Albania

We recommend starting with a night in Tirana for a quick history lesson and to get the lay of the land before heading into the mountains. From Tirana, head east toward the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared between Albania and North Macedonia. On the Albanian shore, the ancient village of Lin is worth a visit with its historic lakeside settlements and early Christian mosaics. Cross into North Macedonia by bike and spin around the lake on scenic paved roads. Kayak on the crystal-clear waters mirroring the nearby mountain views. Spend the night at Villa Bisera, a lakeside retreat overlooking the water, or cross back to the Albanian side and stay at the charming Seven Café & Hotel.

Continue south to the city of Korçë. Wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Bazaar, browse local artisan shops and enjoy the city’s lively café culture. Stay at Life Gallery Hotel & Spa, housed within several historic buildings and reimagined with a minimalist design and contemporary interiors. Hit the spa for a traditional hammam or experience the salt room. Consider continuing by bike to the rural Ersekë for a night at Sofra Kolonjare. Set on an organic livestock and produce farm at the base of Gramos Mountain, explore the surrounding countryside on foot and enjoy a classic Albanian meal featuring local produce directly from the farm, accompanied with traditional live music.

No visit to Albania would be complete without exploring its UNESCO World Heritage cities. In Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” rows of white Ottoman houses line the hillside beneath Berat Castle. Nearby, Osumi Canyon forms the iconic landscape, offering unique opportunities for hiking, rafting on class II-III rapids, and canyoning explorations. Further south, Gjirokastër captivates visitors with its steep cobblestone streets, stone-roofed Ottoman homes, and ancient fortress overlooking the Drinos Valley. Stay at Çumaku Boutique Hotel, a charming property in the heart of the old town – perfectly positioned for exploring the castle, Cold War tunnels, and lively bazaar. Between towns, stop in Përmet and trade your cycling kit for a bathing suit. Soak in the Bënja Thermal Baths or stretch your legs with a hike through the Langarica River Canyon.

From the mountains, descend into Albania’s coastline and enjoy the bustling beach towns of Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë, and Vlorë. On your way to the Rivera visit the famous Blue Eye, a striking natural spring known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. Nearby, explore the archaeological site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman ruins. For those seeking a quiet stretch of coast, the emerging Green Coast region between Vlorë and Himarë has caught our attention. With secluded beaches and promising new properties such as the Green Coast Hotel from the MGallery Collection, we’re watching closely for future journeys!

Just a 30-minute ferry from the coastal town of Sarandë, the Greek island of Corfu makes for an easy extension to your journey. Stay at the luxury Olivar Suites, a restored 18^th century olive mill with direct access to the Ionian Sea. For a more secluded escape, retreat to the Corfu Imperial, set on its own private peninsula. Whether ending on the Albanian Rivera or extending to Corfu, it’s a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey.