TIRANA, March 26 /ATA/- A horizon of white and rocky beaches, miles of untouched coastline despite a thriving tourism and bays that come into sight like diamonds that bask in admiration, this is how the Italian paper “Il Messaggero” describes the Ionian coast in Albania.
In front of it, a sea of bright turquoise that is colored with all shades of blue. It looks like being on the edge of the ocean or in the Caribbean sea, instead, this is Albania, which is recently emerging as a popular European destination.
Undoubtedly it boasts areas of great beauty and the south part remains truly breathtaking, among green-covered hills contrasting with sand and cliffs overlooking the crystal clear water. Although in August it is swarming with visitors, the country is still unexplored and the costs are not high.
Himara: a splendid sea, also the pride of this country. The beach, year after year, is becoming increasingly popular with numerous people flocking to Spille, Potam and Prinos. Llamani, a bay which is in the midst of hills going down to the sea, is not that much crowded.
Jala beach: super clean sand and sea. It is a small and sandy beach in a secluded setting, surrounded by rocks and rock formations. There are two small hotels and a campsite within sight.
Livadhi beach: surrounded by greenery and rocky cliffs, with vegetation that has been proserved over time, is located near Himara. From here you can explore the gulf and enjoy the idyllic landscape of the Ionian coast.
Porto Palermo: a small peninsula named after the Italian soldiers who had stopped here during the Second World War. The place is so much evocative that it has been the background to several film sets. In addition to the sea, it boasts of a castle that can be visited in the company of local guides. The fortress dates back to the nineteenth century and was commissioned by Ali Pasha Tepelena, politician and governor of several European territories under the Ottoman Empire, in honour of his wife . In the communist period, it became a refuge for Soviet submarines.
Borsh: it is the longest beach of the Albanian Ionian coast, 3 km in length. In the nearby village you can see a castle dating back to the Byzantine era to be rebuilt by the Ottomans, while the beach is surrounded by olive and citrus groves.
Ksamil beach: tourist resort of outstanding natural beauty that overlooks four islands that can be reached by boat or swimming at low tide. Not far from Saranda, a perfect location for exploring the surroundings, it has shallow waters and golden sand, bars and restaurants on the beach. Likened to the pearl of the Ionian Sea, it stands in front of the island of Corfu and behind it is the Butrint National Park, one of the most beautiful archaeological parks in the Balkans, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Almost all the beaches packed with visitors.
Drymades beach: near the village of Vuno, looks like a golden cove where many choose camping or bungalows to rest. On the horizon you can see orange groves and pine trees, in an atmosphere full of charm. It can be reached by leaving the asphalted road passing through the village of Dhermi.
Beaches of Dhermi: Once you make it to this lovely village you will find three beaches Shkambo, Jaliksari and Gjipea, about 2km long that lead up to the Pirates’ Cave, located at the foot of the hill where the St. Teodor Monastery stands. The latter, full of privacy, served as a shelter for all those who wanted to protect themselves from unpleasant encounters from the sea. Dhermi is a perfect destination for young people who enjoy nightlife and in summer is frequented by travellers from around the world.
Palasa beach in Vlora: in the stretch of the coast between Qafa e Llogarase and Saranda, it is a triumph of small villages with white houses attached to the hills. And then here is the beautiful, unspoiled beach with golden sand equipped with sun beds and umbrellas.
Karaburun beach: peninsula that surrounds Vlora and within the Karaburun-Sazan National Park, the only marine park in the country. In addition to Roman ruins and World War II wrecks, it is an area known for scuba diving, steep cliffs and underwater caves. Former military area, until the 90s it was offlimits and today can be reached on foot or by small boats.
Pulebardhat beach: near Saranda is absolutely one of the most beautiful in Albania, where you can rent a boat and go exploring breathtaking bays in the area.
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