The Getaway
Saranda's city port at ionian sea. Albania.

For many years, Albania didn't allow access to outsiders. Its lush forests, towering mountains, and sparkling waters remained a mystery to much of their world. Throughout the 20th century, the region bore the marks of several wars and grew to outlast them. With the fall of a particularly restrictive communist regime in 1991, Albania began to allow tourists to enter its borders. New visitors came the country with little idea of what they might find. They discovered a land full of majesty and beauty, regardless of the strict rules that still gripped the area.

As the years passed, Albania managed to shed the codes and standards that once gripped the country. Visitors have begun to trickle into the country and discover what exactly it has to offer. There are popular sites such as the ancient Greek and Roman ruins, legendary castles, and dynamic cities. Beyond those, however, are several sites and scenes that remain hidden from the casual visitor. In many cases, these are the areas that exemplify what makes Albania one of the most incredible countries in the Balkans and the world.

Advertisement

01 Kalaja

old houses in historic landmark berat balkan town albania jackmalipan / Getty Images

When describing a site in countries like Albania, people will often say it's like something out of a movie. Though this may seem cheesy or overstated, it truly is the perfect description of the quiet, misty fortress on the outskirts of Berat. The castle peers over the surrounding village from its perch on the precipice of a large hill. During the spring and summer months, the scents of chamomile and wildflowers fill the air as you walk along the cobbled streets.

Advertisement

02 Gjirokastër and its Castle

Gjirokastra Castle Albania unesco World heritage sightseeing Nachteule / Getty Images

Between the Gjerë mountains and the Drino river is a large valley that contains the ancient city of Gjirokastër. Overlooking the city is a striking monument that is both legendary and somewhat eerie, Gjirokastër Fortress. Historically, former leaders in the area used the castle as a prison to hold their many enemies. Since the fall of the previous government, the castle has become a popular site that is now the home of many annual festivals with live music, and local food.

Advertisement

03 Gjipe Beach

Gjipe beach with rocks and river in Albania RossHelen / Getty Images

Though visitors have slowly begun to trickle into Albania, many of its most beautiful locations remain hidden from the casual tourist. The easiest way to reach Gjipe beach is a boat journey from the nearby Jala beach that takes you across the crystalline waters the beaches share. Fans of hiking may choose to instead follow the narrow, winding road and enjoy the crisp sea breeze. When you arrive at the beach, you'll discover a hidden paradise with white sands and magnificent cliffs overlooking the coast.

Advertisement

04 Bogovë Waterfalls

Fall in Theth, Grunas Canyon, Albania Bogovë Waterfalls / Getty Images

Many people think of waterfalls as large pillars of water that crash with a thunderous noise, but the Bogovë waterfalls are a little different. If you're stopping in Berat, consider taking time out of your day to visit these small but beautiful falls. From a glance, the waterfalls appear to wind in and out of the rocks before gently emptying out into a shaded, turquoise pool. Visitors are free to swim in the pool, though the water is incredibly cold even during Summer.

Advertisement

05 Blue Eye Spring

Blue Eye (water spring) with clear blue water summer view j-wildman / Getty Images

If you look at images of any spring, lake, or river in Albania, you'll find that they each have a piercing and beautiful turquoise color. Even among these striking waters, the Blue Eye Spring stands out as something truly special. A thick forest surrounds the deep blue pool and provides a calm area to breathe and take in the sights. Though the area is popular, it remains relatively empty during most months.

Advertisement

06 Amphitheater of Durrës

Old roman amphitheater in Durres, Albania CCat82 / Getty Images

Albania's second most populous city, Durrës, is home to many interesting sites, but few hold the historical majesty that its amphitheater possesses. Dating back to 2nd century BCE, the ruins sit on a hillside and could once seat up to 18,000 people. An ancient chapel within the amphitheater contains several gorgeous mosaics. Guides are available during much of the day and can explain the history of the ruins and various houses that have since populated the area.

Advertisement

07 Bazaar in Krujë

The Skanderbeg Museum in Kruje, Albania.

Albania is full of history, and many of the locals hold a great amount of respect for their past. In 2015, the town of Krujë finished restoring their 400-year-old Ottoman-style bazaar. Visitors can tour through the winding streets and browse a variety of local wares, such as custom rugs or copper products. If you're looking for something that is easy to take home, some sellers offer silver jewelry and other small, handcrafted items.

Advertisement

08 Tirana

Monument of Skanderbeg in Scanderbeg Square in the center of Tirana, Albania

The city of Tirana is Albania's capital, and, at one point, appeared on many lists as Europe's worst city. However, the city has maintained its chaotic energy but used it to evolve into a cultural and entertainment center of Albania. Because it's a relatively small city, you can visit most of Tirana's center area in a day and discover buildings that look more like a Wes Anderson set. Make sure to sample the city's often-overlooked cuisine and cafe culture.

Advertisement

09 The Bunkers of Albania

Close-up of one of the countless military concrete bunkers or dots in the southern Albania built during the communist government of Enver Hoxha Kateryna Mashkevych / Getty Images

Enver Hoxha ruled over Albania as a Stalinist dictator for four decades. When Stalin died, Hoxha ended Albania's allegiance with the USSR and began trying to make Albania self-sufficient. During his control, Hoxha ordered the construction of innumerable concrete and steel bunkers to protect the country against his former Soviet allies. Since the fall of Hoxha, they act as both a unique attraction covered in graffiti and a historical reminder of the terrors of Stalinism.

Advertisement

10 Duka Winery and Vineyard

Vineyard in Lake Ohrid, Albania studiodr / Getty Images

Deep in the winding hills of Ishmi, Durrës sits the elegant Duka Winery and their vineyards that stretch across the horizon. The winery produces several types of wine: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo. It also offers wine tastings for visitors, though you will need a reservation if you wish to participate. It's the perfect stop for adults looking to unwind and relax with high-class drinks in a majestic place.

Advertisement

11 Rozafa Fortress and Shkodra Lake

Ruins of Rozafa Castle in Shkoder, Albania RuslanKaln / Getty Images

If you had to visit only one fortress in Albania, it would probably be best to visit Rozafa Fortress in Shkodra. Though much of the fortress is in ruins, it offers an incredible sight of Shkodra Lake and the city itself. If you're lucky, you might even find one of the tortoises that have come to call the area home. For a more energetic visit, you can rent a bicycle from one of the nearby hotels and ride along the paths south of the castle.

Advertisement

12 Benja Thermal Baths

 Beautiful shot of water falling out of a men made stone bath with an unfocused arched stone bridge in the background. Permet, Albania

In the Përmet District, simply cross a stone bridge over a meandering turquoise river and you'll find the Benja Thermal Baths. All of the water in this region, including the river itself, is incredibly warm to the touch. The river feeds several manmade baths that locals say have healing properties. Though the area is popular, there's still quite a bit of privacy because the region is a little out of the way.

Share

Scroll Down

for the Next Article

The Getaway Badge
Sign up to receive insider info and deals that will help you travel smarter.
Advertisement
Advertisement