Springtime is one of the most remarkable times of year to visit Kotor. The distant mountaintops may still reflect some snow while down on the Bay of Kotor we’re enjoying short-sleeved shirts, sunny coffee drinking sessions outside and light jackets in the evenings. The earliest risers enjoy the symphony of birds that make up our city’s soundtrack and tourists pour into our city each day, hailing from every corner of the world.
It’s no wonder two top athletic competitions have created local editions, right here in Montenegro.
The first is Ocean Lava Montenegro, an annual half Ironman triathlon competition returning to Kotor for its fourth year, and X-Waters Montenegro, is a Russian all-swim competition held across Europe that will debut in Kotor for the first time.
Ocean Lava Montenegro
Sunday, May 12th, 2019
Family-Friendly Event
The popular Ocean Lava Montenegro has sold every spot for competing athletes this year. Gearing up for year four here, the race organized by Kotor’s own Igor Majer, has quickly gained momentum and plenty of attention across the continent.
The half Ironman competition attracts sportists from near and far to swim 1.9k, bike 90k and run for 21k. Though the organizer himself has competed in half Ironman and Ironman competitions around the world, the competition’s motto welcomes everyone from beginners to the most seasoned athletes: “It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about passion”.
In fact, children are invited to compete in the special KIDS Race the day before the main event. Bring your little ones out on Saturday, May 11th for 150m (0-3 years), 400m (4-7 years) and 800m (8-12 years) races. The 5 euro registration fee is donated to charity.
As for Sunday’s activities, view the race in front of the Old Town’s walls or atop our city’s walls at Restaurant Citadel, above Cattaro Hotel. Part of Cattaro Complex, you may enjoy a meal or beverages while viewing the action below.
X-Waters Montenegro
Saturday, May 18th, 2019
Family-Friendly Event
Meanwhile, X-Waters Montenegro focuses on the water. Competing participants will arrive from around Europe to swim in our inviting waters. However, this race begins and ends in the nearby coastal town of Risan, part of the region of Kotor and situated on the same bay.
There are 7 km, 4.5 km and 1 nautical mile races, in addition to children’s races (50m and 200m).
Kotor Bay is one of many stops for X-Waters Montenegro this spring and summer, including Malta, St. Petersburg, Lake Baikal, Turgoyak Lake (South Urals) and Austria’s Wörthersee Lake.
Risan is a 15-20 minute drive from Cattaro Hotel.
Making it an overnight trip? Whether you’re in town to watch the festivities or to compete on your own, why not stay at Cattaro Hotel? Cattaro Hotel is conveniently located for easy, restorative evenings in Kotor. Let us host you within the UNESCO-protected walls of Kotor’s Old Town in our historic boutique hotel. Call or email us today: +382 32 311 000 | +382 67 209 847 | +382 67 209 847 (Viber) | CattaroHotel@t-com.me.