Inside OneOnly Portonovi:
VAULT SECRETS FROM MONTENEGRO’S MOST LUXURIOUS STAY
As part of our Itinerary Vault series, we’re pulling back the curtain on one of the most talked-about resorts on the Adriatic coast: One&Only Portonovi. This isn’t a surface-level hotel roundup. It’s a field-tested, insider-backed breakdown of what it’s actually like to stay here, drawn from our own experience onsite and our behind the scenes site visit. If you’re considering this property—or just wondering if the splurge is worth it—this is the Say Yes official take.
What You Get When You Say Yes
unmatched luxury, uniquely yours
Travel perks that actually matter
Complimentary breakfast. Potential upgrades. Resort credits that buy more than just cocktails. These aren’t throw-ins—they’re curated to enhance the way you travel.
Planning that feels personal
We don’t guess what you might like—we ask. Then we build an itinerary that reflects your rhythm, your pace, your version of a perfect day (with just enough room for spontaneity).
Firsthand knowledge, not Google guesses
We’ve walked the properties. Sat by the pools. Talked to the concierges. That means you get the kind of insight that usually only comes from a friend who’s just been—and knows exactly what room to request and what time the spa is quietest.
THE EXPERIENCE
First Impressions and Arrival
From the moment you arrive, One&Only Portonovi sets the tone. Valets greet you at the entrance to help you with your bags. If you drove, they will also valet park your car- so hand over your keys and enjoy.
Check-in happens at a sitting area, not a counter, with a warm (or cold) towel (depending on the season), and a welcome drink that signals everything to come: calm, elevated, unhurried. The sitting area overlooks the properties’ garden and gives a beautiful view of the Bay. Your concierge will welcome you, give you an overview of the property, finish off some check-in procedures, before taking you to your room.
Our advice? Request a bay-facing room on an upper floor (or use a Travel Advisor, cough cough). The sunrise view alone will reset your nervous system. And if you’re arriving by boat—yes, that’s an option—ask to be dropped at the private jetty reserved exclusively for guests. And if you’re arriving by private transfer or boat—yes, both are options—ask to be dropped at the private jetty reserved exclusively for resort guests.
Don’t Forget: If you are celebrating something special, be sure to let the hotel know ahead of time - or your advisor will let them know. The hotel will try to add special touches to help you celebrate.
The Bayview rooms have an amazing view of the bay from both the balcony as well as the tub. I definitely had a bubble bath (or two) here.
The Rooms: Elevated, Not Overdone
Rooms and suites at One&Only Portonovi are everything you’d hope for—spacious, sun-soaked, and elegantly restrained. The design is rooted in local materials: pale stone, warm woods, and handcrafted textiles. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to terraces that make you forget what time it is. Bathrooms are spa-grade, with freestanding tubs, rain showers, and light that flatters everything.
It doesn’t feel like a hotel. It feels like a very stylish Montenegrin residence that just happens to have full butler service.
There are a total of 123 rooms - 2 villas, 10 private homes, and the suites and rooms. The main difference in the normal rooms and suites are the views- garden view v bay view.
Our advice? If you’re traveling as a family or group, the resort also offers connecting room options—a thoughtful detail that’s easy to overlook during booking. Larger parties or VIP travelers might consider the Villas set closer to the water, complete with dedicated outdoor spaces (including a grill!), elevated privacy, and private chef options available on request. There are also teen and children clubs for families, as well as event space rentals (I mean who wouldn’t want a wedding here??).
The bathroom is really the star of the show for the room. They have spa-level amenities, and if you get the Bayview room, they have an unreal view of the Bay. I wouldn’t mind getting ready here every day.
Chenot Espace Spa: More Than a Massage
You haven’t truly experienced the resort until you’ve spent time at Chenot Espace, a world-renowned wellness center integrated into the property. We didn’t experience the full Chenot Espace spa menu firsthand, but our site visit gave us a close look at the full wellness offering—and it's clear this is one of the resort’s crown jewels.
Chenot Espace isn’t your typical resort spa. It’s a state-of-the-art wellness center designed around longevity, detox, and total mind-body reset. The design is sleek and serene: pale stone, curved walls, soft lighting, and a stillness that invites you to move slower.
We did use the indoor pool, which is surrounded by glass walls and impossibly quiet. It’s designed for relaxation or lap swimming and feels more like a meditative retreat than a hotel amenity. The 24/7 fitness area is spacious, filled with top-tier Technogym equipment and light-filled stretching zones. For those interested in immersive experiences, Chenot offers medical-grade diagnostics, multi-day detox programs, and customized wellness journeys that include nutrition, hydrotherapy, and bio-energy testing.
Don’t Forget: Guests can use select facilities even without a booked treatment, so check availability upon arrival if you're spa-curious but not committing to a full package.
Our advice? Book treatments at least 48 hours in advance. The spa fills quickly, especially in peak season.
What we didn’t book—but what may interest long-term guests or guests coming during off or shoulder season—is the resort’s immersive health programs, ranging from detox weeks to full diagnostic evaluations. These are medically rooted, often incorporating nutrition planning, personalized treatments, and body composition analysis.
Dining: Elevated, Seasonal, Surprisingly Local
The food at One&Only Portonovi is a quiet triumph. Every meal feels intentional without being fussy. We dined at
Tapasake Club, a Japanese-Peruvian fusion-style restaurant withAdriatic views
Sabia by Giorgio Locatelli, where coastal Italian meets Michelin-level execution; and
La Veranda, which serves traditional Montenegrin and Mediterranean cuisine with an easygoing elegance. This is where breakfast is served and has an amazing view of the Bay. Be sure to grab a seat outside when the weather is nice to enjoy. Also try the ginger shot- it will hit you in the chest in the best way.
Our advice? Order a custom rakija-based cocktail from the Caminetti Bar. The bartender will create something tailored to your taste. It’s a quietly memorable moment that doesn’t appear on any menu. They also offer cigars and small bites.
Don’t Forget: You are right down the street from Portonovi, so be sure to also check out the resturants along the Marina as well.
Tapasake is such a fun experience. It is a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant that has amazing sushi and drinks! Sit outside for a beautiful view of the Bay (don’t worry they have heaters and blankets if it gets too cold).
Leisure, Lounging. the Quiet Luxury of Doing Nothing
The leisure spaces at One&Only Portonovi are curated with the same care as the spa and dining—and they’re just as impressive. There are four distinct pools on property, each with its own personality and purpose. The main infinity pool sits at the heart of the resort, with uninterrupted views of Boka Bay and full service that includes cold towels, fresh fruit, wellness shots, and the occasional misting of lavender water. It’s ideal for lounging all day and feels equally suited to couples, families, or solo unwinders.
Just beside Sabia restaurant, there’s a second, more intimate pool space perfect for a pre-lunch dip or relaxed post-spa sunning. It’s not widely advertised and rarely crowded, which makes it a hidden gem within the resort. Then there’s the adults-only heated pool—a secluded oasis with plush loungers and a quieter atmosphere. Heated even during summer months, it’s a surprising favorite for early morning swimmers or anyone seeking a moment of stillness away from the main scene. The fourth and final pool is indoors and equally as amazing.
The private beach is compact but well-kept, with manicured sand, swaying palms, and curated touches like high-end headphones, chilled sunscreen, and custom water blends. It’s a beach club without the crowds—and far more peaceful.
Throughout the day, you can borrow complimentary resort bikes to explore the Portonovi promenade, or arrange tennis lessons, personal training sessions, and guided yoga classes through the concierge.
Our Advice? If you are heading to other parts of Montenegro, be sure to talk to the front door staff, they’re amazing will give great recommendations. We had a car and were driving to Budva one day, they helped us navigate the ferry, gave us recommendations for where to eat and see in Budva and Kotor, and told us to just text them if we needed anything. THAT IS SERVICE.
Also, don’t miss the morning hours at the adults-only pool—the sun hits just right, the area is nearly empty, and the espresso service is flawless.
The Departure
Now you would think departure is nothing special….wrong. Not only do they bring your bags down and everything, but they send you off with some (delicious) chocolate chip cookies and a bottle of water.
We will definitely be back….
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
TIMING
Timing matters at One&Only Portonovi. The resort shifts dramatically depending on the season—both in vibe and in price.
High season runs from June through September, when the property is in full bloom: buzzing pool scenes, warm evenings, and every dining venue at full service. But with that comes premium pricing—expect significantly higher room rates, limited availability, and a resort at near full occupancy. Book early if you’re eyeing this window.
Shoulder season—late April to early June and late September into October—is ideal if you’re looking for fewer crowds, more personalized service, and more flexible pricing. Many experiences (spa, pools, dining) are still fully available, and the weather often surprises you with Mediterranean perfection.
Off-season months (November through March) bring a slower, quieter pace. Not everything operates at full capacity, but if you’re drawn to peace, wellness, and stormy sea views with fireplace wine vibes—it might be your dream season.
HOW TO GET THERE
One&Only Portonovi is located in the town of Herceg Novi, directly on the shores of Boka Bay. It’s surprisingly accessible:
Tivat Airport (TIV): 45-minute drive. The closest and most convenient for coastal arrivals.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): 1.5–2 hours with a border crossing. A popular option with more frequent international flights.
Podgorica Airport (TGD): ~2 hours. Best if you’re combining with Lake Skadar or interior Montenegro.
Transfers can be arranged through the resort, with a private driver, or your own rental car (highly recommended). You can also arrive by private yacht via the resort’s jetty.
ADDITIONAL PERKS
Book with Us & Get Added Perks
As trusted travel advisors, we offer exclusive benefits when you book One&Only Portonovi through us, including:
Room upgrade (subject to availability)
Daily breakfast for two
$100 resort credit
Early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability)
A welcome gift
Reach out to us to reserve your stay and access perks you won’t get by booking online.
Our Final Take: Is It Worth It?
If you’re considering One&Only Portonovi as the anchor of your Montenegro itinerary: yes, it’s absolutely worth it. But don’t just “stay” here—experience it. Ask questions. Linger in the spa. Take your espresso slow. Watch the bay change colors from morning to midnight.
Because what this resort does best isn’t just luxury—it’s presence. And in a place as rich with light, history, and natural stillness as Boka Bay, that’s everything.
Insider tip: Before you leave, take a moment at the water’s edge behind the spa. There’s a quiet bench, hidden from view, where the resort’s soundscape fades and the real Montenegro speaks. We stayed for an hour. You might stay longer.
