In addition to the various mountain ranges that stretch along the eastern part of Albania, its southwestern coast is home to heavenly beaches where the sun shines and umbrellas provide the necessary shade for beachgoers, according to an article published in the American daily CN Traveler (Condé Nast Traveler). .

While its sandy coastline was a secret for a long time – compared to its better-known neighbors – Croatia and Greece – Albania is becoming increasingly popular among international tourists.

The beaches of Albania can turn into a summer romance that you will never forget!

Amazing blue skies, a wild and dramatic coastline and warm Mediterranean waters lapping at your feet – Welcome to Albania!

Grama Bay

Small and attractive, with fine, white sand, Grama Bay is hidden between steep cliffs and surrounded by lush vegetation.

The easiest way to visit it is from the sea given its remote and isolated location.

It offers exactly what you want to find on your Albanian beach vacation, including the stunning turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

Don't miss the ancient inscriptions on the nearby rocks dating back to Roman and Greek times.

New Beach and Cold Water, near Vlora

These two beaches are the gateway to the Albanian Riviera - where the best beaches in Albania are located.

Vlora, located just over 90 miles from the Albanian capital, Tirana, is a port city – where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet and cliffs line the coast.

The city attracts a variety of tourists who find different beaches and atmospheres for every taste.

If you're looking for a lively party atmosphere, the bars of New Beach await you. If you prefer something less crowded then head to Cold Water – which is more secluded.

Llamani, in Himare

Himara, a charming seaside village is located on the Albanian Riviera.

As well as being a popular beach resort, there is a quiet village where life goes on for a long time, with fishermen congregating in traditional taverns after a long day at sea.

It is the true reflection of one of Albania's best beaches – open to international travelers but not forgetting its roots.

The best place to enjoy the sun and sea near Himara is at Llaman, a beach favored by the locals.

Nestled between two hills, this pebbly cove is the ideal place to lay down your towel and marvel at the Mediterranean.

Bunec

Buneci is about 30 kilometers from the city of Saranda – and many visitors are attracted by the bright lights and festive atmosphere.

In Bunec, you will find a quiet beach with white pebbles – just as beautiful as Saranda.

There are a few traditional cafes and a hotel – from where you can hear the sound of the waves – and who wants more than that?

Crushed

In Dhërmi you will find fine sand, white pebbles and centuries-old olive trees, but also colorful sunbeds and umbrellas, trendy beach bars – and a variety of accommodation, from the most modest to five-star hotels.

It is considered the coolest beach in Albania.

Saranda

Saranda is also one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans with an atmosphere that often feels similar to that found in many of Spain's Mediterranean resorts.

The city is experiencing a construction boom and the hills behind the sea are filled with hotels and apartment buildings under construction.

Borscht

Just south of Qeparoi, the road to Borsh is dazzling, cut by cliffs and coves on one of the country's most dramatic coastal roads.

The beach, surprisingly little visited in Albania, is surrounded by olive trees and hills.

The landscape conveys the image of the former Mediterranean, which has managed to survive in its pure, untouched state.

Ksamil Islands

If we had to compile a list of the best beach destinations in Albania, the Ksamil Islands would be at least in the top three, if not in first place.

This archipelago, 12 miles from Saranda, is more than just a picture postcard.

Instead, it feels like a dream: four forested islands in the middle of an incredible sea of ​​turquoise waters.

The beaches are white sand – a rarity in an area where pebbles are more common.

As you look out into the horizon, you'll see a number of other islands that look so close you'll want to reach out and touch them!

Cut off

Qeparoi is one of the most under-the-radar and least visited beaches on the Albanian Riviera.

This photogenic village has two cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean – a sight that would look stunning on canvas – or on Instagram, of course, without any filters.

While talking about the beaches of Albania, the beach of Qeparoi still manages to remain a secret.

Durrës

Don't be intimidated by the size of Durrës, the second most populous city in Albania.

As well as some popular sites – such as the Amphitheater and the Roman Baths – it's blessed with a stretch of coastline some 6 miles long – you're sure to find a sun lounger where you can lay your towel.

Gjilek

On the southern coast of Albania, near the village of Dukat, you will find a less known beach called - Gjileke.

The fact that it is so difficult to access has helped preserve its pristine and untouched nature.

It can only be reached by boat or on foot for almost half an hour along a path that starts in the village of Gjileke and crosses a wonderful canyon.

As soon as you arrive, its high cliffs with crystal clear waters will appear before you. /ATSh/