Montenegro’s rising appeal for team building and weddings

Montenegro’s rising reputation as a team-building destination is fuelled by its stunning variety of landscapes and activities. “Demand for team-building events has grown substantially in recent years,” says Branka Vujanović, owner of the Coast Weddings & Events agency in Montenegro. “Companies are increasingly drawn to the combination of natural beauty, luxury accommodations, and diverse activities, especially after the pandemic heightened the focus on team connection and mental well-being.”

The country offers a playground for organisations of all sizes, with activities ranging from hiking in the Durmitor mountains to kayaking in the Bay of Kotor. Culinary workshops with Montenegrin specialties have also become a favourite amongst international companies, offering a fun way to spark creativity and camaraderie.

Audra Smith, people operations manager at Scentbird, recently participated at a team-building event with her global team in Portonovi, a luxury resort in the Bay of Kotor. For her, Montenegro was the perfect choice. “Our remote company has team members in over 30 countries,” she says. “Montenegro’s central location and its secretive, unspoiled appeal made it an ideal destination.”

Their experience at Portonovi exceeded expectations, she adds. “The locals were kind and accommodating, and the resort was nothing short of dreamy. We balanced adventure – like ziplining and canyoning – with relaxation at the Portonovi Beach Club,” Smith shares.

The IT sector, pharmaceutical firms, and consulting companies are amongst the industries most frequently organising team buildings in Montenegro, according to Vujanović. Most of them come from Germany, France, and the UK, she adds, but interest is growing from Serbia, Croatia, and even the United States.

A growing magnet for destination weddings

The same picturesque landscapes that captivate corporate teams also make Montenegro a magnet for couples planning destination weddings. Over the past three years, Vujanović notes a 30% rise in bookings for international weddings. Last year, her company organised over 25 weddings for international couples, marking a notable increase compared to previous years.

“Landscapes like the Bay of Kotor and historic towns such as Kotor and Herceg Novi play a crucial role in attracting couples,” says Vujanović. “Many decide on Montenegro after seeing photos of its dramatic coastlines and medieval charm.”

Couples tend to choose outdoor ceremonies with sweeping sea views, often incorporating Montenegrin traditions such as local music and cuisine. But modern touches aren’t left behind. “Most couples prefer a cultural fusion – a blend of contemporary elegance with authentic Montenegrin elements,” Vujanović explains.

The country’s affordability compared to Western European destinations is another advantage. Luxury resorts like Aman Sveti Stefan or Portonovi rival the opulence of the Côte d’Azur but come at a more accessible price point.

Opportunities and challenges

Despite its growing appeal, Montenegro still faces challenges in catering to international expectations. Limited direct flights and local vendors still adapting to global standards can complicate logistics. Vujanović emphasises the need for more conference centres and investments in sustainable tourism to boost Montenegro’s reputation further.

Still, the country’s charm lies in its authenticity and the personalised experiences it offers. From post-wedding boat tours in the Bay of Kotor to corporate workshops in scenic mountain lodges, Montenegro’s ability to blend adventure with sophistication makes it stand out.

As Smith puts it: “Montenegro has us wanting to return – not just for the beauty, but for the memories we created there.”

With global trends favouring employee well-being and unique wedding experiences, Montenegro is well-positioned to capture the hearts of adventurers and romantics alike.