Description
Our pedals cruise along hot, smooth tarmac, slowly descending towards a mass of Adriatic blue water. It has a magical shimmer to it; whispers of all the legends it holds. And now, it is layered with tangerine rays spreading from the setting sun. We rest our bikes on the harbour wall and take in the view.
Gulls and terns squawk as they circle overhead. Local fishermen chat whilst swilling warm cans of beer. The seabreeze carries scents of salt and boat fuel, alluringly swirled with wafts from a fish fry taking place on the pebbles. It makes my mouth salivate incessantly. Beside us, locals are perched on the sea wall, watching life mill by, their weathered faces lined deep with every belly chuckle. Quickly, they spot our bikes, and we are all entrenched in hearty conversation.
We are on Montenegro’s Adriatic Coastline. And despite having less than 200 miles of oceanfront, the water has sunk in deep. Salt seemingly runs through the veins of these communities; a life built upon the water, with the tide beating a regular, reliable rhythm for daily life.
Here, houses and cabins are built right up to the water’s edge. The ocean a trade highway, a leisure zone, a cultural resting spot, home to fables and tall tales.
Yet, life here is in flux. The crystal clear waters and idyllic weather have lured fellow wanderers for generations. Once, salt and fish led these communities, but now, above the surface, land is being quickly sold and developed; new accommodation, new restaurants and attractions, catering to all those drawn in by the crystal-clear waters. But, look just beneath the surface, you could feel the myths and legends upon which it had all been built. From ancient fairies that protected inlets, to the souls of long-lost lovers you could hear singing from the cliffs. You were never far from a wide-eyed local tale of legend and lesson.
This photo was taken on our last day by the sea, in the harbour town of Ulcinj. It is a land famed for pirates, marauding from the Ottoman Empire, further north along the Adriatic. Here, great, great-grandparents fought off plundering pirates and helped save young maidens from being carried away. There’s little wonder the locals cling to this watery land with such love.
Print details
• Printed on premium Fuji Matt photographic paper
• Available in multiple sizes
• Made to order
• Carefully packaged for delivery
• Photograph taken during our cycle journey from England to India
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— Josh & Sarah
