On our recent adventure through Montenegro, we did something that felt straight out of a fairytale—we visited an island that was literally built by hand. Yep, you read that right. Built. By. Hand.
We stopped at Our Lady of the Rocks during our Blue Cave boat tour, and WOW—what a surreal experience. Imagine cruising through the serene Bay of Kotor, pulling up to this tiny, picturesque island… and then seeing a church perched right in the middle of the water. It’s like something out of a dream.
But the story behind it? Even better.
Legend has it that local sailors discovered an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea way back in the 15th century. After that, every time they returned safely from a voyage, they’d drop rocks into the bay as an offering. Over the centuries—yes, centuries—these small gestures turned into something incredible: a manmade island. Talk about dedication!
Today, Our Lady of the Rocks is not only a symbol of faith but a peaceful escape with stunning views of the mountains and coastline. Inside the church, you’ll find beautiful artwork, intricate tapestries, and that calm, reflective atmosphere that makes you want to just pause and soak it all in.
For our family, it was the perfect stop. The boys loved hopping off the boat and having a mini adventure of their own—while I stole a few moments to enjoy the rare stillness. ✨
🛥️ How to Visit Our Lady of the Rocks
Most people visit Our Lady of the Rocks as part of a Blue Cave boat tour, which usually departs from towns like Kotor, Perast, or Tivat. The tour typically includes:
A stop at the island (around 20–30 minutes to explore) A visit to the nearby Blue Cave (where you can swim!) Passes by the submarine tunnels, Mamula Island, and more
You can book a group tour for a budget-friendly option or go for a private boat if you want more flexibility (ideal for families with younger kids).
💡 Tip: Make sure your tour allows enough time to get off and explore the island—some cheaper tours just circle it!
👨👩👦 Visiting with Kids
I wasn’t sure how the boys would feel about a church in the middle of the water—but they LOVED it. The excitement of the boat ride, hopping onto the tiny island, and exploring the steps and open spaces made it feel like a mini adventure.
What worked well for us:
Snacks + water: Always a must when traveling with kids, especially when the island has limited facilities. Sun hats + sunscreen: There’s not a lot of shade, so prep ahead! Quick explainer: Before we arrived, I gave the boys a fun version of the legend behind the island, which made the visit feel more like a treasure hunt than a history lesson.
It’s a short and sweet stop, which is just right for little ones—just enough to pique their curiosity without wearing them out.
📌 Travel Tips for Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks
✅ Bring cash – If you want to go inside the church museum, there’s a small entry fee (usually just a couple of euros).
✅ Timing matters – Morning tours tend to be less crowded and cooler, which is ideal if you’re visiting during the hotter summer months.
✅ Don’t skip Perast – The island sits just off the beautiful town of Perast, which is also worth wandering through either before or after your tour. Quiet, charming, and full of old-world magic.
✅ Photography lovers – This spot is a dream for anyone who loves capturing views, textures, and scenic backdrops. Don’t forget your camera or phone (and maybe a portable charger too).
This was honestly one of those stops that felt both peaceful and awe-inspiring—a rare combo when traveling with toddlers! Montenegro continues to surprise us, and Our Lady of the Rocks is a shining example of the country’s rich history and natural beauty rolled into one unforgettable experience.
✍️ Add this to your Montenegro itinerary—you won’t regret it!
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