
Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro
Ancient Benedictine monastery ruins offering dramatic sea views and a historical escape near Bar, Montenegro. A unique spot for exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos

Ratac Monastery Ruins Montenegro
Best Time
Golden hour for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Benedictine monastery ruins offering dramatic sea views and a historical escape near Bar, Montenegro. A unique spot for exploration.
"Very eerie place with stunning views of the sea. Great opportunity to explore history and nature beauty in one go."

🚶♀️ Walk from Bar
It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
⚠️ Safety First
Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Benedictine Abbey
Near Bar, Montenegro
Explore the remnants of a monastery founded around 1247, offering a glimpse into medieval history.

Stunning Sea Vistas
Coastal cliffs
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea from the monastery's elevated position.

Olive Oil Press Ruins
Within the monastery complex
Discover the historical ruins of an olive oil press, showcasing ancient agricultural practices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Safety
Expectations & Best Use
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk from Bar
It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
⚠️ Safety First
Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:
📸 Sunset Views
The ruins offer stunning sea views, especially beautiful at sunset. :camerawithflash:
✨ Off the Beaten Path
A hidden gem offering history and nature. Worth the effort if you like exploring. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk from Bar
It's a 2-hour walk from Bar center. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
⚠️ Safety First
Solo female travelers report feeling unsafe. Consider going with a group. :warning:
📸 Sunset Views
The ruins offer stunning sea views, especially beautiful at sunset. :camerawithflash:
✨ Off the Beaten Path
A hidden gem offering history and nature. Worth the effort if you like exploring. :sparkles:
🎨 Site-Specific Art
The ruins have been used for unique art installations and performances. :performing_arts:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Ratac Monastery Ruins to be a hidden gem offering stunning sea views and a glimpse into history, especially beautiful at sunset. However, the journey can be long, and some report feeling unsafe due to unwanted attention, making it less ideal for solo female travelers.
"I reached out to Monastery Ratac by walking for 2 hours from the center of Bar, but It was very worth to a visit. The hidden gem of Bar."
Park팍
"We wanted to see the monastery but unfortunately there was a really bad vibe, a Guy ask our instagram and ask if we wanted tu drink. 2 others looked suspicious, so we were scared And decide not to go. And we went back home, the first guy followed us during for like 15 min, he started to run so we run Also, it was really scary so please don’t go alone as a woman !"
Léopoldine De Maintenant
"Old monastery, in very bad condition, dirty outside but clean inside. Nice place to visit on sunset, but don’t expect too much from it, it is small and abandoned"
Dmytro Korol
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is to walk from Bar center, which takes about 2 hours. There are no direct public transport options to the ruins themselves. Taxis might be able to get you closer, but the final approach is often on foot. :bus: :taxi:
It's considered 'off the beaten track.' While there are signs, it's helpful to use GPS or a map. The walk can be scenic but requires some navigation. :world_map:
Driving directly to the ruins is difficult due to the terrain and lack of established parking. Most visitors park in Bar and walk, or arrange a taxi that can get as close as possible. :car:
The path can be uneven and sometimes rocky, especially as you get closer to the ruins. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
While not as common as tours to other major sites, some local tour operators in Bar might offer excursions. It's worth inquiring locally or checking online tour platforms. :tour_bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Ratac Monastery Ruins. It's an open, abandoned site. :free_admission:
As an open-air ruin, there are no official opening hours. You can visit anytime, but it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and visibility. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee. The site is freely accessible to the public. :moneywithwings:
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. Daylight hours are best. :nightwithstars:
No booking is required. You can visit spontaneously. :calendar:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the ancient Benedictine monastery ruins, including remnants of an olive oil press, and enjoy stunning sea views. It's a place for historical exploration and photography. :camerawithflash: :ruins:
The ruins are in a state of disrepair, as expected for an ancient, abandoned site. Some areas are cleaner than others, but it's not a restored monument. :construction_worker:
It can be interesting for older children who appreciate history and exploring ruins. However, the uneven terrain and safety concerns mean close supervision is essential. :child:
The ruins offer great opportunities for historical, architectural, and landscape photography, especially during the golden hour at sunset. The site has also been used for site-specific dance performances. :performingarts: :camerawith_flash:
No, there are no facilities at the Ratac Monastery Ruins. You should bring your own water and snacks, and use restrooms before you leave Bar. :water_wave: :coffee:
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, offers the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere. The golden hour casts a beautiful glow on the ruins and the sea. :sunriseovermountains:
You can capture wide shots of the ruins against the sea, detailed shots of the stonework, and panoramic views of the coastline. The site-specific art installations also offer unique photographic subjects. :camerawithflash:
Drone regulations can vary in Montenegro. It's advisable to check current local drone laws before flying. Generally, flying over historical sites or near populated areas may require permits. :drone:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and ruins. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod is recommended for sunset shots. :camera:
Yes, the atmospheric ruins have inspired artistic endeavors, including dance performances and exhibitions, making it a unique backdrop for creative photography and videography. :performingarts: :moviecamera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Artists
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
While much of the monastery has succumbed to time and neglect, the remaining structures still evoke a sense of its former grandeur. The site-specific art installations and performances that have taken place here, such as dance and graphic exhibitions, underscore the enduring appeal of these atmospheric ruins as a unique canvas for contemporary expression.
Visiting Ratac is an opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the resilience of historical sites. It’s a place where history, nature, and art converge, offering a contemplative experience for those willing to venture off the beaten track.
Navigating the Ruins and Safety
Safety is a significant consideration, particularly for solo female travelers. There have been reports of feeling unsafe due to unwanted attention from individuals encountered on the path or near the ruins. It is strongly advised to visit in a group or during times when more people are likely to be present. Bringing a fully charged phone and informing someone of your plans is also a prudent measure.
Once at the ruins, explore with caution. The site is abandoned and not maintained as a formal tourist attraction, meaning there are no facilities like restrooms or cafes. Be mindful of loose stones and uneven surfaces. Despite these challenges, the unique atmosphere and historical significance make it a rewarding destination for those who prioritize exploration and historical discovery.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit