Route Overview
About this Tour
Albania is the insider tip on the Mediterranean – still! While Croatia and Montenegro are overrun by tourists, the Albanian Riviera has retained its wild charm. Turquoise bays where you are often alone, authentic villages where time seems to have stood still, and prices that will make you rub your eyes. This route takes you from Tirana over the dramatic Llogara Pass (1,043m) down to the coast, where Ksamil with its islands awaits – not for nothing called the 'Albanian Maldives'. In between: UNESCO ruins in Butrint, fresh fish in Himara, and the warmest hospitality in the Balkans.
Your Journey in Detail
🏖️Tirana & Aufbruch
Tirana is colorful, chaotic, and full of surprises – the communist past meets wild capitalism. The bunker museums, the colorful Skanderbeg Square, and the lively bar scene are worth a day. Then it's on to Vlora, the gateway to the Riviera.
🏛️Llogara Pass & Coast
The Llogara Pass is breathtaking – at 1,043 meters the view of the bright blue Ionian Sea suddenly opens up. The descent in serpentines leads past Himara and Jala Beach, one of Albania's most beautiful beaches. The coastal road is sometimes adventurous but always spectacular.
🍽️Ksamil & Butrint
Ksamil is the highlight: four small islands lie off the coast, reachable by paddle boat or swimming. The water is so clear that you can see every stone on the bottom. Right next door is Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site – Greek, Roman, and Venetian ruins in lush vegetation.
💡Practical Tips
- ✓Cash is king! Many places do not accept cards, ATMs can be empty.
- ✓The roads are... adventurous. Drive defensively and expect the unexpected.
- ✓Camping is possible everywhere – ask as friendly as possible, usually you will be offered a place.
At a Glance
Duration
7-10 Tage
Distance
400 km
Difficulty
Moderate
Highlights
- ⭐Ksamil Inseln
- ⭐Butrint UNESCO Site
- ⭐Llogara-Pass