TIRANA, June 18 /ATA/ Velipoja, Albania’s northernmost coastal destination, is fully prepared for the upcoming tourist season. Stretching over 14 kilometers, the coastline is celebrated for its unique geographical diversity—seamlessly blending the Adriatic Sea with rivers, lagoons, and protected nature reserves. Bolstered by recent enhancements in coastal organization and the expansion of free public beaches, local authorities anticipate surpassing last year’s record influx of visitors.
Holidaymakers interviewed by the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATA) praised the positive transformation of Velipoja in recent years, highlighting improvements in cleanliness, safety, and beach organization. Visitors from Kosovo, including Mitrovica and Gjakova, consistently noted the destination’s affordable prices—often lower than in their hometowns—as well as the welcoming hospitality and excellent coastal conditions that keep them returning year after year.
In a recent interview with ATA, Shkodra’s General Director of Sustainable Economic Development Bekim Mema outlined the municipality’s successful coastal preparations. Highlighting ongoing beach cleaning and space zoning, Mema emphasized that a primary focus is guaranteeing free, accessible public areas. Notably, 30–35% of Velipoja Beach remains a free public zone. This year, the municipality has also introduced discounted umbrellas and loungers on publicly managed beaches to improve affordability for all vacationers.
Mema said that they are working closely with the National Coastal Agency to ensure private operators strictly fulfill their contracts regarding beach safety. “Our goal is 100% compliance, requiring all beach operators to provide certified lifeguards and proper emergency infrastructure. This ensures every vacationer in Velipojë receives immediate assistance in an emergency, supported further by municipal coastguards”.
“The expectations are high and we hope that we will exceed last year, where in the peak periods of July and August, Velipoja has a beach capacity of 100 to 120 thousand vacationers. We hope this number will increase and we are working hard with private operators to keep prices in normal levels so that they are as affordable as possible for everyone”, said Mema. /m.q/j.p/r.e/p.s./
