Winter Port of Call: Porto Montenegro

The low season sails to new heights in Porto Montenegro, where there are pristine peaks to ski, New Year's Eve parties that go off with a bang and sailing courses to get the adrenaline going.

The country on the Adriatic may be more known for its beaches and balmy summers, but this winter there are plenty of events and activities to be enjoyed in idyllic, uncrowded settings and at prices that not only make it very tempting but also affordable - take off on a Montenegrin getaway now!

The five star Regent Porto Montenegro has unveiled their Winter Escape package, laden with discounts. Prices start at just 135 Euros per room per night – luxury at its best. And getting there has never been easier as flights to European capitals continue through the winter months from Dubrovnik and Podgorica airports.

On arrival guests may want to shake off the dust of travel with a stroll around the harbour - the silvery water and views across Boka Bay are beautiful at this time of year - then have a peruse around the shops, Burberry, Cartier, Celine, Heidi Klein, Isabel Marant, Marc Jacobs, Stella McCartney, and more, where you're sure to find some cosy knits or Christmas gifts. By which point you deserve to rest your feet in one of the cafes, soak up the festive atmosphere and drink in a traditional Montenegrin hot chocolate or the local plum-based spirit Rakija for more of a kick.

In winter the black mountains that give Montenegro its name are dusted with snow, in fact more snow than anyone skiing in the Alps in recent years is likely to have seen. There are two main ski resorts in the country, Kolasin is the most popular and has recently stepped it up a gear with the new Four Points by Sheridan. Visitors will enjoy peaceful slopes and magnificent powder.

Staying at the Regent you receive 20% off spa treatments, which you'll want to make the most of having returned from a few days skiing. If you haven't had your fill of adventure, taking an off-road jeep trip is a thrilling experience or head back to port and go sailing with an RYA accredited course, available at all levels.

In February, Carnival fills the streets of Kotor with a riot of colour, spectacle and music that transcends time, age, and background and where tourists are made very welcome. The traditional masked ball is a sumptuous and electrifying affair, not to be missed.

Find out more about winter in Porto Montenegro, here.