New Measures to Protect Montenegro’s Blue Cave Starting September 2025

Published on August 21, 2025

Along Montenegro’s breathtaking coastline, the Blue Cave (Plava špilja) captivates visitors as one of the nation’s most treasured natural gems. Perched on the Luštica Peninsula a short distance from Herceg Novi, the cave’s waters radiate an otherworldly turquoise when the sun’s rays stream through the entrance. Beyond this radiant spectacle, the cave’s striking geological formations draw adventurers; together, they explain why the site enchants holidaymakers and residents alike. Yet the swell of boats and cameras in recent seasons has left experts worried about the delicate balance of this coastal ecosystem. Answering those worries, Montenegro’s authorities will in September 2025 grant the Blue Cave formal protection, elevating it to a designated conservation zone. This decision will reshape visitor routes and the overall stewardship of the cave, ensuring its brilliance endures for generations.

The Blue Cave’s Journey Toward Protection

In August 2025, the Municipality of Herceg Novi announced that the Blue Cave would be officially entered into the Register of Speleological Sites of Montenegro. This marks the first step in a series of actions aimed at officially recognising the Blue Cave as a protected natural area. The Ministry of Ecology, Spatial Planning, and Urban Development confirmed that the updated national register will be finalised by the end of September, which will mark the cave’s official inclusion as part of Montenegro’s speleological heritage. This designation recognises the Blue Cave as a site of immense geological and ecological value, ensuring its future preservation.

This official protection status is particularly important for a site that has become one of the most visited natural attractions on the Montenegrin coast. Over the years, the cave has experienced an increasing influx of tourists, many of whom arrive by boat as part of organised excursions around the Bay of Kotor. While these visits have contributed to the local economy, they have also put pressure on the delicate ecosystem of the cave. Rising concerns over potential damage caused by uncontrolled mass tourism have led to calls for stronger protections to preserve the Blue Cave for future generations.

New Regulations for Visitors

The introduction of protection measures will come into effect in September 2025, under the guidelines of Montenegro’s Nature Protection Law. Starting from that date, access to the Blue Cave will be strictly regulated, and tourists will only be allowed to visit with a special permit. The government has implemented these regulations to address concerns about the environmental damage caused by overcrowding and unregulated boat tours. The requirement for permits aims to limit the number of visitors allowed to access the cave at any given time, ensuring that the site’s ecological balance is not disturbed.

Tour operators who organise excursions to the Blue Cave will also need to obtain these special permits. This means that future trips to the cave will be coordinated through an official permitting system, allowing for better control over the number of visitors and the management of tourism in the area. This shift is expected to reduce the environmental impact of mass tourism, which has previously led to erosion of the cave’s natural features, pollution, and disturbances to local wildlife. The goal of the new regulations is to strike a balance between allowing tourists to experience the beauty of the Blue Cave while also ensuring that the site remains protected for years to come.

Conservation Efforts and Future Plans

In addition to the immediate regulation of visitor access, the Municipality of Herceg Novi has begun the development of a detailed conservation study for the Blue Cave. This study will examine the cave’s current environmental conditions, identify potential threats, and propose measures to address these challenges. Once the study is finalised and adopted, it will serve as a roadmap for future conservation efforts and will lay the groundwork for officially designating the Blue Cave as a protected natural monument.

This move to officially protect the Blue Cave highlights the growing awareness in Montenegro of the need to preserve its natural heritage. The cave’s inclusion in the country’s speleological register underscores its significance not only as a tourist attraction but also as an important part of Montenegro’s natural history. The government’s commitment to preserving the cave reflects a broader trend toward sustainable tourism and environmental conservation in the region. By creating a clear framework for conservation, Montenegro aims to ensure that the Blue Cave can be enjoyed by future generations without compromising its delicate ecosystem.

The Blue Cave’s Unique Appeal

The Blue Cave’s allure lies not only in its stunning appearance but also in its geological and historical significance. The cave’s turquoise waters are created by sunlight filtering through a small opening in the rock, which reflects off the water’s surface and creates a glowing effect. This natural light show is particularly captivating in the early morning and late afternoon when the sunlight hits the cave at just the right angle. For many visitors, the experience of entering the cave by boat and witnessing the shimmering waters is unforgettable.

The Blue Cave is also home to a variety of marine life, including fish, sea urchins, and various other aquatic species. The surrounding waters of the Luštica Peninsula are known for their rich biodiversity, which is one of the reasons the Blue Cave has been selected for protection. The cave and its surrounding environment provide a habitat for species that depend on the area’s unique ecosystem. The conservation measures will help safeguard these species and ensure that they continue to thrive in their natural habitat.

The Blue Cave is not only a natural wonder but also an integral part of Montenegro’s cultural heritage. The cave’s breathtaking beauty and its historical significance have made it a beloved site for both locals and visitors alike. It is often included in boat tours around the Bay of Kotor, which is one of the most popular tourist routes in Montenegro. For many tourists, visiting the Blue Cave is a highlight of their journey to the Montenegrin coast.

The Impact of Protection

The decision to officially protect the Blue Cave has significant implications for Montenegro’s tourism industry. By regulating access to the cave, the government is prioritising sustainability and environmental protection over unchecked growth in visitor numbers. While this may result in a reduction in the number of tourists who can visit the cave, it is expected to enhance the overall experience for those who do. Fewer visitors will mean less crowding, more time to enjoy the cave’s natural beauty, and a greater focus on preserving the cave’s delicate ecosystem.

Moreover, the protection of the Blue Cave is likely to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable tourism across the region. Montenegro’s commitment to preserving its natural wonders can serve as a model for other countries in the Mediterranean that face similar challenges with balancing tourism and conservation.

Conclusion

Montenegro’s Blue Cave has long wowed travellers with its otherworldly glow. Now, thanks to new protective measures, the cave has taken a giant step toward lasting safety. The government is rolling out strict visitor rules and a step-by-step conservation plan to shield both the cave and its fragile marine life. These changes mean that the jewel of the Montenegrin coast will keep shining for future explorers. Being smart about tourism here lets us soak in the cave’s radiant waters today without dimming its beauty for tomorrow.

[Image Source: Viator Official Website]