Cosy up in your Adriatic winter wonder

COSY UP IN YOUR

Adriatic winter wonder tips from our very own Ivana Ma

In Luštica, we do not associate winters with gloomy colours and cold weather. We are here to assure you that, with little tips and tricks and minimal changes here and there, you could easily cosy up your house, allowing you to counter the winter blues with a tranquil atmosphere surrounding you. Last year, I spent a lot of time at home in Luštica during the whimsical Autumn and winter months, working on a special project. With the town looking festive and beautifully lit during December, I loved watching the winter waves crash into the bay rocks and even the slightly darker colour of our sky, was a sight to be admired. With just a few changes, I adjusted my interior to reflect the seasons; summer blues were replaced with warm autumnal hues. White summer sofa covers got a new grey linen slipcover and I treated myself to a new soft cream cashmere blanket to add the much needed cosiness feel, that only the sensation of winter can bring. I also bought one of the lovely light Moroccan carpets from my shop to add warmth to the bare tiles, and complimented the look with candles that always add a sparkle of joy to the ambiance.

Come winter, I sit around in a good bathrobe or a lounge dress, which I find to be much more elegant than a mismatched T-shirt and leggings. My morning ritual starts with a cup of natural tea, which I make with freshly squeezed lemon, ginger, and rosemary. If you are staying in Luštica Bay this winter, I’ll let you in on a little secret. Around town, there is plenty of homegrown rosemary ready for picking; their divine smell will guide you to the right place. Get your hands on Kotor’s locally made honey, with each jar telling a story. For a variety of flavours, make a stop at the market in Kotor. It is well worth the trip to meet the farmers and discover all of the local seasonal produce, allowing you to get more acquainted with the natural wealth of Montenegro. From the moment you open your eyes in the morning, try serving your meal on a beautiful tray. If you do not already have one, stop by my shop and I will show you a selection of handmade rattan trays, both flat and Asian style on a pedestal. This ought to keep you feeling relaxed and pampered throughout your day. Update your porcelain! There is an antique shop in Prčanj, a real treasure trove of vintage porcelain. I have bought and collected many pieces over the years and sometimes, rather than buying a whole set, I opt for just one or two teacups and plates. Never serve anything without napkins and table linens. Invite friends for afternoon tea and wear one of your favourite dresses in shades of brown and caramel. If you are up for a mini shopping spree, come for tea at my shop and I can help you pick a new seasonal favourite! Last year I discovered the most magical walk in the village of Stoliv - through the chestnut wood and up to an ancient stone village on the top of the hill. Go for a walk, snuggled up in your warm clothes, collect some chestnuts, and pick up some tree branches along the way to make a beautiful wreath for your door. Serve walnuts with a nutcracker for your guests, displaying them in a beautiful bowl with vintage napkins. Finish the day off with an amazing Thai massage at the Chedi Spa and you will step out feeling calm, relaxed and thrilled to welcome the rest of the winter.

“Make a stop at the market

in Kotor. It’s well worth the trip to meet the farmers and discover all of the local

seasonal produce...”