Albania
Shkodër | Shala River | Kruje | Durres | Vlore | Dhermi | Himara | Ksamil
Crossing the border from Montenegro into Albania, unfortunately we had to miss out the stunning Teth due to time constraints. But from speaking to other travellers, this 100% should be on your Albania itinerary.
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Shkodër
Crossing the border from Montenegro our first stop was Shkoder - with stunning views of the Lake. A day in Shkoder is more than enough but we found the perfect camp spot with pool and a fab atmosphere, so decided to stay a little longer. We took a day trip to Shala River from here due to time constraints but could have definitely stayed longer.
Approx: 1 -2 Days
Top Things To Do:
Visit Rozafa Castle
Go to a View Point for Views Of The Lake
Take a Day Trip to Shala River
Wander Around Shkoder City
Where To Stay :
We stayed at Camping Legjenda which was very reasonably priced - with pool, restaurant and bar. It was prime location for Campers/ Motorhomes crossing the border, so may be worth pre booking in high seasons!
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Shala River
We booked on a day trip here from Shkoder but noticed on the way that there were lots of campers parked up and camping options close by to where the boat leaves - with stunning views. There is no road access to Shala River itself, so a ferry is required. It is perfect for a day trip or an over night stay in one of the unique shacks - with lots of secure park spots leave to your car/ camper at Komani Lake - prior to taking the ferry.
Approx: 1 -2 Days
Top Things To Do:
Hire a Kayak
Stay in one of the Unique Accommodations
Have A Go on the Zip Line
Swim & Relax
Be Sure To Book Your Boat Or Day Trip Before You Go!
Where To Stay :
We spotted Camping Komani on route to Shala River which had amazing views for just 10 Euros. But if you're wanting to save some ££, there was plenty of wild camp spots on route.
Krujë
Perfect spot for a day trip. The little town of Krujë gives you a real feel of Albanian Tradition/ Culture, with cobbled streets, shops and some of the best local food we had on our trip through Albania.
Approx: 1 Day
Top Things To Do:
Have Lunch or Dinner With A View
Kruja Bazaar
Visit Castle Of Kruja
Visit the National Museum
Where To Stay :
We ended up staying in Kruje for the night so we could hit the road early in the morning. The local parking lots allow you to stay overnight for a small charge.
Durrës
Our first beach stop of the trip! We’d heard good things about Albanian beaches & yes Durres is worth a visit to break up that journey - but it’s nothing compared to the coast further down South.
Approx: 2 Days
Top Things To Do:
Volunteer at a Dog Shelter
Get a Day Pass to a Hotel Pool
Spend a Day at The Beach
Visit the Durres Amphitheatre
If you are thinking of doing some volunteering during your trip, we couldn’t recommend JETA more - the work they do is absolutely amazing. They even offered us free Parking for our stay and cooked us up some delicious meals in return for volunteering. Make Sure You Check Them Out Below:
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Where To Stay :
Durres was pretty strict when it came to wild camping, due to being a popular package holiday destination. However, there are lots of options on Park 4 Night if you're keen to take a risk. We got recommended ‘Wonderful Camping’.
Vlorë
Our second beach stop of the trip and at this point the beaches were already looking way nicer - with a small old town and bustling promenade. Alternatively, travel a little further down the coast for more beach bar / restaurant vibes!
Approx: 2 Days
Top Things To Do:
Spend a Day at The Beach
Visit Vlore Town
Hire a Bike & Cycle The Coast
Visit a Beach Bar / Restaurant
Visit the Night Market
Where To Stay :
Parking at Sunset Pizzeria Bar or if you drive further down the coast there are plenty of stops on the way!
Dhërmi & Himarë
Now this is the part of Albania we have been waiting for! Camping on the beach, the bluest waters and boat trips to secret caves - this was by far our favourite stop in Albania.
Approx: 2-3 Days
Top Things To Do:
Wild Camp on Drymades Beach
Visit Palasa Beach
Walk or Short Drive to Dhermi Beach - FAVE SPOT
Have Lunch or Dinner at Dhermi Beach
Visit Gjipe Beach for The Day
Take a Boat Trip to Pigeon Cave
Where To Stay :
We stayed directly on Drymades Beach, which was was surrounded by other campers, with lots of bars & restaurants close by!
Ksamil
& the beaches just keep getting better… Ksamil is the post popular destination when visiting Albania -with beach bars and restaurants. However, we found it a little over crowded but maybe that’s just because we visited in high season! Either way, there’s lots of hidden gems close by!
Approx: 2-3 Days
Things To DO:
Visit one of the many Beach Bars
Day Trip to Mirror Beach - Our Fave!
Take a Boat Trip
Water Activities
Dinner at one of the Beachside Restaurants
Where To Stay :
Ksamil was waaaay too busy for us due to being there in peak season - so we decided to drive to mirror beach (10mins) and park up there. It was also a much cheaper option!