NEW KID ON THE BLOCK - ALBANIA
In the Balkans, Albania is a hidden gem with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. This underrated European destination offers a plethora of exciting experiences for travellers. From exploring ancient ruins to basking on pristine beaches and savouring delicious cuisine, Albania has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the best things to do in Albania to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Explore the Ancient City of Butrint
Photo by Renaldo Kodra
Start your Albanian adventure with a visit to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city boasts well-preserved ruins from various periods, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian. Stroll through the atmospheric amphitheatre, admire the mosaic floors of the Baptistery, and explore the Venetian castle for a captivating journey through history.
Key Attractions in Butrint
The Amphitheater: One of the most iconic landmarks in Butrint is its ancient amphitheatre, which dates back to the 3rd century BC. This well-preserved venue once hosted various performances and events, and today, visitors can stand in the centre of history, taking in the acoustics and imagining the spectacles that once took place here.
The Baptistery: The early Christian Baptistery of Butrint is a gem of early Christian art and architecture. It boasts well-preserved mosaic floors adorned with intricate designs and biblical scenes. The Baptistery provides a glimpse into the religious life of Butrint during the Byzantine era.
Venetian Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the ancient city, the Venetian Castle is a striking symbol of Butrint's more recent history. Built in the 14th century, this castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the beautiful Vivari Channel and the Ionian Sea.
The Lion's Gate: As you explore the ancient city, you'll come across the Lion's Gate, a magnificent entrance adorned with a relief of a lion. This gate is a well-preserved example of Hellenistic architecture and serves as a gateway into the heart of the city.
Discover the Beauty of the Albanian Riviera
Photo by Abenteuer Albanien
The Albanian Riviera is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and charming coastal villages, it's a must-visit destination. Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at Dhërmi, Jale, or Ksamil, and hike along the Llogara Pass for breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea.
Here are more details about the Albanian Riviera and what makes it a must-visit destination:
Pristine Beaches: The Albanian Riviera is known for its exquisite beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft, pebble-like sand. Some of the most renowned beaches include:
Dhërmi Beach: A long, picturesque beach surrounded by olive groves and pine forests. It offers excellent swimming and water sports opportunities.
Jale Beach: A peaceful and family-friendly spot with clear waters and a relaxed vibe.
Ksamil Beach: Famous for its tiny islets just offshore, this beach offers a unique and enchanting landscape.
Gjipe Beach: Nestled between towering cliffs, Gjipe Beach is an isolated gem accessible by a hike or boat ride. It's a perfect spot for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Llogara Pass: To reach the Albanian Riviera from the interior of the country, you'll pass through the dramatic Llogara Pass. This winding mountain road offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the coast below, making it a must-stop for stunning photographs and a sense of adventure.
Coastal Villages: The Albanian Riviera is dotted with charming coastal villages, each with its unique character and charm. While exploring the region, you'll encounter traditional stone houses, family-run restaurants serving delicious seafood, and locals who are warm and welcoming. Dhërmi, Himarë, and Vuno are some of the quaint villages worth exploring.
Outdoor Activities: Beyond sunbathing and swimming, the Albanian Riviera offers a range of outdoor activities. You can go hiking in the nearby Llogara Pass or explore the Gjipe Canyon. Water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking are popular in this area. Additionally, the coastal cliffs provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing.
Culture and History: Despite its natural beauty, the Albanian Riviera is not devoid of cultural and historical attractions. In the village of Himarë, you can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Orikum. Also, consider visiting the Lëkurësi Castle near Sarandë, which offers panoramic views of the coastline and the Greek island of Corfu.
Budget-Friendly: One of the most appealing aspects of the Albanian Riviera is its affordability. Compared to other Mediterranean destinations, you'll find that accommodations, food, and activities are budget-friendly, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking for value without compromising on beauty.
Relish Albanian Cuisine
Photo by Karol Chomka
Albanian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Balkan flavours. Savour traditional dishes such as burek (a savoury pastry), tave kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt), and qofte (minced meat patties). Don't forget to try fresh seafood along the coast and indulge in local wines and raki, a potent fruit brandy.
Here are some classic Albanian dishes that offer a glimpse into the country's culinary heritage:
Tave Kosi (Baked Lamb with Yoghurt): Tave Kosi is one of Albania's most iconic dishes. It consists of tender pieces of lamb or beef that are marinated and then baked in a delicious yoghurt sauce. The yoghurt adds a creamy tanginess to the dish, and it's often served with rice or bread.
Fërgesë: Fërgesë is a hearty dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and a combination of meats, often veal and sausage. It's spiced with garlic, onions, and paprika, and then topped with a generous amount of feta cheese. Fërgesë can be served as a main course or a side dish.
Byrek: Byrek is a popular savoury pastry in Albania, similar to the Greek Spanakopita. It's made by layering thin sheets of dough with various fillings, such as spinach, cheese, meat, or leeks. Byrek is often enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a quick meal.
Qofte: Albanian qofte are deliciously spiced meatballs, typically made from a mixture of minced meat (usually beef or lamb), onions, and various herbs and spices. These meatballs are often grilled or fried and can be served with a side of salad or pita bread.
Tave Elbasani: Tave Elbasani is a dish named after the city of Elbasan in central Albania. It features layers of sliced eggplant, tomatoes, and minced meat (usually lamb or beef), all seasoned with garlic, onion, and herbs. The layers are then baked to perfection, resulting in a comforting and aromatic dish.
Baklava: While Baklava is enjoyed across the Middle East and Balkans, Albanian Baklava has its own unique twist. It consists of layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts (often walnuts or almonds), and a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and lemon juice. Albanian Baklava is known for its less sweet and more nutty flavour.
Flija: Flija is a traditional Albanian dish that's a labour of love. It's a layered pancake made from simple ingredients like flour, water, and salt. Each layer is thinly spread and cooked on a special round plate. Flija is often served with yoghurt, honey, or jam.
Tavë Karkaleca: This is a flavourful dish made with sautéed cuttlefish or squid, cooked with onion, tomato, and a mix of Mediterranean herbs and spices. It's a coastal delicacy and showcases Albania's proximity to the Adriatic Sea.
Kështjellët: Kështjellët, meaning "little castles," is a type of stuffed pasta similar to ravioli. These small pasta pockets are typically filled with a mixture of cheese and herbs and served with a variety of sauces, such as tomato or yoghurt-based sauces.