The hook
A white Orthodox monastery built directly into a vertical cliff face high above a valley, looking as though it has been glued to the rock, and one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the Balkans.
01Why it's worth it
Ostrog is startling before you know anything about it: a small white monastery set into a near-vertical wall of grey rock partway up a mountain, its chapels partly carved into caves in the cliff. It was founded in the 17th century around Saint Basil of Ostrog, whose relics are kept here, and it draws a constant stream of pilgrims of several faiths who come to pray, some climbing the last stretch on foot or on their knees. The upper monastery, pressed against the rock with frescoes painted straight onto the cave walls, is the dramatic part; a lower monastery and guest quarters sit down in the trees. The road up is steep and narrow. Beyond the faith, the sheer improbability of the building and the valley view make it worth the climb.
02How to experience it
Drive the switchback road up (or walk the pilgrim path from the lower monastery for the full effect), dress with covered shoulders and knees, and go early to avoid the busloads. Keep it respectful; this is an active, serious pilgrimage site.