarian influences, stands on foundations dating back to Roman and Greek times, historically serving as a first line of defense and a maritime customs point.

Without a doubt, sunset is the magical moment here; watching the sun go down over Herceg Novi from the fortress walls is an unforgettable experience. To avoid crowds and excessive heat, May, June, and September are ideal compared with the high season in July and August.

Unfortunately, access is difficult due to the historic nature of the site. The streets are cobbled and narrow, and there are quite a few uneven steps both in the fort and on the pier, which makes movement very difficult for wheelchairs or for people with limited mobility.

From the pier at Rose you can book excursions to the former submarine tunnels from the Yugoslav era or visit the famous Blue Cave. You also have direct views of Mamula Island, a former prison fortress located at the mouth of the bay.

Bring cash, as card connections can fail in this remote area, and wear water shoes if you plan to swim, as there are sea urchins near the rocks. Do not forget your snorkeling gear; the water visibility around the fortress walls is among the best in Montenegro.