Montenegro

Everyone falls for Montenegro. It is a small country but one of incredible diversity, where great mountains plunge to a 293km coastline of sheltered bays and azure seas. Its incredible walled towns have so much to explore and the pretty seaside villages are perfect for relaxing. The highlight of the coast is the stunning Venetian Boka Kotorska, Europe's most southerly fjord. Lord Byron was one of the visitors enchanted by the beauty of Europe's newest country, enthusing: "At the moment of birth of our planet, the most beautiful meeting of land and sea took place on the Montenegrin coast."

Inland are four designated national parks: Skadar Lake, the largest in the Balkans; Lovcen, mountain home of the former capital Cetinje; Biogradska Gora, a virgin forest and nature reserve; and the mountainous Durmitor, with its many lofty peaks and magnificent Tara Canyon, the deepest in Europe and 80km in length. Montenegro's Constitution stipulates the country's commitment to protect and preserve its natural heritage. UNESCO World Heritage protection has been granted to the Tara River Gorge, Durmitor National Park and the medieval town of Kotor.

The coastal region of Montenegro enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long dry summers and short winters. The great selection of fresh fruit and vegetables available is almost all organically grown. Montenegro also produces a very drinkable red wine, Vranac, which goes nicely with the delicious locally produced cheeses, olives and prosciutto-style ham.

Montenegro really does have it all! Unsurprisingly the 'World Travel and Tourism Council' has identified the country as having the fastest growing travel and tourism market in the world.