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Have you ever heard of the Albanian Riviera? It’s one of the most underrated coastlines in Europe, and it’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Unlike more popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera, the Albanian coastline from Vlore to Saranda remains largely untouched, making it a truly unique and special experience.
I had the pleasure of living in Albania for three months and exploring the country’s beautiful coast. One of the highlights of my stay was taking a road trip from Vlore to Saranda in March 2021. The journey was an adventure filled with breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and surprises.
In this post, I’ll take you on a journey along the Albanian coast and show you why it’s a must-visit destination for any avid traveler. So buckle up and get ready for the ultimate Albanian coastal road trip from Vlore to Saranda!
Best Time for a Road Trip from Vlore to Saranda
The best time to take a road trip from Vlore to Saranda is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming in the turquoise waters and exploring the beautiful coastline.
However, if you’re looking for a more peaceful and less crowded experience, consider visiting in the spring or fall. I took the road trip from Vlore to Saranda in March and was quite surprised by the weather. It was sunny and warm, though not warm enough to go for a swim. But since the temperatures during these seasons are still mild, it’s an ideal time for hiking or simply admiring the stunning scenery.
If you’re planning a road trip during the winter months, be aware that the roads may be icy or closed due to snow. However, if you’re up for a winter adventure, you’ll be rewarded with a peaceful and serene landscape, as well as the opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine without any other tourists in travelers.
To sum it up, the best time for a road trip from Vlore to Saranda depends on your personal preferences and travel style. But no matter when you visit, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty and charm of Albania’s coastline.
How to Travel
When it comes to traveling along the Albanian coast, a car is a must. While there are buses available, the experience simply won’t be the same without the freedom and flexibility of your own vehicle. I had the pleasure of doing the road trip in my car, which allowed me to stop whenever I wanted, take detours to explore hidden gems, and truly immerse myself in the stunning scenery.
If you’re not traveling with your car, renting a car in Tirana is a great option. From there, you can make it a roundtrip and later visit places inland, like Gjirokaster, Berat, and Osum Canyon. These places are not to be missed, and having a car will make the journey all the more enjoyable.
If you want to save time and money and support a good cause, I highly recommend checking out my car rental section where you will find search widgets from Giving Getaway partners Rentalcars.com and Economy Bookings. From each successful booking, I earn a commission of which I donate 50% to charity.
Keep in mind that the roads in Albania can be narrow and winding, so it’s important to drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings. However, the reward is worth it, as you’ll be able to experience the beauty and charm of the Albanian coastline at your own pace.
Now that we’ve covered the logistics of traveling along the Albanian coast, let’s dive into some of the must-see stops on the route from Vlore to Saranda!
1) Vlore
Vlore (or “Vlorë”) is located in the southern part of Albania, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet and the starting point of your epic Albanian road trip. When it comes to beaches, Vlorë is like a treasure trove. With clean waters and stunning sandy beaches, it’s no wonder that Vlorë is a popular beach destination. Plus, with over 300 sunny days a year, you’re almost guaranteed some quality beach time.
Since the city beaches can get pretty crowded in peak season, you might want to head to Plazhi I Ri, a beach that is usually less crowded and more relaxing. Alternatively, you take a boat to the Karaburun Peninsula. This hidden gem offers pristine white pebble beaches and is largely undeveloped, which means you can get some real peace and quiet.
You can also visit the iconic Independence Monument to pay homage to the fateful day when Albania declared independence in Vlorë in 1912. If you want to learn more about Albania’s history, the Orikum Archaeological Park and the National Independence Museum are the places to go. There you can see old Roman remnants, period photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of Albania’s journey to independence.
Talking about food, Italy is just a short hop across the Adriatic, and the influence on the local cuisine is pretty evident. You can find delicious pizza with a thin crust that would pass muster in Naples and some pretty sweet ice cream. But the real star is the local seafood, which is usually allowed to speak for itself with just a touch of garlic and lemon. And the best part? It’s usually pretty affordable!
2) Llogara Pass and National Park
The Llogara Pass and National Park is the start of the National Road SH8, one of the most scenic drives in Albania and Europe. This twisting road ascends to 1,027 meters (3,370 feet) and overlooks the Albanian Riviera’s Ionian shore, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountain ranges.
The Llogara Pass divides the mountains into western and eastern ranges and is where the scenic drive begins. As you drive through the popular Llogara Pass, you’ll be surrounded by large forests and gradually climb to its highest peaks. On top of the pass, you will find a parking area with restaurants and a viewing area. Here you have the opportunity to see beautifully-shaped trees, formed by air currents, including the famous Flag Pine tree.
While the park sits on the main coastal highway, visitor facilities are very limited. However, it’s still worth stopping for a few minutes to take in the stunning scenery. For those with more motivation, there are hiking trails available, including the 8.6 km (5.3 mi) round trip to Mount Çika.
Crossing over to the northern side of the pass, you’ll encounter a huge old-growth forest, in stark contrast to the dry, desert-like scenery on the southern side. The Llogara Pass and National Park are definitely one of the highlights of any trip to the Southern Albanian Riviera!
3) Palasa Beach
Palasa Beach is a real gem and the northernmost beach of the Albanian Riviera. The beach is wide and long with stunning views of the Llogara Pass on one side and the clear blue waters of the Ionian Sea on the other. The area used to be undeveloped, but just a few years ago there was a large investment project that brought all kinds of facilities to the beach.
Although some parts of the beach are reserved for residents only, there are still plenty of areas that are accessible to the public. The beach itself is covered in medium-sized stones and the seabed is made up of larger stones, which may be why the water is so clear. Just be sure to bring your sandals or water shoes!
You can also rent lounges and umbrellas for a small fee, and there’s even an outdoor sports center that offers water sports and extreme activities like paragliding from the Llogara Pass.
4) Dhermi
The next stop, personally of my favorites, is Dhermi, a charming coastal village located along the Albanian Riviera. Recently it became quite a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful natural scenery.
One of the main attractions in Dhermi is its long sandy beach, which stretches for several kilometers. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and different kinds of water sports. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks while soaking up the sun.
Apart from the beach, the village itself is quite picturesque, and perhaps the most alluring feature of Dhermi is its old town. Cobblestone streets and burnt orange rooftops make for a striking view, similar to a village in the Greek islands. Dhermi is also home to several churches, but the Church of Saint Mary stands out the most. It is perched atop a hill, overlooking the stone streets of Dhermi and the beautiful coastline of the region.
If you would like to spend a few more days in Dhermi, you will find plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. There are also several shops and supermarkets where you can buy groceries and souvenirs.
5) Gjipe Beach
Gjipe Beach is a true hidden gem and an absolute paradise! The setting is what I loved the most – with the canyon in the back and turquoise waters in front. To get to the beach, you will have to leave your car in the parking lot and take a 20-minute rocky walk downhill. It’s not too strenuous, but you better make sure to apply sunscreen or bring a hat because there isn’t much shade along the way.
Once you reach Gjipe Beach, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a long stretch of sand to enjoy. The beach is considered one of the best in Albania and there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Besides swimming in crystal-clear waters and sunbathing, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards or relax on a large float. 
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the nearby Gjipe Canyon that runs behind the beach. The hike to the main road takes about 3 hours, and there’s a waterfall to admire halfway through the canyon. Alternatively, you can go cave hunting around Gjipe, which is only possible at low tide. To access the caves, you can swim or kayak, but be sure to check with the locals working on the beach if it’s safe to do so.
When it comes to food and drink options, there are even a few restaurants on-site that are open during the holiday season and offer local and quick food at reasonable prices.
6) Vuno
Vuno is a charming and authentic village and another hidden gem on your Albanian coastal road trip that’s definitely worth a visit. Nestled in the rocky arid mountains, this idyllic village offers a stunning panoramic view of the deep blue Ionian Sea from its beautiful white houses.
The village has a Greek flavor, which is not surprising since it is not far from Greece, and the island of Corfu can be seen from the village. One of the village’s main attractions is the church of Saint Mary, built in 1783, which was turned into a cinema during communism. You can even obtain the key to the church from the local coffee bar and explore its interior, which includes a beautifully preserved iconostasis.
Apart from the history and the natural setting, Vuno also has some of the best beaches in Albania nearby. I already mentioned Gjipe Beach which is very close, but there are also many other hidden beaches in the area that are worth exploring. Just make sure you can get off the beaten track and discover the beauty of these secluded beaches, you won’t regret it!
7) Himara
Himara is one of the most charming coastal towns in Albania and compared to Dhermi and Vuno the biggest coastal town along the route. Located between the sea and the mountains, Himara offers long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters as well as the nearby mountains which are ideal for hiking and exploring.
One of the most prominent landmarks of Himara is the ancient Himara Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town and the sea. The castle is a must-visit if you are into history, and if you feel like enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area. Another attraction is the quaint Old Town, with its narrow streets and traditional architecture, where you can wander around and soak up the town’s charming atmosphere.
As mentioned before, the town boasts several beaches, including Potami Beach, Livadhi Beach, and Spile Beach, which offer soft sand and crystal-clear water. You can also find a range of beachside bars and restaurants, serving delicious seafood and local drinks.
8) Porto Palermo Castle
If you’re looking for a fascinating historical site to explore during your road trip along the Albanian Riviera, consider checking out Ali Pasha’s castle of Porto Palermo. The castle is located on a small island in the Bay of Palermo, between Qeparo and Himara, and connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land, so it’s easy to walk to.
Legend has it that Ali Pasha of Tepelena built the castle in 1804 with the help of French military engineers, who were killed shortly after its completion. However, some historians argue that the castle was actually built much earlier by the Venetians, due to its similar triangular shape with round towers, like the Venetian Triangle Castle at Butrint.
Regardless of its true origins, the castle has a rich history. The bay of Porto Palermo has always been an important harbor in the ancient world, named Panormos (Panorama) in Greek and later renamed Porto Palermo in the Byzantine era, similar to the city of Palermo in Sicily. During and after World War II, the castle served as a prison and shelter for military units. In 1948, it was declared a “Cultural Monument” and is now a museum open to visitors.
The castle itself is impressive, with a triangular shape and three pentagonal towers at the corners made of limestone. Inside, you can explore several rooms, including a prison centrally located and oriented towards the sea, with guards patrolling the passageways. A stone stairway leads to the terrace on top of the castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea, the rocky coastline, and the mountains. Don’t miss the chance to explore this fascinating piece of Albania’s past and take in the stunning views from the castle terrace!
9) Castle of Borsh
Borsh Castle is another fascinating historical site in Albania that tells the story of the country’s ancient past. Also known as Kalaja e Borshit in Albanian, this castle is a historic fortification located on a hill adjacent to the village of Borsh. While much of the castle has been damaged and destroyed over the years, you can still see the entrance gate and significant parts of the fortification walls, as well as a mosque located near the entrance. From the castle, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Borsh village and its beach on one side, and Borsh River and the surrounding mountains on the other side.
The history of Borsh Castle can be traced back to the 4th century BC when the Epirote tribe of the Chaonians inhabited the area. The castle went through four subsequent phases of construction during the Byzantine period and the Middle Ages. It was referred to as Sopot Castle during the medieval period. The first written records of Borsh Castle date back to the early 13th century, during archbishop Demetrios Chomatenos’ time, who wrote about the “archonship of Sopotos.” The castle has changed hands numerous times throughout its history, leading to significant damage to its structure.
In the 15th century, when the castle fell into Ottoman hands, a thorough restoration took place, and the Haxhi Bendo Mosque was added. The mosque was named after Haxhi Bendo Vasil, a Borsh native who served under the Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Unfortunately, the mosque suffered extensive damage during the communist era ban on religion, and part of its minaret is still missing. The castle has not yet undergone any restoration efforts.
You can enter the castle can enter free of charge, but keep in mind that there are no facilities or amenities available. It is recommended to bring enough water, especially on hot summer days, and some food or snacks for a picnic on the hill with a spectacular view. The best way to reach the castle is by car and only the last part of the journey involves walking along a cobblestone path that takes about 5-10 minutes.
10) Saranda
After a long and beautiful road trip along the Albanian Riviera, Saranda is the last stop on your journey. But that doesn’t mean that your Albania adventure must have come to an end, as there is still so much to see and experience in this charming coastal town and its surroundings.
Saranda itself is a lively and bustling town, with a long promenade stretching along the waterfront, where you can find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can also take a stroll in the central area of the town, where you’ll find local markets and shops selling souvenirs, traditional crafts, and fresh produce.
But the main attraction in Saranda is undoubtedly the stunning beaches. The town’s main beach is a long stretch of pebbly sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the clear blue waters of the Ionian Sea. There are also other beautiful beaches nearby, such as Ksamil, which is just a short drive away and is famous for its small islands that you can swim to.
If you’re looking for more cultural experiences, Saranda has some interesting sights to offer as well. The most notable is the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located just a short drive from the town. Butrint is an impressive archeological site, with ruins dating back to the Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods, and is worth a visit.
So don’t rush to leave Saranda just yet, take your time to explore and discover all that this beautiful town and its surroundings have to offer!
Conclusion
I have to say, the road trip from Vlore to Saranda was one of the most scenic drives I’ve had in my life. The Albanian Riviera has so much to offer, from stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters to picturesque villages and ancient castles.
Driving from Vlore to Saranda is a great way to explore this part of Albania, but the best part was the freedom to stop wherever we wanted and take in the breathtaking views. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable road trip, I highly recommend exploring the Albanian Riviera with its rugged coastline, charming villages, and ancient history!
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To answer your initial question: Yap, I’ve heard Albania has beautiful beaches – and is a beautiful and exciting country. And as a matter of fact, it has been on my list forever since I believe that many of the countries in Southeast Europe are some of the last hidden gems when it comes to travel. I’d definitely love to visit once I have longer periods of time for travelling since I’d like to go there by train and bus; it will take forever, but I’m sure that will be such an inspiring trip.
I never heard of the Albanian Riviera! I admit that I’m pretty ignorant on the whole area. Probably because it was relatively known by tourists… Lately however I’m hearing a lot about this country.
I must definitely consider a road trip here