The Tivat saltern used to be of great importance! Now it is a beautiful nature reserve

Montenegro is indeed an incredible destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. While the Lake Skadar area is far more significant and famous among travelers, another beautiful and enchanting location is just a 13-minute drive away from the luxury found in the renowned port city of Tivat and Tivat airport.

Tivat Saltern, was once a significant center for salt production that supported 200-300 families for many years until it eventually became a neglected area. Fortunately, it has now been transformed into a Special Nature Reserve that is worth visiting.

Tivat Saline, Photo: Milica Buha, CC BY-SA 4.0

Tivat Saltern, also known as Tivat Saline and locally referred to as Tivatska solila, was first documented in the 14th century as one of the few places authorized to legally sell salt. It operated for many years, experiencing periodic closures, until it was finally shut down during the Yugoslav era in the 1960s.

With the stopping of production, and neglect the area was recognized by many species which made it home. Eventually, in 2008, the Republic Institute for Nature Protection of Montenegro decided that the area had to come under protection to preserve what was left of it and its inhabitants.

Tivat Saline, Photo: Milica Buha, CC BY-SA 4.0

Spreading across 140 hectares, the Special Nature Reserve Tivatska Solila is a unique area in Montenegro created by the sedimentation of the Široka River and the estuaries of the Koložun River, where salt production was initiated with the assistance of the sea in Krtole cove.

This area serves as an essential flora and fauna reserve, providing a resting place for numerous birds along the Adriatic migration route. Approximately 110 bird species inhabit the reserve, along with around 14 species of amphibians and reptiles, three of which are endangered.

In 2009, this nature reserve was further recognized as an area of international importance for birds, and it was acknowledged for its Emerald habitats by the Bern Convention. Additionally, in 2013, the reserve was included in the list of wetlands of international importance.

Tivat Saline, Photo Milica Buha, CC BY-SA 4.0

If you find yourself already visiting the beautiful coast and Boka Kotor Bay, make sure to stop by this incredible, one-of-a-kind area. We are sure you will enjoy it!