Island of Stones: Rowing to Our Lady of the Rocks in the Bay of Kotor
A short boat hop to a man-made island where maritime faith and limestone geometry meet
You first see it from the sea: a precise, pale tear in the water crowned by a low, white church and the silhouette of a bell tower. Boats cut through glassy fjord-blue, gulls wheel and the limestone cliffs of the Bay of Kotor close like bookends. Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Skrpjela) sits off the tiny, baroque-lined town of Perast as if placed there deliberately—a perfectly human punctuation on a landscape that otherwise reads as ancient geology and slow tide. Stepping ashore is less a tourist arrival than a small pilgrimage: you climb a handful of worn stone steps and enter a chapel filled with votive offerings, maritime paintings, and a hush that stills conversation.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive early for calm waters
Morning crossings are quieter and smoother—this makes for easier landings and cleaner photos.
Wear grippy shoes
Stone steps and wet landing areas are slippery; closed-toe shoes with good traction are essential.
Reserve Fašinada spots if attending
If you plan to experience the July 22 Fašinada, book a boat early—space is limited and demand spikes.
Respect the chapel
Observe quiet inside the church and follow any posted rules about photography and touching artifacts.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Climb Perast’s small back streets for quiet views of old stone courtyards and maritime plaques
- •Visit the Maritime Museum in Perast to see ship models and local seafaring artifacts that contextualize the island’s history
Wildlife
Mediterranean gulls, cormorants and shorebirds
Conservation Note
Tourism is concentrated and fragile; support licensed local skippers and avoid leaving trash ashore—participation in Fašinada underscores community stewardship of the island.
Our Lady of the Rocks is a man-made island created over centuries by Perast’s sailors who sank old ships and deposited stones after finding a Madonna icon in 1452; the annual Fašinada ceremony continues this tradition.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wildflower coastal views, mild boat rides
Challenges: occasional rain, cool mornings, shorter daylight
Spring brings mild weather and fewer tourists—ideal for photographers and those seeking a quieter experience, though occasional showers are possible.
summer
Best for: stable weather, long daylight, full museum hours
Challenges: peak crowds, higher temperatures, busy piers
Summer is busiest and warmest, offering the most scheduled boat departures and open sites; expect more visitors and plan for sun protection.
fall
Best for: golden light for photos, cooler crowds, comfortable walking
Challenges: shortening days, some seasonal closures, variable weather
Autumn provides dramatic light and thinning crowds—great for photography and relaxed visits, with cooler evenings on the water.
winter
Best for: peaceful solitude, dramatic skies, off-season rates
Challenges: reduced boat service, colder water temperatures, limited museum hours
Winter visits are quiet and atmospheric but require planning around limited boat schedules and potential closures of the museum and chapel.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Grippy soles handle wet stone steps and uneven paths on island and in Perast.
Light waterproof jacket
Wind and sudden showers are common along the bay—layering keeps you comfortable.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Hydration is key when touring in sun and salt air; bring a bottle to reduce plastic waste.
Sun protection (hat & SPF)Essential
The low island offers little shade; protect skin and eyes during boat rides and on the quay.
Common Questions
How do I get to Our Lady of the Rocks?
Boats leave regularly from Perast’s waterfront; private skiffs and scheduled shuttle boats make the 5–10 minute crossing. If you’re staying in Kotor, drive or take a taxi to Perast (20–30 minutes).
How long should I plan for the visit?
A typical visit lasts 1–2 hours total: a short boat ride, 30–60 minutes on the island to see the chapel and museum, plus time to stroll Perast if desired.
Is the island wheelchair accessible?
No—access involves boarding small boats and climbing stone steps ashore; the island is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
Can I photograph inside the church?
Photography rules vary; many visitors take photos outside, but inside rules may restrict flash or close-up images of artifacts—follow posted guidelines and staff requests.
What is Fašinada?
Fašinada is an annual July 22 tradition when locals take boats laden with rocks to reinforce the island—an intimate, community-driven ritual that’s not a tourist spectacle but can be observed if you join a local boat.
Are there food options near the island?
Perast has several seaside konobas and cafes where you can have fresh seafood or light meals before or after your island visit; in peak season, reserve a table for lunch.
What to Pack
sturdy walking shoes for slippery stone steps, sun hat and SPF for reflective water, refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and cut plastic, light rain shell for sudden showers
Did You Know
Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island formed by generations of Perast sailors who sank ships and piled stones after discovering a Madonna icon in 1452; the Fašinada ceremony on July 22 commemorates and continues this practice.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy boat tickets at Perast pier to avoid lines, arrive early for better light and calmer water, bring cash for small local purchases as some vendors prefer it, combine island visit with Perast museum and a seaside lunch
Local Flavor
Perast’s waterfront is lined with family-run konobas serving grilled fish, local wines, and simple Adriatic dishes—pair the island visit with a slow seafood lunch to taste the bay’s culture.
Logistics Snapshot
From Perast pier: 5–10 minute boat ride; typical visit 1–2 hours; not wheelchair accessible; book boats during peak season; respect chapel rules.
Sustainability Note
Choose licensed local operators, carry out any trash, and avoid single-use plastics—participation in local rituals like Fašinada reflects community stewardship of fragile coastal sites.