THE ADDRESS Magazine No.20 | Page 375

and alpine plains line glaciers spliced by rivers and underground streams. In spring, fewer tourists, glorious warmth and quaint pathways are fringed by bold blue sea and flanked by fresh clean air. Home to the ultra-glamorous Aman Sveti Stefan resort on its own island off the bay of Sveti Stefan, where tennis ace Novak Djokovic was married, the Balkan nation has been earmarked by several luxury brands, with new hotel openings expected from 2016. The Unescoprotected Bay of Kotor is in the running to be crowned Europe’s leading marina, berthing superyachts of the super-rich, who have long holidayed in peace in Montenegro. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike and kayak around Lake Skadar, dotted with remote beaches, unique ancient island monasteries and imposing stone churches whispering a historical lullaby. Forza Mare Hotel is set on a hillside on the bay of Kotor, with it’s own private beach, watersports and spa. Its location makes it ideally placed to wander the nucleus of museums, palaces and monuments in the historic old town. For history buffs, this old town of Kotor is one of the bestpreserved medieval sites in the Mediterranean and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. www.theaddressmagazine.com 14. Malta Malta is undergoing something of a renaissance. Located just 96 km south of Sicily, temperate climates are attracting visitors to the charming tiny island nation. Traditional architecture and a rich history make it an enticing wonder, dotted with ancient temples, hidden alcoves and brilliant beaches. Restaurants spoil for choice with Arabic, Sicilian and Greek on offer. And the beaches offer something for everyone. The quaint towns of St Pauls and Mdina offer a wealth of prehistoric attractions and pretty horsedrawn carriages transport guests through the maze of alleyways. Culture-lovers will adore the attractions of capital city Valletta, including operas, poetry and pantomime. The people have a gentle unassuming nature and are very warm and welcoming. Multiculturalism is a major aspect of Malta’s DNA, infused into the language and food. A mustvisit is Hal Saflieni Hypogeum, a 5000-year-old underground necropolis carved into rock. The Relais & Chateux Xara Palace is distinguished as the epitome of luxury, whilst retaining the familyrun feel. Tucked away in the medieval city of Mdina, perched on centuries-old bastions and carved in baroque style, this 381