13 Amazing Places to visit in Albania
Albania, a small and undiscovered country, is the perfect place to come and visit the beautiful natural landscapes. If you want to discover some breathtaking views here is a list of the places that must be traveled.
1. Shala River
Shala river also known as the hidden paradise of Albania and also the Albanian Thailand is one of the most beautiful destinations of this country. Found inside the Albanian Alps this destination is only reachable by boat. To go there you must follow the road to Vau I Dejes and then take the boat to Lake Koman. Summertime is perfect for a journey in Shala river and experience the beautie of the nature.
2. The Blue Eye, Theth
The Blue Eye of Theth is a magnificient destionation. It is located down on Kaprre, the name of the beautiful village in the Alps. To arrive at the Blue Eye you must pass through the rare beautie of Grunas waterfall. The fresh air and the panoramic view are just a piece of what expects you as soon as you arrive in the destination. While you are there you can enjoy the beauty of the Blue Eye and there is also a place made by woods where you can sit and enjoy the tranquility.
3. The Blue Eye, Saranda
Considered a natural jewel, the wonder of Blue Eye in Albania, attracts so many tourist from around the world. A popular tourist attraction, the clear blue water of the river bubbles forth from a stunning deep pool. Divers have descended to fifty meters, but it is still unclear what the actual depth of the carst hole is. The water that comes out has a constant temperature of 10 degrees Celsius. The Blue Eye spring, is the initial water source of Bistricë river, 25 km long, which ends in the Ionian Sea south of Sarandë.
4. Syri i Cikllopit
The eye of the Cyclops (Syri i Cikllopit) is definitely a weekend getaway. It is one of the most frequented destinations near Tirana. A hidden pearl that attracts all those who want to explore nature and find tranquility once they arrive to the destination. What is unique about this place are the small cataracts surrounded by rock formations that create a panorama hard to see elsewhere.
5. Rana e Hedhun
Only 2,5 km north of Shen Gjin in the foot of the hills there is the famous beach of “Powdered sand” or “Thrown Sand” (Rana e Hedhun). This beach remains relatively unexplored by the larger population of tourists. It is an unusual beach because the hill is filled with sand and it descends onto the sea. There are also pine trees that surround the area makig it a perfect spot for camping or picnics.
6. Koman Lake
Surrounded by dense forested hills, vertical slopes, a narrow valley, found in norther Albania, there is the lake of Koman. This destination is one the undisputed highlights of Albania. It was created in 1978 when the Drin River was dammed and as result there is a spectacular mountain scenery. This view can be seen by ferry that is set up for tourism and that makes the entire trip feel like a great adventure.
7. Sotira Waterfall
Talking about waterfalls in Albania there is the Sotira waterfall flowing from Mount Tomorr. It is one of nature’s spectacles that has served as an attraction for tourists year after year. To go there your journey begins in the town of Gramsh that is only 16 km from the waterfall. First you enter the village of Sotira and you have to hike for about an hour and a half enjoying the nature and arrive in this spectacular destination.
8. Grunas Waterfall
The most popular tourist spot of the entire area, Thethi. Located 70 km from Shkodra, it is a journey you’ll want to have your camera ready for, full of extended mountain views, with water cascading down craggy hillsides and trees reaching for sunlight on rocky slopes. The area is rich in sights such as the waterfall of Grunas, 30 m high, the amazing cold-water sources of Okol, and the caves of Birrat me Rrathë (Round Holes) and Mount Arapi.
9. Valbona valley
Valbona Valley National Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Albania. Located 25 km from Bajram Curri, the park features impressive scenery comprised of high alpine ridges and the Valbona Valley. Diverse plants and animal species invite recreation, sightseeing, and scientific study.
10. Karavasta
Karavasta lagoon has been protected since 1994 by the Ramsar International Convention. Recognized for its ecological treasures, the park offers some truly unique spectacles. The park is home to many diverse and beautiful plant and animal species, including rare birds like the endangered Crispy Pelican. This park is the most western nesting point of this kind of bird in all Europe. The Karavasta Lagoon is one of the largest lagoons in the Mediterranean Sea and is home to the Dalmatian Pelican, as well as over 250 bird, mammal, and amphibian species. Five percent of the world’s Dalmatian Pelican population is found in this lagoon.
11. Osumi Canyons
The Osumi Canyons are the perfect destinations for those who aim adventure. It is a river canyon in southern Albania, near the town of Corovoda. This canyon offers a lot of underground passages and unexplored caves. During the spring, high water from melting snow makes it possible to explore the whole length of the canyon from the river.In this area, you can practice water sports like canoeing, rafting and kayaking.
12. Llogara
Llogara Pass is where the snow meets the sea. As impossible as that may sound it is true. While you drive down the road in winter you can enjoy the breathtaking view of the snow perfectly combined with the crystal deep water of the sea. It is also the road that leads you to the beautiful Ionian coast beaches.In Llogara mountain is also located the National Park of Llogara dividing the point between the Adriatic and Ionian seas.
13. Prespa Lake
Prespa National Park is the largest park in Albania. It is 27,750 ha and touches the Prespa lakes. The park extends to the borders of Macedonia and Greece and is known regionally as Balkan Park under an agreement signed by the three countries. Archaeological treasures mingle with varied plant and animal species, forming a truly unique and spectacular park. The Castle of Trajan and several Byzantine-era churches feature magnificent frescoes, which draw historians and sightseers alike. The Treni Cave is also located within the park boundaries and is noted for its ancient cave paintings. Remnants of Neolithic settlements hint at the rich history and serve to further enhance the natural beauty.
