From Vlorë to the Meeting Point of Two Seas in Coastal Albania
We began the next leg of our journey from Vlorë, a city that’s a buzzing summer destination, but in February, it was peaceful and quiet—an ideal time for off-season exploration. Vlorë, part of Coastal Albania is unique as it marks the confluence of the Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea and just a 30-minute drive from here brought us to the majestic Llogara Pass.
Llogara Pass: A Walk Among the Clouds
The scenic route to Llogara, a gateway to Coastal Albania’s famed Riviera, was nothing short of breathtaking. At this altitude, it felt like walking in the clouds. A quick cultural break gave us the chance to experience local folk dances and traditional cuisine—an authentic and heartwarming experience. The next day, we explored more of Llogara, where the cool air and lush surroundings made for the perfect setting to taste a refreshing yogurt specialty, a local favorite.
Saranda: A Coastal Albania Riviera Gem
Our drive continued south to Saranda, one of Coastal Albania’s crown jewels, often referred to as the Ibiza of Albania or even the Maldives of Europe. Saranda is vibrant and alive during the high season—April to October—and draws many visitors from the nearby Greek island of Corfu. Though quieter in February, its charm was undeniable. After a delightful lunch by the sea, we continued toward the Butrint region.
Butrint: Roman Ruins by the Lake in Coastal Albania
Next, we arrived at Lake Butrint, famous for its mussel farms and natural beauty. This area is home to Albania’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site—the Butrint Archaeological Park. A sprawling site of well-preserved Greek and Roman ruins, including an amphitheater, Butrint is a dream for history lovers and for those who enjoy open-air explorations amidst scenic landscapes along Coastal Albania.
Gjirokastër: The City of Stone
Our next stop was the picturesque town of Gjirokastër, Albania’s third UNESCO site, often called the City of Stone. Known for its Ottoman-era tower houses, Gjirokastër is a living museum of architecture and culture.
We visited the Skenduli House, located beside the birthplace of dictator Enver Hoxha. This 17th-century residence, once home to 35 family members, featured:
- 44 doors
- 64 windows
- Secret chambers
- Beautifully preserved rooms from different eras
From there, we headed to the Gjirokastër Castle, offering panoramic mountain views and we were lucky to catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks in the distance. For those who love walking, the town is entirely walkable, although nearby lakeside hotels just 20 minutes away offer excellent overnight alternatives for a more scenic stay.
Durres: Ancient Roots and Relaxed Vibes
After Gjirokastër, we made our way to Durrës, part of Coastal Albania and the oldest city in Albania, dating back to the 7th century BC. Once an important Roman settlement, Durrës is home to:
- A 20000-seat Roman amphitheater
- A well-preserved Turkish hammam
- An ethnographic museum connected to a renowned Albanian actor’s family
Just a 20-minute drive from Tirana, Durrës makes for a perfect final stop to unwind before flying home.
En Route: American Connections and Ottoman Legacies
On our way, we passed through a town near Krujë, where a statue and café named after Former US President George W. Bush caught our attention—marking his visit to Albania. Interestingly, a statue of Former US President Bill Clinton can be found in neighboring Kosovo, symbolizing the warm ties between the U.S. and the region.
In Krujë, we explored a Turkish-style bazaar and visited the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero. His presence is felt throughout the country via statues and monuments, showcasing his enduring legacy in resisting Ottoman rule.
Conclusion
With this, our journey through Southern & Coastal Albania came to an end. From coastal beauty and mountain landscapes to rich history, culture, gastronomy and wine, this region has left an indelible impression. That’s where Namaste Tourism comes in, curating such offbeat journeys with care and attention to detail.
If you haven’t yet read Albania Blog Part 1 and Albania Blog Part 2, I recommend going back to them to follow the full journey from the very beginning.