Fort Gorazda
Explore Fort Gorazda, a derelict Austro-Hungarian fortress with a unique 100-ton rotating turret and stunning views of Kotor Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Fort Gorazda
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Fort Gorazda, a derelict Austro-Hungarian fortress with a unique 100-ton rotating turret and stunning views of Kotor Bay.
"Such an amazing and spooky place to visit, with great views and a unique historical feel."
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring dark interiors and basements. Don't miss hidden spots!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and can be slippery. Good grip is key for safe exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gruson Turret
Rooftop
Marvel at the last remaining 100-ton rotating turret, a testament to ingenious military engineering.
Panoramic Views
Fortress exterior
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Kotor Bay, Tivat, and the surrounding Montenegrin landscape.
Exploration Corridors
Interior
Venture through dark, atmospheric corridors and chambers, imagining life within this historic fortress.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Uncover Hidden History
Access & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring dark interiors and basements. Don't miss hidden spots!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and can be slippery. Good grip is key for safe exploration.
🦇 Wildlife Encounters
Bats and birds inhabit the fort. Enjoy their presence, but be mindful of their space.
🗺️ Alternative Access
Consider the 'hidden' hike for a fee-free entry and unique perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
🔦 Bring a Flashlight
Essential for exploring dark interiors and basements. Don't miss hidden spots!
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain is uneven and can be slippery. Good grip is key for safe exploration.
🦇 Wildlife Encounters
Bats and birds inhabit the fort. Enjoy their presence, but be mindful of their space.
🗺️ Alternative Access
Consider the 'hidden' hike for a fee-free entry and unique perspective.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fort Gorazda is a captivating, albeit derelict, historical site offering stunning views and a unique exploration experience. Visitors appreciate the atmospheric corridors, the impressive Gruson turret, and the panoramic vistas, though some note issues with graffiti and litter. The potential for free access via an alternative hike is also a draw for many.
"Such an amazing and spooky place to visit. There are several levels, some pretty dark. Set upon the top of a hill with great views.
There's bats living inside here which hiss at you. Take torches if you want to discover it all properly. It's derelict so no cost. Only planned to spend a few minutes, but ended up an hour walking around inside and on top.
Long drive to get here, but well worth it."
Tim Husain
"Nice place,have beautiful view for all sides,very fresh air. There on right side u can see Kotor,and on left side will be Tivat. Powerful place. Recommend"
Guliola Lena
"Cool atmosphere. I considered flying a drone, but the area near the airport is restricted and requires authorization. Don't be alarmed by the sounds inside the bunker; it's just birds nesting. They’re flying in and out.."
Vladislav Barkovskij
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive to Fort Gorazda from Kotor is generally straightforward, with the road described as good. Some visitors mention an 'official entrance' while others suggest a free, alternative hike up the hill via a ladder, bypassing any potential fees.
Yes, the road leading to the fort is reported to be in good condition, making it accessible for most vehicles.
Information on public transport to Fort Gorazda is limited. It's likely best accessed by car or taxi for flexibility.
While not explicitly detailed, the presence of visitors suggests that parking is available near the fort, likely on the roadside or in designated areas.
Many visitors recommend driving, as it offers the most convenience. For the adventurous, a hike from a specific point can lead to the fort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reports vary. Some mention an 'official entrance' with fees, while others highlight a free, alternative hike to access the fort. It's advisable to be prepared for both possibilities.
As a derelict and abandoned fortress, Fort Gorazda does not have official opening hours. It is generally accessible during daylight hours.
While some sources suggest potential fees at an official entrance, many visitors report exploring the fort for free, especially via alternative routes.
Drone usage may be restricted, particularly near the airport. Authorization might be required, so it's best to check local regulations beforehand.
The fort is derelict, so caution is advised. Be aware of uneven surfaces, potential wildlife like bats and scorpions, and structural integrity.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic fortress, including its corridors, chambers, and the unique 100-ton Gruson rotating turret. Enjoy panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding landscape. 
While children might find the exploration exciting, parents should supervise closely due to the derelict nature of the fort, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife.
Visitors have reported seeing bats and birds inside the fort. Some also mention scorpions on the walls, so be cautious.
While some planned for a few minutes, many visitors ended up spending an hour or more exploring the fort and its surroundings.
The panoramic views from the exterior, the unique Gruson turret, and the atmospheric interior corridors offer excellent photographic opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fort Gorazda is an abandoned fortress and does not have any dining facilities. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water.
There are no designated picnic areas, but you can enjoy a picnic with a view on the surrounding hills, provided you clean up thoroughly.
The nearest dining options would be in the towns of Kotor or Njeguši, which are a drive away from the fort.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for capturing the panoramic views. Midday can be harsh but still offers good opportunities for interior shots.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive views and interior spaces. A flashlight is essential for interior photography.
The 100-ton Gruson rotating turret, the dramatic views over Kotor Bay, and the atmospheric, graffiti-adorned corridors are prime subjects.
Yes, photography inside the fort is allowed and highly recommended to capture the unique atmosphere and historical elements.
Be mindful of the derelict state of the fort and potential hazards. Also, respect any wildlife present.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the fort itself doesn't have amenities, the drive there and the panoramic views can be enjoyable for all. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The unique experience of exploring an old fort might be more memorable than a typical tourist attraction for older children who can appreciate the history.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventure Seekers
Even without the alternative route, exploring the fort's multiple levels and surrounding terrain provides a good workout. The uneven ground and the need to navigate through different sections of the fortress make it an engaging activity for those who enjoy active exploration. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water.
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
+1 History buffs will be fascinated by the Austro-Hungarian military architecture and the strategic importance of the site. Bring your best camera gear, including a wide-angle lens and a reliable flashlight for capturing the moody interiors. The late afternoon light is ideal for landscape shots, while any time of day works for capturing the fort's imposing structure and historical details. Be prepared to spend a good amount of time exploring and documenting this unique location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gruson Turret: A Mechanical Marvel
Visitors often express awe at the sight of this massive turret, which once slid out from the fortress to engage targets. Its presence is a powerful reminder of the fort's strategic importance. While the fort itself is now derelict, the turret stands as a testament to its former glory and the ingenuity of its creators. Exploring the area around the turret offers a unique perspective on its historical context.
Pro Tip: Make sure to get a good look at the turret from various angles to fully appreciate its design and scale. It's a key highlight that shouldn't be missed during your visit.
Exploring the Derelict Fortress
Be prepared for uneven surfaces, loose debris, and graffiti that adorns many of the walls. Despite the wear and tear, the fort offers a fascinating glimpse into military history. The sheer size of the structure and the maze-like passages can easily occupy an hour or more of your time. Remember to watch your step and be aware of your surroundings as you navigate the interior.
Community Insight: Some travelers have noted that the fort, while vandalized, still holds immense potential and offers a unique, albeit gritty, historical experience. The sounds inside are often attributed to birds nesting, rather than anything more sinister.
Panoramic Views and Strategic Location
The vistas are particularly breathtaking during the golden hour, making late afternoon a popular time for visitors seeking to capture the beauty of the area. The fresh air and expansive scenery provide a welcome contrast to the enclosed, historical interiors of the fort. It's a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and appreciate the natural and historical significance of the site.
Traveler Tip: Don't just explore the fort's interior; spend ample time on the exterior ramparts and surrounding hills to fully appreciate the commanding views.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit