Hotel La mer

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Hotel La Mer? The way the staff actually remembers your name after day one – not in that forced, corporate training way, but like they genuinely care you’re there. I mean, it’s a solid four-star place with an 8.5 rating, so I went in with decent expectations, but honestly, the little touches caught me off guard. The lobby has this warm, lived-in feeling with these gorgeous worn leather chairs that look like they’ve hosted a thousand great conversations. And the smell – it’s this subtle mix of sea salt and something floral, maybe jasmine? – that just makes you want to linger.

The rooms are what I’d call thoughtfully comfortable rather than flashy. Sure, the bathroom could use a refresh (the tiles are showing their age a bit), but the bed is absolutely perfect – firm enough that you don’t sink into oblivion but soft enough that you’re out cold within minutes. What really got me though was the view situation. Even if you don’t spring for an ocean-facing room, you’ll catch glimpses of water from most windows, and honestly, waking up to that sliver of blue between buildings never gets old. The housekeeping team works like ninjas – I swear they slip in and out without disturbing anything, but somehow your towels are always perfectly folded and they leave these tiny shell-shaped soaps that smell incredible.

Here’s the thing about La Mer that you won’t find in the glossy brochures – it sits in this sweet spot where you’re close enough to walk to all the action (maybe ten minutes to the main drag where all the restaurants cluster), but far enough back that you’re not dealing with street noise all night. I’m usually a light sleeper, but I slept like a rock there. The breakfast spread is surprisingly good too – none of that sad continental stuff. They do this local fish dish that changes based on what’s fresh, and their coffee actually tastes like coffee, not hotel water. Check-in was smooth, parking is included (which is huge in this area, trust me), and the concierge guy – Miguel, I think? – knows absolutely everything about the local scene. He steered me toward this tiny tapas place that doesn’t even have a sign, and it ended up being the best meal of my trip. Would I go back? Definitely. It’s one of those places that just gets hospitality right without trying too hard.

Budva’s hotels showcase the perfect blend of Mediterranean charm and modern comfort, with many featuring sea view terraces and traditional Montenegrin hospitality.

Facilities