Ascending to New Heights

The morning sun cast a golden hue over the Bay of Kotor as I embarked on a journey that promised both adventure and introspection. The cable car ride, a swift ascent from 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level, was a metaphorical climb as much as a physical one. As the car glided upwards, the sprawling vistas of Kotor, Tivat, and the surrounding towns unfolded beneath me, each view a reminder of the vastness of the world and the smallness of my own existence within it.

The air grew crisper as we reached the summit, and I found myself reflecting on the journey that had brought me here—not just the cable car ride, but the path of self-discovery I had been on since my life took an unexpected turn. The mountains stood as silent witnesses to my thoughts, their ancient presence a comforting constant in a world of change.

A Taste of Tradition

Our next destination was the village of Njegusi, where Dragan, our guide, welcomed us into his family home. Here, tradition was not just preserved but lived, and I was invited to partake in it. The tasting of homemade prosciutto, cheese, wine, and brandy was more than a culinary experience; it was a journey into the heart of Montenegrin culture.

As Dragan explained the meticulous process of crafting each product, I was struck by the parallels to my own writing process—each word carefully chosen, each sentence crafted with intention. We lunched under the shade of grapevines, the sun filtering through leaves, casting dappled shadows on our table. It was a moment of peace, a pause in the relentless march of time, where the simple act of sharing a meal became a profound connection to the land and its people.

The Serpentine Road Back to Kotor

The return journey to Kotor was a winding descent along the serpentine road, each curve offering a new perspective on the bay below. We paused at several viewpoints, the landscape stretching out like a living canvas, each scene a testament to nature’s artistry.

As we wound our way back to the old town, Dragan shared stories of Kotor’s history, his voice weaving a tapestry of past and present. The old town itself was a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, each corner whispering secrets of a time long past. Walking through its narrow alleys, I felt a kinship with the city—a shared history of resilience and renewal.

This journey, like so many others, was a reminder of the beauty that lies in the unexpected, the joy of discovery, and the quiet moments of reflection that travel affords. As I left Kotor, I carried with me not just memories of breathtaking views and delicious flavors, but a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me.