BY ROYAUME
November 2026
A monumental brass-ring chandelier suspended above velvet upholstery and textured glass panels. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
On the sheltered, fjord-like shores of Boka Bay in Kumbor, One&Only Portonovi stands as the ultra-luxury brand’s inaugural European crown jewel—a five-star coastal palace that opened in May 2021 to redefine the Adriatic landscape. Before welcoming jet-set yachtsmen and high-net-worth travelers, the 26-hectare site carried a centuries-long military legacy, evolving from an Austro-Hungarian and Cold War naval stronghold into an enclave transformed by a landmark €1 billion master-planned regeneration led by Azmont Investments. Situated at the entrance throat of a UNESCO World Heritage region historically shaped by Venetian Republic rule and Ottoman influence, the low-density estate converts historical military grounds into an architectural sanctuary that offers a formidable alternative to the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast.
The resort’s physical shell was masterminded by legendary architect Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston, who approached the footprint through three strict pillars: luxury, space, and privacy. Gathy harmonized the region's complex geo-cultural heritage into a neoclassical triad of structural forms—borrowing symmetry, soaring colonnades, and grand archways from 16th-century Venetian palazzos in nearby Perast and Kotor, blending fluid Turkish and Ottoman arches through the central wellness wings, and grounding the facades with heavy, hand-carved Slav stone masonry under gabled terracotta roofs. Framing a private manmade sandy beach and a sleek 238-berth superyacht marina, the resulting low-rise pavilions read less like a contemporary hotel and more like an enduring collection of historic seaside palaces.
Complementing Gathy’s structural volumes, global design studio Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA)—spearheaded by Paula O’Callaghan—curated the interior architecture around a concept of "modern monastic architecture". Rejecting sterile minimalism, HBA utilized voluminous vaulted ceilings, time-worn raw materials, and deeply layered textile textures to establish an ambiance of quiet grandeur. Specialized sub-studios perfected the microscopic details: HBA Art directed local boulder sculptures and backlit forest-depicting columns, Light Directions engineered warm, glowing transitions from daylit sea terraces to ambient evening settings, and social dining spaces were elevated with rich walnut millwork, supple leather upholstery, and hand-forged copper accents.
Arrival at the estate’s central palazzo serves as a cinematic entry ritual, whether approaching by private yacht crossing across the fjord or by helicopter. Stepping into the double-height lobby, double-barrel-vaulted platinum ceilings inlaid with intricate Maya Romanoff wood marquetry soar over polished Grigio marble floors and monumental stone walls, perfectly framing the azure waters and jagged cliffs of Boka Bay through floor-to-ceiling glass. Suspended overhead, a magnificent custom canopy of hand-blown amber glass petals fixed to intertwining brass branches mimics Montenegro’s national mimosa tree, floating above a raw, jagged boulder sculpture carved to represent the theatrical Montenegrin topography. Guests step through these grand interior volumes directly onto open-air marble terraces overlooking the infinity pools, private sandy cove, and the dramatic Adriatic fjord.
The Timber Boudoir
Vertical channel-tufted velvet paneling and rich woven textiles anchoring a calm, low-profile suite. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
The accommodations at One&Only Portonovi serve as a masterclass in residential grandeur, encompassing a total key count of 123 sanctuaries divided into 105 guestrooms, 6 grand suites, and 12 ultraluxe private standalone villas. Guided by a philosophy of "residential opulence," interior masterminding by Paula O’Callaghan of Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) shuns sterile minimalism in favor of quiet architectural depth. Spaces are anchored around voluminous barrel-vaulted ceilings, textured wood veneer wallcoverings, bespoke metalwork, and raw stone masonry that celebrates local Balkan heritage.
Within the private bedrooms, design focuses intensely on tactile texture and symmetry. Beds are framed by customized, towering accent headboards dressed in heavy linen, plush velvet, and antique brass details, set against a sophisticated palette of soft platinum-grey, warm sand, and earthy terracottas. Every bedroom extends seamlessly onto deep, covered decks and private stone terraces with plush lounge seating, ensuring that the first sight upon waking is the majestic silhouette of Montenegrin mountains reflecting across the fjord.
To cultivate an atmosphere of uncompromised intimacy, HBA layered each room with bespoke millwork, concealed mood lighting, and hand-loomed textiles that soften the grand architectural scale. Intricate brass detailing and subtle geometric patterns subtly reference traditional Montenegrin motifs, creating a quiet sensory rhythm where acoustic calm, natural light, and artisanal craftsmanship converge into a serene personal retreat.
The Cantilevered Oasis
A sculptural freestanding soaking vessel mirrored against polished dark stone and expansive waterfront fenestration. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
Engineered to rival the bedrooms in sheer scale and presence, the bathrooms across the resort are treated not merely as utility spaces, but as personal, deep-relaxation wellness lounges. Clad entirely in premium Grigio marble or dark travertine, these wash sanctuaries feature monumental double vanities, massive walk-in rain showers, and high-tech Swiss automatic toilets. The architectural focal points are monolithic, deep-soaking bathtubs and whirlpools positioned directly against dramatic, corner glass windows that frame uninterrupted vistas of the Adriatic sea.
Elevating the bath into a sensory lounge ritual, HBA integrated cushioned daybeds that sit flush with the bathtubs and floor-to-ceiling windows. This brilliant spatial configuration allows a seamless transition from an immersive soak to reclining on a daybed while watching sunlight dance across the fjord. Coupled with understated copper fixtures and warm architectural backlighting, every wash space offers an unhurried, deeply atmospheric sanctuary.
The Connoisseur’s Salon
Low-slung modular sectionals and fluted timber detailing surrounding a central stone hearth. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
In the suites and multi-bedroom villas, living rooms function as massive architectural showpieces designed for grand hosting and private relaxation. Main salons open entirely through retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors onto expansive outdoor terraces, featuring high-polished Italian marble floors and bespoke bar counters wrapped in rich leather upholstery and warm walnut millwork. The glowing centerpiece of almost every living area is a sleek, modern open-flame glass fireplace, intentionally engineered to infuse the spaces with residential warmth during cooler Adriatic winter evenings. Among these, elite hideaways like Suite One elevate the experience further with unique private amenities, including a custom 268-bottle wine cellar built directly into the room architecture.
At the absolute pinnacle of the estate sit Villa One, Villa Two, and the highly exclusive Signature Villas—specifically Orjen, Lovćen, and Rumija, named in homage to the three dramatic mountain ranges that loom over the Adriatic basin. Architectural defiance defines these domains through fluid indoor-outdoor floor plans dedicated to sweeping bay vistas, complemented by super-yacht accoutrements such as private entryways, manicured beachfronts, and dedicated private jetties that allow guests arriving by sea to step directly off a vessel into their villa grounds. Villa One reigns supreme with a staggering 463 square meters of interior space, vast shorefront gardens, a private hydrotherapy pool, a personal cinema, and dedicated butler quarters.
Reflecting on the overarching vision that binds these living spaces and private estates together, lead designer Paula O’Callaghan noted that the interiors represent "a modern expression inspired by medieval monastic architecture, using understated luxury to frame the unadulterated nature of Boka Bay." This ethos extends seamlessly into the exclusive collection of Three- and Four-Bedroom One&Only Private Homes. Operating as independent waterfront residences with private pools and secluded sandy coves, these contemporary architectural masterpieces allow long-term residents full, uninhibited access to the resort's broader ecosystem—including the Chenot Espace medical spa, private marina, and signature dining venues.
The Cordoned Atelier
Sculptural wire-cage lighting and rich teal drapery set against a dark timber slatted ceiling. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
The culinary landscape at One&Only Portonovi functions as a high-art tapestry of international flavors, structured around signature à la carte destinations that shun generic resort dining in favor of a glamorous Riviera lifestyle. Rooted deeply in the agrarian traditions of the Balkan coast, the estate champions an uncompromising farm-to-table and sea-to-plate philosophy, partnering with multi-generational family-owned organic farms in the neighboring Montenegrin hills. On-site micro-gardens provide hyper-fresh garnishes while drawing upon artisanal producers for hand-stretched mozzarella and day-boat crudo, establishing a clean culinary counterweight to the resort’s wellness offerings.
Shaping this marquee dining profile is world-renowned, Michelin-starred Chef Giorgio Locatelli, whose vision effortlessly bridges his native Italian heritage with the raw terroir of the Balkans. Reflecting on this gastronomic synthesis, Chef Locatelli noted: "Following the seasons and finding the best recipe for the ingredients you have at your disposal is essential... Many traditional dishes of Montenegro's Adriatic coast have a distinctively Italian influence... I’m very excited to bring my own heritage together with a local Montenegrin twist." This philosophy comes alive across the property's premier venues, from Sabia by Giorgio Locatelli—a refined Southern Italian and seafood sanctuary featuring an integrated raw bar, open show kitchen, and sunset-facing terrace—to La Veranda, an open-concept Montenegrin grill celebrating local open-coal cooking against a backdrop of laser-cut Carrara marble and indigo walls.
Elevating this gastronomic journey further, the resort offers immersive culinary curation designed for the discerning traveler. Guests can engage in private masterclasses, learning to craft traditional Montenegrin dishes or fine Southern Italian pasta alongside elite resident chefs, or arrange bespoke private dining experiences on the secluded sandy beach. At Tapasake Club, the high-energy heartbeat of the estate, contemporary Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei fusion, sushi, and sake flow seamlessly by day, transforming into a vibrant waterside lounge framed by a massive reflection pool and private cabanas.
The Nocturne Apothecary
Warm walnut millwork and amber-lit vitrines framed by rust-toned walls and curved armchairs. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
As day surrenders to twilight, the resort's social lounges and bars transition into atmospheric venues dedicated to rare vintages, global mixology, and sophisticated nocturnal camaraderie. At the heart of the estate, Caminetti Bar & Lounge provides an intimate, regal setting structured beneath barrel-vaulted wood marquetry ceilings. Designed as an architectural haven during cooler evening hours, the space is anchored by a striking burnt terracotta bar counter wrapped in fine leather upholstery and rich walnut millwork, illuminated by an olive-branch-inspired chandelier and glowing backlit forest-art columns.
The beverage program celebrates the region's rich artisanal heritage alongside world-class international spirits, offering rare sommelier-guided wine journeys and exclusive masterclasses in Rakija—the potent, traditional Balkan fruit brandy. Flanked by deep-seated residential sofas, custom armchairs, and monolithic fireplaces wrapped in grey shagreen leather and antique brass, guests indulge in artisanal loose-leaf teas, rare champagnes, and handcrafted small-batch cocktails. Whether enjoying a vintage digestif by the roaring hearth or sipping bespoke libations on the moonlit terrace overlooking the tranquil Boka Bay, the bar programming delivers an unhurried, deeply romantic conclusion to the evening.
The Colonnaded Sanctum
Monolithic travertine arcades and glowing ombre alcoves reflected in a subterranean lap pool. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
Anchoring the resort’s health philosophy is Chenot Espace, a sprawling 4,000-square-meter scientific medical sanctuary that completely redefines traditional hotel relaxation. Envisioned by Hirsch Bedner Associates as a modern monastic retreat, the architectural interior unfolds through soaring vaulted brick arcades, silver travertine walls, and washed grey oak lit by soft, indirect amber glow. Rather than relying on simple pampering, the space operates around the cellular precision of the signature Chenot Method®. Guests undergo advanced bio-energetic diagnostics and vascular assessments before embarking on bespoke multi-day protocols—integrating targeted hydrotherapy baths enriched with trace elements, phyto-mud wraps, sub-zero cryotherapy, and traditional hammams that systematically reset human vitality.
Tucked deep within this architectural cocoon lies the heated indoor lap pool, a tranquil sanctuary framed by monumental stone colonnades, arched terracotta mosaic niches with glowing hearths, and soaring windows looking out toward the cliffside contours of Boka Bay. Offsetting the scientific rigors of the medical spa, movement and active restoration take on an ethereal, place-based rhythm throughout the estate’s expansive Mediterranean gardens. Dedicated indoor studios for Pilates and Vinyasa yoga yield to outdoor wooden platforms and jetties built directly over the bay, where guided morning stretching, twilight meditation, and seasonal stargazing take place against the lap of the Adriatic waters.
Physical conditioning is further elevated by world-class athletic facilities seamlessly embedded into the coastal landscape. The state-of-the-art fitness center houses Technogym machinery linked directly with personal trainers who align movement regimes with individual diagnostic profiles. Nearby, the Janko Tipsarević Tennis Club provides two floodlit hard courts complete with professional coaching, while sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and custom seaside cycling paths across the Portonovi promenade offer an unhurried, atmospheric engagement with the surrounding fjord.
The Azure Basin
Linear turquoise waters and geometric lounging contours aligned against a stark architectural promenade. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
Spanning a 26-hectare coastal domain, the resort’s aquatic layout encompasses an extraordinary total of eleven swimming pools—balancing the private hydrotherapy sanctuaries of the signature villas and the monastic calm of the Chenot spa with a vibrant Riviera waterfront. Positioned directly in front of the main palazzo, the central grand infinity pool serves as the visual anchor of the estate, its vanishing edge merging seamlessly with the azure expanse of Boka Bay. Flanking the shoreline, a trio of freshwater beach pools steps down toward a manicured golden sand beach—a remarkable engineering feat along an Adriatic coast naturally dominated by stone cliffs and pebble shores. Here, plush canopy beds, widely spaced loungers, and a private wooden jetty frame gentle, glassy fjord waters ideal for unhurried sea bathing.
Extending beyond the shoreline, the resort’s private jetty and partnership with the adjacent 238-berth D-Marin superyacht marina transform the bay into an exclusive nautical playground. Guests can board private speedboats directly from the beach dock to explore historical Yugoslav-era submarine caves, dive the glowing cavernous depths of the Blue Cave, or cruise toward the historic island church of Our Lady of the Rocks and medieval Kotor. For active sea-farers, the calm fjord waters host stand-up paddleboarding, sea kayaking, wakeboarding, and bespoke coaching alongside Montenegrin national water polo champions, while certified divers can explore sunken Adriatic shipwrecks before returning to the sun-drenched sanctuary of the beach.
The Boka Bastion
Terracotta-pitched rooflines and palatial stone massing stepping down to the bay’s edge. Photo: Courtesy of One&Only Portonovi
Beyond the immediate coastal grounds, the estate functions as a private cultural gateway, offering access to the storied heritage and raw terrain of the Montenegrin coast. Private ateliers within the resort host masterclasses with acclaimed local painters and artisans, while bespoke excursions grant entry into Montenegro's confidential aristocratic history. Guests are invited behind closed doors for private tours of 18th-century seaside palaces in Kotor and Perast, hosted exclusively by local nobility. Historians lead guided journeys titled "Through the Eyes of Marshal Tito," unravelling the secret wartime retreats and underground tunnels of Yugoslavia’s former president, while the adjacent marina promenade naturally comes alive with seasonal open-air cinema, private regattas, and high-fashion presentations.
For those drawn to the wild interior, the resort orchestrates high-altitude wilderness adventures across Mount Orjen and the Balkan hinterland. Aerial charters whisk guests over dramatic fjord crests via private helicopter, while ground-level expeditions range from guided 4x4 safaris deep into mountain ranges to rugged treks across the Subra Amphitheatre and historic stone hamlets. Thrill-seekers engage in canyoning down roaring river gorges and coasteering along jagged coastal cliffs, balancing the adrenaline of raw nature with returning to the refined tranquility of the estate.
Enshrining the absolute pinnacle of international art de vivre, One&Only Portonovi emerges not merely as a destination, but as a timeless sanctuary where spatial cadence, architectural mastery, and the dramatic elements of Boka Bay converge. In marrying Jean-Michel Gathy’s Venetian-inspired grandiosity with HBA’s modern monastic interiors, the property captures a rare, unhurried cadence of living. Whether soaking in the golden glow of twilight across the fjord or surrendering to the quiet prestige of a private villa, guests experience the Adriatic Riviera at its most transcendent—translating a rarefied existence into an enduring editorial vision.
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