"Sunday Times": 10 best places to visit in Albania
Beaches that rival neighboring countries, alps, wild rivers and a lively and artistic capital that will leave you breathless on your first visit to Albania, writes Marianna Hunt in an article published in the British daily "Sunday Times". .
Albania offers Maldivian-style beaches, spectacular mountains and a fascinating history.
Be amazed by the diversity and beauty of its rivers, beaches, mountains and cities!
Below are the 10 best places to visit in Albania!
For those who are fascinated by descriptions of Albania as the "Maldives of Europe", Ksamil should be the first place to visit.
This seaside village offers sandy beaches, such as Bora Bora and Ksamil beach – many others are pebbly.
Also, there are four uninhabited islands, the "Islands of Ksamil", where you can swim or pedal from the main beach of Ksamil.
The very popular "Blue Eye" - it's about 50 minutes away by car.
This spring has waters so clear that you can see up to 50 meters deep or more.
2. Theth National Park
This national park is located at the foot of the Nemuna Mountains, known as the Albanian Alps, in the north of the country.
The area offers waterfalls, meadows and rushing river valleys. It's a great place for spotting wildlife – including wild goats, lynx, wolves and brown bears.
One of the best and easiest trails is the Theth Falls trail, about five miles.
For hikers, the 119-mile Balkan Peak Trail – which crosses Kosovo and Montenegro – is recommended.
Tirana offers a completely new post-communist view. Unlike Berlin or Warsaw, it is surprisingly colorful, with farmers' markets, leafy squares and art galleries.
It is known for its former military bunkers, which have been converted into trendy pizza parlors, artist studios and piercing studios.
On the Block – you can hang out at great craft breweries and visit exhibitions at the National Art Gallery.
Be sure to take the cable car to Malin e Dajti to enjoy the wonderful view over the city.
The city center is listed in Unesco thanks to its beauty and history. Beari is known as "the city of one window".
The walk to the 2,500-year-old Castle that crowns the cliff is steep, but worth a visit for the views it offers – while the region around Berat is renowned for its wines.
The rugged north of Albania is known for its majestic lakes and mountains. Lake Shkodra is the jewel in its crown, a large area dotted with beaches, monasteries and fishing villages.
In Shkodër, there is one of the most important fortresses of the Roman era.
One of Albania's most popular coastal destinations, Saranda offers a lively center with many restaurants and beach bars.
The sunsets overlooking the sea near the Leather Castle are especially spectacular – only 30 minutes drive to Ksamil.
Also, visit Butrint – Europe's most picturesque archaeological site.
Unlike the archaeological sites in Rome or Athens, this UNESCO site is not populated with tourists and you will be able to enjoy the view over a coastal lagoon.
7. National Park of Llogora
The park is located between several mountain peaks located at the northern end of the Albanian Riviera.
You can go hiking in dense pine forests. The Qorre Peak Trail offers a challenging climb – 6 miles with great views.
Most of the accommodations and restaurants in the park are located around the main visitor center.
Another Unesco-listed gem, Gjirokastra is sure to fascinate you with its 600 or so Ottoman-era palaces, restored bazaar and cobbled streets full of tempting shops and cafes.
You can explore the chilling Cold War tunnel or listen to one of the regular performances of Albanian folk music at "Te Kube", a cultural space, cafe and antique shop.
Kruja will transport you to an area of sultans and viziers with its Turkish baths, medieval castle and bustling bazaar where carpets and dried fruits can be found.
Kruja was the first capital of Albania and is located just an hour's drive north of Tirana.
Visit the Ethnographic Museum and immerse yourself in local folklore.
The oldest city of Albania, Durrës has a history of about 3000 years
Visit the Roman Amphitheater and the palace of King Zog, who took power, was crowned king and ruled until World War II.
This large seaside town also offers a 6-mile beach outside the center, which is popular during the summer.
For a quieter resort, head north to Kallmi Beach, which is smaller and more popular with locals.
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