Karisma Hotels & Resorts and Dobrov & Family Group have announced the commencement of construction for the luxurious hotel-residential complex, Porta Rai, on Velika Plaža in Ulcinj. According to the announcement, construction for one of the most significant tourism projects in this part of Europe in the past decade will begin in November this year, with an estimated investment value of 160 million EUR.
This five-star hotel-residential complex will feature exclusive restaurants and bars, a wellness and spa center, seven pools, padel, tennis and basketball courts, mini golf, diverse children’s facilities with promenades, and an exclusive retail zone. The investors emphasize that both hotel guests and complex visitors will equally enjoy these amenities. “Our aim is to commence construction in November this year, with the entire project planned for completion within three to four years. We believe this project will enrich the tourism offering in the region, providing a new address for luxury on the most beautiful beach of the Adriatic coast. Porta Rai will be a destination for quality relaxation and a place where culture, exclusivity, and nature converge,” said Dragan Lučić, Director of Dobrov & Family Group for Montenegro.
The name Porta Rai carries deep symbolic meaning, symbolizing “the gate to paradise.” “PORTA” is Latin for “great gate,” while “RAI” refers to “paradise” or “heaven.” “Through the development and positioning of the Porta Rai concept, we have endeavored to offer something innovative and distinctive in the regional market. Residential units of the highest quality are a crucial component of our offering, but our main focus in development is dedicated to amenities for children and families. Consequently, I am pleased that the entire complex will be situated amidst a large park filled with green spaces and authentic Mediterranean plantings, as we aim to create an environment tailored to people,” said Nemanja Kostić, Director of Karisma Hotels & Resorts for Europe and the Middle East.
It appears that the Porta Rai complex will be constructed on the site of the former Hotel Lido on Velika Plaža. The land is owned by the Budva-based company Capital estate, and according to media reports from the end of last year, this company conducted negotiations with the international hotel group Karisma Hotels Adriatic regarding the potential construction of a new hotel facility at the same location. Recently, the Chief State Architect granted conceptual approval to Capital estate for a 5-star hotel complex.