Summer Flight Timetable for Flights to Albania
(Version 5 Effective 05 March 2021)
TOP BEACH DESTINATIONS
Dhermi
The village of Dhërmi has earned so much popularity among Albanians in the last several decades, that its very name has become synonymous with summer itself. In fact, the many elements within and surrounding this village so perfectly reflect the hot summer, that is has become quite difficult to fully experience the season without immersing yourself in its beautiful nature, and diving into its brisk sparkling waters.
“In front of the sea, happiness is a simple idea”, the French writer Jean Claude Izzo once wrote, and, indeed, Dhërmi’s part of the Ionian Coast is deserving of these poetic lines. It is for this very reason that thousands of local and foreign tourists annually choose Dhërmi as their summer vacation destination. Dhërmi never disappoints with its countless shades of blue, spectacular bays, water sports, and the always dependable sunshine. A place quite simply, it seems, that everyone is happy!
In Dhërmi, as well as in its neighboring beaches of Palasë, Drimadhes (Drymades), and Jali, you will find some of the nation’s most prestigious summer nightclubs. They are perhaps one of the main contributors to Tirana’s sudden emptiness during the period from June to August. The capital’s youth is generally found in these vibrant, open-air clubs where some of the best international DJs host their exclusive summer parties. During the hot summer nights, it’s difficult to rival this buzzing atmosphere, which is full of the energy of excited summer party-goers.
Ksamil
Delightful Ksamil, 17km south of Saranda, sits on a narrow arm of land between a sparkling lagoon famed for its mussels and a cobalt-coloured sea. The entire area surrounding the small town is a protected zone and the dusty tracks and pathways leading over olive-studded hills and along ancient water canals are a joy to explore. The coastline around Ksamil is also unusually attractive. Blessed with three small, dreamy islands (sadly, one of which is being quarried for construction material) within swimming distance of shore and dozens of pretty cove beaches, Ksamil is the kind of place where you can happily while away many sun-drenched days. However, do try and avoid high season when the place is overrun with other Nirvana seekers. Late September is idyllic.
Ksamil is a less discovered town in Europe with paradise beaches, lush nature, great views of the ocean, and incredible mountain scenery. The people are kind and friendly towards tourists and are always happy to help. One of the best things is that you feel welcomed in Albania, and that is thanks to its locals. The weather is pleasant throughout the year, and there are plenty of fun things to both see and do.
I’m sure that Ksamil is going to become a big tourist destination in the future, just because the country is so beautiful and friendly. One of the best things to do in Ksamil is to relax at their fantastic beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. It’s so relaxing to lay there in the sun, listen to the sound of the waves, and enjoy the incredible views of the mountains, ocean, and lush nature.
There are several beaches to visit in Ksamil, where the most of them offer the facilities you need for a whole day.
Himara
Himara, the largest village on the Southern Riviera, is an absolute must-see! Because of its strategic position along the Ionian Coast, the village has had a long history of steady growth, however, in the last couple of decades, it has grown exponentially. Of all the villages along the coastline, Himara offers the most inclusive summer experience. It’s no wonder then that nearly all travel guides recommend it without hesitation!
Everything you need for a nice and fairly inexpensive vacation in the south is right here! Unspoiled beauty and brisk blue waters. Wonderful seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Delicious locally-produced products, old churches, spectacular hiking trails, are but a few of the reasons people flock here every summer. Most importantly, you can easily reach all the exclusive beaches of the Albanian Riviera from this central location. Some of the most beautiful beaches in proximity to Himara are Livadh, Potam, and Llaman. But don’t forget the caves! Spile Cave and Pigeon’s Cave, in the Ilias village, are particularly spectacular sites. Some more exciting outdoor adventure opportunities around this area include hiking, scuba diving, kayaking, and paragliding.
The road towards Himara continues a bit further after descending the Llogara Pass. This mountainous and coastal expanse holds a monumental ancient history, and a rich cultural heritage. Himara alone has a castle, several churches and Byzantine monasteries worth exploring on your off-beach time. You should begin with the Castle of Himara, built in the 3-4th centuries B.C. Himara’s ancient olive groves also hide the beautiful churches of St. Stephen and St. Spyridon.
Another charming little site is Himara’s small port, located at the heart of town. Here, countless fishing boats bring fresh seafood daily, and small yachts or motorboats take visitors to the beautiful Ionian Islands. Many visitors enjoy the view from the countless cafes along the port. But, Himara’s town centre is popular also for its vibrant town promenade. The latter comes to life especially in the evenings. People gather to relax and enjoy dining and drinking in the various restaurants and bars along the promenade, and the nightclub scene here is not too bad either – for those looking for a dance in the warm summer evenings!
Grama Bay
Grama Bay (Gjiri i Gramës) is one of the indisputable pearls of the Ionian coast. Here, the sea is segmented by massive rocks which quite naturally create a paradisiacal oasis. It is no coincidence that, in ancient times, this bay sheltered countless ships attempting to escape the stormy seas. Numerous Ancient Greek and Latin inscriptions on the cliffsides of the bay, place Grama in the time period preceding Christ. Phrases written in Greek or Latin have been preserved for centuries in the vertical cliffs and rocks surrounding the spectacular bay.
The easiest way to reach this bay is through the sea. However, there are unofficial marked hiking trails, of a certain level of difficulty, for those who would like to intimately explore the landscape. Many have been those adventurers who have walked for hours through the lush forests of the Llogara Mountains all the way to the cliffs of the Karaburun peninsula, a hike that descends dramatically into the sea. In one of these steep slopes, located in the peninsula’s western part, near the Orikum area, you will find Grama beach. In fact, the bay stretches within the Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, one of the country’s most valued natural monuments.
There are hundreds of meters of beach at your disposal. Gorgeous deep emerald hues and coral reefs near the base of the cliff make for a breathtaking view. The bay is ideal for a short camping stay, as well. However, since the area is uninhabited and secluded, one must be prepared and bring along appropriate food, water and clothing.
According to Ols Lafe, Director of the Center for the Development of Ancient and Medieval Albanian Heritage, the bay takes its name from the 1500 rock inscriptions from various historical periods, dating as far back as the 3rd century B.C all the way to the 19th century. Some very prominent names are present in these inscriptions, including that of the Byzantine Emperor John V Palaiologos. There are also Socialist-era inscriptions made by soldiers stationed there. You will find these types of inscriptions in almost every destination that was under army control before the ‘90s. In addition, there are even more recent inscriptions and some very unfortunate vandalism of a few of the ancient inscriptions.
According to sea lore, Grama was a quarry from where stones that were used to construt entire Illyrian cities were extracted. As a result, it is generally thought that the rock inscriptions were left by the sailors and the quarry workers. In addition to its rich ancient history and amazing nature, Grama Bay also offers the option of cave exploration as there are plenty of gorgeous ones around here!
Jale
For a fascinating and fun summer adventure, head just a few kilometres south of Himara, to Jali Bay. Though fairly small, this particular bay certainly doesn’t lack in variety. To begin with, the road from Himara to Jali is breathtakingly beautiful! It takes you through an olive and sycamore tree-lined winding street, along to the picturesque Vuno village. The bay is a fairly quiet spot, with crystal-clear and permanently brisk waters. It has a recognisable semi-circular shoreline that almost looks too perfect to be real! In addition, the steep hill cutting into the sea provides an ideal level of seclusion from the main highway. In fact, this particular beach was the former communist government’s favourite retreat, and when you see it, you’ll understand why! It now continues to exert the same magnetic power over the general population and visitors who take the chance to go there.
Jali’s 300 metres of pebbled shoreline boasts perhaps the clearest sea on the Southern Riviera. Because of the bay’s currents, the underwater flora and fauna are rich and diverse, and close to the shore. Though you can effortlessly see the seabed, you may choose to dive into these inviting waters. At the end of the day, make sure you enjoy the spectacular sunsets here – thanks to the bay’s position relative to the sun, there’s few better locations to see out the end of a day.
Jali is the most famous camping site on the Southern Riviera. Established long before the camping trend made its way to Albania, camping in Jali has by now become something of a tradition. The younger generation in particular, who prefer an alternative and inexpensive beach experience, swoop in to invade Jali every summer! If you are on a budget or simply prefer a casual social setting, you should definitely try it out! For an entirely different atmosphere, in addition to guesthouses, hotels, and camping options near the beach, you can stay in the quaint village of Vuno, located right above Jali Bay. Entirely built from stone, it resembles the idyllic villages of Southern Italy, with beautiful old churches scattered throughout. Here, you’ll come into contact with the traditional Southern Albanian way of life, and meet the very friendly locals who reside here.
The vibrant nightlife in this small yet exciting bay is not to be missed! For more than a decade now, Jali has hosted one of the most happening summer clubs in the country, known as Folie Marine. During the day, this club gathers loyal visitors in its private, luxurious beach area, which serves some of the best cocktails in town. At night, the area transforms into party central! Every weekend, this club organises the greatest parties in town, where anything from reggae and electronic, to pop and rock beats, echo across the bay.
Last but not least, the secluded Jali Beach holds some fascinating sightseeing opportunities. On one of the hills that encircle the bay, you’ll spot a building from the 1970s. Once upon a time, this imposing structure hosted Communist government officials who retired to this spot for its seclusion, and breathtaking views of the sea. Today though, it houses senior officers of the Albanian army, and the building is also open to tourists. A massive stone stairwell takes you to the top, where you can enjoy one of the very best panoramic views on the Southern Riviera!
