Banyan Tree Makes Its European Debut with Montenegro’s Mamula Island Resort
This opening marks the luxury hospitality brand’s first resort in Europe.
Mamula Island by Banyan Tree. Photos: Courtesy of the Banyan Group
The Banyan Group has officially opened Mamula Island by Banyan Tree, just in time for the summer season, marking the luxury hospitality brand’s first resort in Europe.
Located on a private island at the entrance to the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, the intimate 32-key property is housed in a restored 19th-century fortress overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The resort is operating under the Banyan Tree brand for its first full season.
Originally built in the 1850s as a coastal defense fortification, the property underwent a seven-year restoration led by developer Samih Sawiris in collaboration with Lisbon-based MCM Architecture & Design, Montenegrin architecture studio Projektor, and local heritage authorities. The restoration preserves many of the fortress’s original architectural features while introducing contemporary interiors that incorporate local craftsmanship, natural stone, oak, aged brass, and custom-designed furnishings.
Guests arrive via private boat transfer across the Bay of Kotor or by helicopter from Dubrovnik or Tivat. All accommodations offer Adriatic Sea views, with Heritage Suites located within the original fortress and newer rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces.
The property’s culinary program highlights Montenegrin ingredients and locally sourced seafood across four venues, while the newly introduced Banyan Tree Spa brings the brand’s signature wellness concept to Europe. Located within the historic fortress tower, the spa offers hydrotherapy facilities, flotation experiences, thermal areas, and treatments inspired by local botanicals alongside traditional Asian healing therapies.
Beyond the resort, guests can explore Montenegro’s coastline by kayak, paddleboard, water bike, or e-bike. Curated excursions include the Bay of Kotor, the Blue Cave, Kotor Old Town, Skadar Lake, and the Luštica Peninsula.
The resort also places a strong emphasis on cultural programming, with a new Artists-in-Residence initiative featuring workshops, exhibitions, live performances, and the Operosa Music Festival. Mamula Island by Banyan Tree is also available for exclusive buyouts for weddings, retreats, and private events.
