montenegro

Tucked away at the bottom of Croatia, Montenegro used to be the region's best-kept secret. After formally announcing independence from Serbia in 2006, the newest country in Europe is now one of the former Yugoslavia's holiday hotspots - and it's easy to see why.

The Montenegrin coastline is bursting with stunning beaches and tranquil holiday towns and the jewel in the crown is the breathtaking Boka Kotorska bay, where the crystal clear waters and laid-back lifestyle mean that you can't help but relax.

Budva is the area's best-known resort, and the stretch of coastline surrounding it is home to some of the best beaches in Montenegro, as well as the famous millionaire's playground of Sveti Stefan. In recent years, the country has experienced something of a tourist boom, but still remains unspoilt enough to provide the perfect after-Exit wind-down.