Welcome to Trip Trek Tales. We always strive to bring the best travel information and guides for you. Today, we will tell you about a less traveled and explored place on Earth. We are talking about the Albanian Riviera.
It’s no secret that the Albanian Riviera is a breathtaking destination that has only recently started to attract well-informed travelers. This part of the country has beautiful unspoiled beaches and clear water, backed by steep mountains, and stretches from Vlore to Ksamil. The Albanian Riviera presents a genuine Mediterranean ambiance without the hordes of tourists that you may experience in neighboring countries. For those planning to visit this new hot spot, this guide covers everything from the must-see places and activities to timing your visit.
Read till the end and learn everything about the Albanian Riviera. You might make a plan to visit this beautiful place on Earth.
Getting There: The Journey to the Albanian Riviera
Arriving by Air
Although Tirana is the main international hub in Albania, those who focus on the Albanian Riviera may prefer to land on Corfu Island in Greece instead. Because it is near to the location, Corfu has several ferries to Saranda (the unofficial center of the Albanian Riviera), making it a convenient stopover before traveling along the coast. This route is more popular now because of its practicality and low prices relative to flying to Tirana directly.
The Ferry Experience
The Ferry crossing from Corfu to Saranda is short yet beautiful. The trip lasts around half an hour and provides great views of the Ionian Sea. Finikas Lines is one of the key ferry companies and tickets cost around €30 one way during high season. Plan your day out in advance as tickets can be bought online and avoiding the rush and higher prices is best. However, it is important to mention that there is one hour’s difference between Corfu time and Albanian time: Corfu is one hour ahead. As such, plan accordingly.
Exploring Saranda: The Heart of the Albanian Riviera
As an ancient port, Saranda is comfortable enough to be the center of your travels to the Albanian Riviera. Famous for its public and privately owned pebble beaches, Saranda is however more peaceful in ambience when compared to the crowded resort city of Ksamil. Tourists are a mix of local and domestic which is good during the season of the year. The new budding city of Saranda is small enough to walk around with many sights, shops, and restaurants.
Key Attractions in Saranda
- Lëkurësi Castle: This medieval stronghold offers awesome views of Saranda and the sea. It is a great place for either the lovers of history or the ones who wish to take impressive pictures of the sea coast.
- Boulevard of Saranda: A charming pedestrian walkway extends well into the waterfront and is bordered by palm trees, small cafes, and shops. Most people take walks here and it’s best to do so in the evenings since the boulevard is very lively with people who are either locals or tourists.
- Local Dining: Hotel Royal Saranda is ideal for guests wishing to experience Albanian hospitality, as the hotel is centrally located and has very good services. For gastronomic purposes, one can opt for Fresco Fish and enjoy good seafood with good views and Te Bequa where one can taste the country’s rich culture in the form of traditional food.
Beaches of the Albanian Riviera: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
Ksamil: The Sandy Paradise
Located a few kilometers south of Saranda, Ksamil is famous for its awesome sandy beaches and crystal-clear water. Even though most of the beaches here are artificial, the region is famous for its scenic islands and active beach life. Ksamil can get very busy during the peak season so it is a good idea to arrive there very early in the morning.
- King Poda Beach: Popular for its quite decent beach bar and pleasant sceneries, King Poda Beach is a favorite. The beach tends to be filled with visitors, but its facilities and sights are worth feeling and seeing.
- Black Pearl Beach: This specific beach has a much more casual environment and epic views. It can get crowded at times, but it is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of stark beach beauty.
- Mirror Beach: Mirror Beach is located a few minutes away from Saranda and is known for its beautiful deep blue sea. It employs very few staff and is very small, but does have a pretty view, although pretty people can sit there very quickly.
Hidden Beach Gems
- Shpella e Pellumbave: Shpella e Pellumbave is for people who want a beach holiday away from the crazy seas. This popular spot consists of a lovely sandy beach and is a scanty drive away from Saranda but the steep cliff therefore the long walk is worth it when you get to the beautiful quiet beach.
- Brilant Bay: This place is not well known yet, therefore it is perfect for peace lovers. The swimming might be limited if the water is too rough, but there is an observation deck not far away, whose views are spectacular.
Activities and Attractions: Beyond the Beaches
The Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder
The Blue Eye is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the region. This peaceful underwater spring consists of a deep blue color and a depth that remains unexplored. The water temperature remains cold even in the summer season; thus, people wish to do so yet recreationally. The Blue Eye is reachable within a distance of around an hour from Saranda by bus or taxi with an entrance fee of only 50 LEK.
Mussel Tour: A Unique Culinary Adventure
Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Mussel Tour. It demonstrated perfectly indeed from an ancient town called Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site to traditional mussel farms further including dinner of freshly prepared mussels along with local white wine. The excursion highlights local aquaculture in an unusual manner and lets the guests try the local fish.
Local Cuisine and Wine: A Gastronomic Delight
Albanian Food
Albanian food is a great mix of Mediterranean cooking empowered by the Ottoman Empire, Italy, and Greece. Due to its location near the sea, there is a lot of fish and seafood which is a delight to the sea-food lovers.
- Byrek: It is a culinary delicacy that is only popular in Albania. A byrek is made of layers of phyllo dough, cheese, vegetables, or meat. It is usually taken in between meals or as a light meal.
- Speca te Mbushura: Rice stuffed and baked bell peppers and this dish is very common in Albanian families.
- Zupa: A festive sponge dessert that contains layers of sponge cake, custard, nuts to complete the meal.
- Raki: An alcoholic drink with Albanian characteristics, made with various fruits, and has the ability to ‘hit’ back in an Italian way. This drink is usually taken before and/or after meals and is an essential feature in the custom of eating.
Recommended Restaurants
- Fresco Fish: Focusing on the fresh seafood complemented with a great view of the sea, Fresco Fish is perfect for dining in Saranda.
- Kristiano Restaurant & Bar: Serves tasty Albanian wine and a wonderful uninterrupted sea view.
- Bar & Restaurant Limani: It is situated on the pier and has a busy setting and a diverse menu.
- Restaurant Te Bequa: They serve some real homemade style food and a warm ambient home atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: When to Experience the Riviera
The best period for the Albanian Riviera is, most suitably, in the two seasons before and after the summer heat, namely, between April and June and September and October. During these times, the temperature is mild and the number of beachgoers is also not overwhelming. The truly hot summer months of July and August are characterized by the highest temperatures and the ongoing eager beach activities, however, everything is at peak price and there are many people. Avoid clashing with the tourists in the high season and prefer the shoulder seasons.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Currency and Payments
As for the national currency of Albania, it is Lek (LEK) – plastic cards and euros are accepted in several tourist centers. In euros rather than local currency LEK transactions may have worse rates. Small shops tend to be cash-based so always have some cash in hand as well.
Language
It is important that you do not expect that all or most Albanian people can speak English. grateful, especially with on-holiday assistance to learn several Albanian words or with a translation app. It greatly improves travel.
Mobile and Connectivity
Telephone and other services such as mobile internet while in live transmission may be subjected to additional charges because Albania is not a part of the European Union. You may want to buy a local SIM once you arrive in the country to help minimize costs for data and calls.
Conclusion: Embracing the Beauty of the Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera is one of the most beautiful places filled with nature, culture, and activities that tourists would surely enjoy. From its rich beaches and water areas, wonderful food, and friendly people, the Riviera guarantees travel like no other. Given how Albania is on its way to becoming a well-known travel destination, visiting the Albanian Riviera today remains a chance to appreciate its beauty before it is too late. With its pristine landscape and the friendliness of its people, the Albanian Riviera certainly remains one of the best-undiscovered places. Relaxing in the warm sunshine on immaculate beaches, tasting the national cuisine, or wandering around ancient monuments, the Albanian Riviera will not disappoint you.
