Why did we pick Albania you ask? Well, why not! We needed a last-minute holiday and fancied something hot but a bit different. Little did we know we would completely fall in love with the place.
Follow our road trip from Tirana airport to the South of Albania…

1. Start at Durres

About 30 minutes from the airport, Durres is a cute port town with a beautiful long beach. We arrived late at night and stayed at Vila Dedej, a lovely hotel with private parking and just few minutes walk from the sea. Worth mentioning at this point is that many hotels and apartments have noisy air handling systems on the roof, so it might be worth bringing ear plugs.
We had the best Petulla breakfast at Saly Restaurant along the promenade. You’re going to want to get involved with that! Excellent coffee. Don’t worry about the crepes. Just enjoy the tasty Petulla by the sea!

2. Stop at St Mary’s Monastery, Vlore

 

The drive to St Mary’s Monastery, a medival Byzantine church, was amazing, only 15 minutes away from Vlore and tucked away in a little peninsula. It’s definitely worth the detour. Entry is completely free and the floating walkway adds to the charm.

3. Visit the bunkers on the cliff

Before leaving St Mary’s Monastary, park at the intersection and walk for about 30 minutes to the side of the cliff. We spotted these bunkers on the map by chance. We didn’t have the right footwear (or the guts) to go inside, but these bunkers are unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. Oh, and they’re guarded by judgemental goats. That’s right… goats.
4. Take the coastal road through the Riviera
This new road offers the best views of the Albanian Riviera.
5. Gjipe beach
Now this place was incredible. The beach is stunning but the canyon behind it is what really makes it special. Parking was 400lek for half a day then it’s about 30 minutes walk down the mountain. It’s not too tricky but you need good shoes.
Here’s where to park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/sjgKSdjVbvYAUAaA7
6. Potami beach, Himare
We had to stop to watch the sunset here. It also found our favourite beach bar. The staff where so sweet and welcoming.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WDVkXTiNAtaqUeeGA
SARANDË
We left our hearts in Sarandë. This is the best spot if you want to put up camp for a few days and visit different sites.
Here’s are some ideas:
Accomodation:
IO’S Apartments https://g.co/kgs/vTMo9LX
We loved this family run apartment. Extremely helpful and friendly. Joana even lent us some beach towels!