A hidden fishing cove between Bar and Ulcinj
Hladna uvala is a small fishing cove located halfway between Bar and Ulcinj, near Utjeha. It is surrounded by large olive groves that keep it isolated from the rest of the coastline. Even in season there are no crowds here — only those seeking peace, clean water, and nature make the journey. To the left is a forest, to the right are rocks, and ahead is the open sea. From here it is possible to rent a kayak and paddle to the neighbouring Kristalna beach.
Location
Utjeha, between Bar and Ulcinj
Beach type
Rocky cove
Crowds
Minimal even in summer
On Google Maps
Hladna uvala
Best time
May – June, September
Highlights
Hladna uvala takes its name from the natural shade provided by the rocks and olive groves that surround it on all sides. Swimming off the rocks is the only way to enter the sea — there is no sandy beach here. To the left of the cove stretches a dense forest, to the right are stone rocks, and ahead is the open sea. The natural configuration of the terrain means that a sunshade is not necessary even on the hottest summer days.
The cove is isolated and entirely surrounded by large olive groves that separate it from surrounding roads and settlements. It is precisely these olive groves that are the reason for minimal visitor numbers — the access path is not visible from the main road and passers-by easily miss it. Olive trees provide shade along the entire shoreline and make the setting visually and thermally more pleasant than typical concreted beach zones.
Hladna uvala is the only practical starting point for kayaking to Kristalna beach, located near Kruče, opposite the island of Stari Ulcinj. Kristalna beach is among the most secluded locations on the Montenegrin coast — it can only be reached by land via a steep forest trail, while by sea it is accessible in about twenty minutes of paddling. Kayaks are rented directly at Hladna uvala, making it the logistical hub for exploring this stretch of coastline.
A short distance from Hladna uvala, near Utjeha, lies the cove of Paljuškovo — still a lesser-known destination on this stretch of coast. It is characterised by a typical harmony of a pebble beach framed by a rocky shoreline and green vegetation, with crystal-clear water. Paljuškovo is a great complement to a visit to Hladna uvala for visitors who want to explore more hidden spots on the Bar–Ulcinj stretch in a single day.
Plan Your Visit
Opening hours
Free access, 24h
Admission
Free entry
Parking
Informal roadside parking, free, limited capacity
Website
www.bar.travelThe cove is not adapted for people with disabilities — access is over uneven terrain and rocks
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