Sutomore combines a 1,200-metre-long beach with an easy hiking trail to Haj-Nehaj Fortress. It also has 14th-century churches and architecture featuring stone and wrought-iron palaces. The town thus offers different facets of coastline, architectural history and hiking. Hotels and private accommodation are part of the tourist offer.
Beaches and Coastal Alternatives
Sutomore is known for its long sandy beach and lively summer atmosphere. The beach is 1,200 metres long and is described as organised, with clean water; water conditions may vary seasonally. Along the beach are restaurants, cafés, fast-food outlets and souvenir shops. This commercial offer may change. Entertainment is offered at the beach and in nearby restaurants; these offerings may also change.
Those interested in other types of beaches will find Ĺ trbine, a 100-metre-long pebble beach, not far from Sutomore. Ratac Beach is a naturist beach at Cape Ratac between Sutomore and Bar. Beach use and facilities may change. Ĺ trbine is a pebble beach, while Ratac is designated for naturist use.
Churches and History
Sutomore is associated with an early history of tourism. Its architectural character includes stone and wrought-iron palaces. To the west of Sutomore is the Church of St. Thecla, one kilometre from the sea. Built in the 14th century, it has both an Orthodox and a Catholic altar. A cemetery for members of both faiths lies in front of the church. The church and cemetery thus bring together two religious traditions in one place.
There are also older traces in the surrounding area: the remains of the Church of St. Roch near Sutomore date from the 14th century. On the shore at the end of Cape Ratac, between Bar and Sutomore, lie the remains of the 11th-century Benedictine monastery of Our Lady of Ratac.
Haj-Nehaj offers another perspective on the history of the area. There are the remains of a medieval town built in the 15th century. Haj-Nehaj was first mentioned in 1542; the Venetians built the site for defensive purposes. The fortress stands on a hill above the sea at an altitude of 225 metres. Its construction, first mention and purpose each tell a different part of its story.
Hiking and Getting Your Bearings
An easy 2.7-kilometre hiking trail leads from Sutomore to Haj-Nehaj Fortress. This offers a specific hiking option with a named destination alongside the beach. The route is described as easy; no walking time is given.
Sutomore has a tourist information office during the season. For the wider Bar–Sutomore region, connections with Podgorica, Bar and the Port of Bar are described via main roads and rail. This regional orientation complements the local beach and cultural themes with a broader view of the destination.
More to Explore in the Wider Bar Destination
The wider Bar destination lies between the Adriatic coast and Lake Skadar. Licensed operators organise boat trips on Lake Skadar; boats depart from places including Virpazar. The national park has nine marked hiking trails that visitors can follow independently with a map. Maps are available at the visitor centres in Virpazar and Vranjina.
For cyclists, the national park offers five cycling routes and two mountain bike trails; cycling routes start in places including Virpazar. Birdwatching is also possible there: it can be organised by boat or from the Stanaj observation tower, with booking at least one day in advance. These activities are part of the wider Bar destination and should be distinguished from Sutomore’s beaches and historic sites.
Discover more destinations: Gluhi Do, Miljevci, Zupci, Limljani, Pečurice, Bartula, Bar, Mišići
Back to the wider travel overview: Bar.
