Swissôtel Resort Kolašin, Montenegro

While Montenegro has become famous in recent years for its undiscovered coves, perfect pebble beaches and dramatic fjord-like scenery, it’s also home to mountain resorts more commonly seen across the Alps. Around half an hour from Biogradska Gora National Park you’ll find the country’s main mountain resort, Kolašin, which teems with skiers and snowboarders taking to the snow-blanketed slopes in the chilly winter months. In the summer it’s an idyllic paradise of deep emerald forests, charming and traditional inns and picturesque squares, with miles of shady trails to explore on foot or by bike. After energetic days outside in the fresh, pine-scented air, refuel with hearty casserole-type dishes made from lamb stewed in milk with potatoes, carrots, rosemary and garlic, cooked over coals to make deliciously tender meat and warm, smoky flavours.

While feeling wonderfully remote, the capital, Podgorica is just over an hour away. Explore its pristine streets, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influenced architecture, exciting galleries and museums and the magnificent Petrovic Palace.