The Chedi Lustica Bay - A Warm Welcome

The Chedi Luštica Bay offers sun, sea and world-class service. General manager Marc de Ruijter explains what makes this stunning destination unique

THE CHEDI LUŠTICA BAY opened in summer 2018 and such a spectacular hotel warranted an equally spectacular opening. General manager Marc de Ruijter describes the launch as ‘the party of the year in Montenegro.’ The event not only went with a swing, the guest list and the entertainment also showcased the hotel’s values. ‘We had all possible dignitaries, local artists and regional celebrities,’ says Marc de Ruijter. Internationally renowned musician Nile Rodgers topped the bill with his band Chic – and embodied perfectly the longevity, sustainability and success that is at the core of the business. The 1,700 invitees also enjoyed music from DJ Nick Bridges, who performed on a floating stage in the marina, and were entertained by magicians who mingled through the crowd.

As with everything at The Chedi Luštica Bay, attention to detail at the event was flawless and centred on the guest experience. ‘From the performances to the food stations, the hotel catered to each guest throughout the event,’ says Marc de Ruijter. This sense of going above and beyond means that many guests have already booked return visits.

And no wonder. This luxury five-star resort offers 100 rooms, 10 suites and a penthouse, with elegant, minimalist interior design that complements the natural environment and makes the most of Luštica Bay’s 270 days of sunshine each year.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood each room with sunlight and balconies offer views of the surrounding mountains or the Adriatic Sea. Sustainability is key and the hotel’s design incorporates green roofs to ensure buildings blend into the landscape, preserving the beauty of the peninsula.

From its luxury amenities to its environmental ethos, The Chedi Luštica Bay surprises and exceeds expectations in every way. So much more than a hotel, the location has quickly become an

exciting community hub that encompasses gourmet cuisine, nightlife, sports facilities and an unmissable spa. A diverse programme of events covers everything from local produce markets to dance workshops and cookery classes, and the marina area is just a few steps away. The hotel aims to make everyone feel welcome, whether you’re visiting for the day or enjoying an unforgettable stay.

From couples to families to corporate groups, The Chedi Luštica Bay is dedicated to ensuring every visitor enjoys a luxurious, authentic Montenegrin experience. Even given the prestige and expectations associated with the Chedi brand, Marc de Ruijter says that guests are wonderfully amazed by the hotel. ‘Guests are surprised that our hotel is different from other Chedi hotels, but this is the ethos of the Chedi brand: we nurture our direct environment and adapt to our unique surroundings. As a guest you don’t feel that you are part of a standalone hotel, but that you’re part of something bigger.’

The hotel, which blends perfectly into its surroundings, seamlessly integrates visitors and local residents, and The Spot restaurant has become a popular hangout for the whole community. ‘It’s casual but with upscale service,’ Marc de Ruijter explains. ‘It really has no boundaries and we wanted to establish that we really are open to everybody. We have definitely succeeded in having proper integration in the local and regional market, and combining that with our hotel guests and marina guests.’

The Asian-inspired spa is one of the hotel’s most popular attractions and its range of beauty and body treatments includes polishes, purifying masks and therapeutic massage. Expert therapists have a holistic, haptic approach that aims to restore the body’s natural strength and beauty. ‘Chedi has its roots in Asia and we specifically hand-picked an Asian team to surprise our guests with an authentic experience,’ says Marc de Ruijter.

The sun shines almost all the year round, the surroundings are breathtaking, so it’s easy to see why every day is perfect at The Chedi Luštica Bay. ‘People don’t realise we’re at the same latitude as Barcelona,’ says Marc de Ruijter. ‘There is a misconception that the Balkans is about wind and snow, and rugged, dry terrain – it’s anything but when you come to the coastline. A perfect day, with the sun a very large guarantee, is about taking in the fresh air and the combination of the beautiful unspoilt Adriatic sea, right at the footsteps of the hotel, and the village, with the view of the mountains, where the snow is still sitting on top. That in itself is unusual and memorable.’

If you can tear yourself away from the hotel, a day trip to the mountains offers unique views of Luštica Bay and will ensure you work up a healthy appetite. Back at the hotel, Marc de Ruijter recommends enjoying some local seafood on the terrace at The Spot, before ending an idyllic day with a cocktail at the lobby bar, or even a massage at the spa.

The future of The Chedi Luštica Bay looks as bright as the weather. The hotel plans to complete the final parts of its events programme, working closely with Luštica Bay management to further enrich the town. For more details of some of this year’s highlights, take a look at our events diary on page 17 and our news section on page 25. The Rok beach bar hosts everything from live music to yoga mornings throughout the summer season. An inaugural aquathlon is due to take place in September 2019.

‘The good news for Luštica Bay is, with our 20-year plan and the number of square metres we still have to develop, we will never stop evolving. Every year will see an addition, something new and exciting to add to the overall offering,’ Marc de Ruijter explains.

EVERY DESIGN DETAIL of the elegant, minimalist interior has been carefully considered to achieve the very best Montenegrin experience for each guest

Development in the marina continues to go from strength to strength and enjoys a symbiotic relationship with the hotel and the rest of the town. ‘We welcome the beautiful yachts in our marina because it’s delightful to see them when you walk by – it’s an added value that goes both ways,’ says Marc de Ruijter.

The sum of all these parts – Luštica Bay, the hotel, the marina – will truly create an all-inclusive integrated resort experience, he says. ‘That’s not something most destinations can achieve. We work closely together to make sure our guests enjoy a seamless experience and I think this is our strength.’

It’s impossible to encapsulate the hotel in just a few words, but the idea of seamless, understated luxury underpins its offering. ‘Yes, we are very much a luxury destination, but we truly believe we are a destination for all – somewhere a visitor feels welcome. Friendliness and an open mind are synonymous with the Chedi brand and also with Luštica Bay.’