ALBANIAN BEACHES & BLUE WATER SILO
THE ALBANIAN RIVIERA – AN ABUNDANCE OF BEACHES AND BLUE WATER
The Albanian coastline runs south from the Dalmatian coast to about as far south as the Greek island of Corfu. We’re well below the Adriatic Sea here, and firmly in the Ionian. The Albanian Riviera is the southernmost part, running from Vlore in the north to Sarander – a 120km (100 mile) expanse of lovely unspoilt beaches washed by warm waters. Since the Albanians built a major highway along the coast it’s become increasingly popular for ‘beach bunnies’ and has seen the development of some sympathetically developed hotel complexes. There are lots of small resorts and coastal villages, but four major places of interest to international travellers.
DURRES
With one of the largest and most popular expanses of sand along this stretch of shoreline Durres Beach attracts a loyal following of water sports fans, swimmers and sunbathers. The old castle on top of the promontory is a local favourite and more secluded beaches are available. Culture Vultures will love the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans and dating to the 2nd Century CE. The archaeological museum, Venetian tower, faith Mosque and Byzantine Forum are notable sites of interest. If so much culture works up a thirst and an appetite you’ll find lots of restaurants, cafes and bars serving local specialities and fresh fish.
KASAMIL
Great beaches, some lovely offshore islands and pristine sandy beaches with crystal clear waters make Kasamil very popular with the soft adventure crowd. It’s easy to rent a paddleboard or kayak to cruise out to the uninhabited islands just off the coast. For more sophisticated water sports take a Jet Ski out for a couple of hours, or go diving to explore the underwater charms of the seabed. Butrint National Park, Ali Pasha Castle and Lekurski Castle are on your doorstep and Sarander is a short drive away. At the end of the day you’ll find a good choice of excellent low-cost seafood restaurants and bars.
SARANDER
Perhaps the best way to describe Sarander is as a cosmopolitan beach resort with one of the worlds most fabulous heritage sites attached! Sarander is first and foremost a beach resort with translucent waters and lovely expanses of sand with just about every beach amenity you could wish for, from water sports to beach bars. It also has a vibrant and sophisticated nightlife with some great places to dine and dance. But if you need an extra reason to visit it is so you can visit the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint. Far too much to tell you in this one paragraph – make sure you read our Butrint blog!
VLORE
A long-established city at the Northern end of the Albanian Riviera, Vlore is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history, stunning sands, and vibrant culture. You’ll find a good choice of beaches nestled between rocky headlands, with everything you need for a good day out whether active or chilled-out near a convenient beach bar. Vlore is the place where Albania declared independence in 1912, as Independence Square and Museum bear testament. Local mosques and monasteries are well worth a visit. Nightlife, wining and dining are all well catered for. All-in-all it’s a charming place with something for everyone.
Cultural
Cultural Essence
ALBANIAN CUISINE
Food and drink in Albania tends to be half the price of other Mediterranean countries. It may be half the cost but it’s not half bad! Read our mouthwatering foodie blog
ART & CULTURE
The Balkans have a unique creative culture with roots in a range of influences from Ottoman, through Ilyrian to the modern day. See our blog for the full picture.
