Albania - Travel Tips

Albania
Albania boasts beautiful nature and very nice people. Since there are still not so many people coming here, it is not overcrowded at all. 
 
Albania is located on the Balkan Peninsula, its coastline is washed by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. There are a lot of lakes in the country, each lake is different, yet they are all beautiful.

Which route to choose?
Here are 5 different routes that will allow you to explore the beauty of Albania, both by the sea and in the mountains, during your camper trip:
 
1. Adriatic Coastal Route:
   • Start in the town of Durrës and drive along the scenic coastal road to the town of Vlorë.
   - Stop at the beaches of Llogara Pass and enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
   - Continue on to the town of Sarandë, where you can see ancient monuments.
 
2. Theth Mountain Oasis:
   • Head to Theth National Park to explore picturesque mountain villages and valleys.
   - Visit the Grunas Waterfall and enjoy mountain hikes and walks.
   This route will take you to the heart of Albania's alpine environment.
 
3. Coastal Towns and Korab Mountains:
   - Start in the town of Shkodër and drive along the north coast to the town of Lezhë.
   - Then, head to the Korab Mountains and enjoy the mountain landscapes and traditional Albanian villages.
 
4. Albanian Riviera and Gjirokastra:
   - Start in the town of Sarandë and walk along the Albanian Riviera towards the north.
   - Visit the ancient city of Gjirokastra and see its stone houses and historical monuments.
   This tour combines a visit to the beaches with an exploration of cultural heritage.
 
5. Lake Ohrid & Galicica Mountains:
   - Cross the border into North Macedonia and visit Lake Ohrid.
   • Then, head to the Galicica Mountains to enjoy mountain hikes and panoramic views of the lake.
 
Each of these routes allows you to explore different aspects of Albania and experience the unique beauty of the country. However, when planning, check for up-to-date information on access and permits in national parks and protected areas. Enjoy your trip!
 
Tips for the best campsites to try on your trip to Albania:
Albania is a beautiful and varied destination that you should definitely not miss when planning a motorhome holiday. Here are tips for campsites the destination offers:
 
Camping Biofarm Reci 
Camping Peshkopi
Camping Boga Alpine Resort
Camping Gjirokaster
Camping Clandestino
Camping Dajti
Camping Villa Juri
Berat Caravan Camping
The Sea Turtle Camping Dhermi
Gjipe Eco Camping
 
Campsites in Albania start at 350 CZK/night for 2 adults.
 
What to see in Albania?
 
Theth – is a picturesque village in the heart of the Albanian Alps, surrounded on three sides by mountain ridges over 2000 meters high. In recent years, it has become a lively tourist resort, which is one of the most visited places in the entire mountain range. However, the attractiveness of Theth lies not only in its beautiful location in the middle of the mountains, but also in the number of cultural and natural sights.
 
Krujë – The town of Krujë was the center of resistance during the Turkish campaign in the 15th century.
 
Tirana – Albania's capital and by far the largest city is practically the real center of the country and, thanks to its international airport, also very touristy. Tirana does not impress with its many monuments, but it offers a very pleasant atmosphere of shady streets densely planted with trees, countless cafes, restaurants, bakeries and bars.
 
Albanian Riviera - between the Llogara pass and the town of Saranda you will find the most beautiful Albanian beaches, e.g. Palasa Beach, Gjipe
 
Butrint – the most visited historical area in Albania and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
 
Syri i Kalter – this is an underground spring rising at a depth of more than 45 meters below the surface into a circular lake. 
 
Thermal springs in Benje- the springs are located a few kilometers from the turn-off from the main road connecting Përmetis with the Greek border and the town of Korçë (turn-off before the village of Petran – Rruga e Benjes road).
 
Lake Komani – A cruise on Lake Komani, surrounded by steep cliffs, is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
 
Beaches in Albania:

Palasa - The beach is full of white sand, which is not much affected by tourists, except for one nightclub, a few restaurants and cafes.
Dhermi - Dhermi is the most famous beach in Albania. Although a lot of people go to the beach, everyone will find their own quiet place. There are high rocks and a dark, beautiful sea. 
Ksamil - For Albanians, it's something like Mácháč for Czechs. It is very popular, so you will come across a large number of locals here. The beach is located in a bay where there are three islets in the sea. You can rent a boat on the beach and explore all three one by one. Ksamil is the beach that is closest to the Greek island of Corfu, if you try, you might catch a glimpse.
Bunec - A magical place where you will come across very few people. A small white pebble beach, which is divided by a river that leads from the mountains. This beach is said to have the most beautiful sunsets. 
Himara - It has its own charm, the disadvantage is the locals and tourists in the season. If you want to enjoy your tranquility, head about 3 kilometers north, where Livadhia Beach is hidden. It's a beautiful, rocky beach right below the vineyard. 
Borsh - A seven-kilometer long beach that is more or less undiscovered. However, it is recommended to visit as soon as possible, as local merchants see profit in this beach, so most of the land is already dismantled and plans for the construction of hotels are already on the table.