Himara

Gjipe Beach is a hidden gem located between Dhermi and Himara, accessible via a short hike through a scenic canyon or by boat. This secluded beach is famous for its untouched natural beauty, featuring fine white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs that provide a sense of privacy and tranquility. The beach is also near the Gjipe Canyon, a spectacular natural formation that adds to the adventurous appeal of the destination. Visitors can explore the canyon's trails, enjoy rock climbing, or simply bask in the serene environment of the beach. Gjipe Beach is a perfect spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation in a breathtaking setting. Explorers can find a hidden sea cave at the eastern end of the beach, accessible only during low tide, containing mysterious 19th-century carvings on its walls. The beach gained fame as a filming location for a popular Balkan TV series about pirate legends, adding to its adventurous allure.

Himara Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in the region, known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sands. This stunning beach stretches along the town of Himara, providing ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The calm and inviting waters are ideal for families and tourists seeking a relaxing beach experience. Along the beachfront, visitors will find numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars offering local delicacies and refreshing drinks, enhancing the overall beach experience. The combination of natural beauty and modern amenities makes Himara Beach a favorite destination for both locals and international tourists, perfect for a day of relaxation and enjoyment by the sea. The beach is a nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles, with conservation efforts visible through protected zones marked along the shore. At sunset, local fishermen often demonstrate traditional net-casting techniques, offering visitors a glimpse into Albania's maritime heritage.

Llamani Beach is another stunning coastal attraction near Himara, known for its pebbly shore and azure waters. This beach is slightly more rugged compared to others, giving it a unique charm and making it a favorite among those who appreciate more natural and less commercialized beach environments. The waters here are incredibly clear, ideal for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. Llamani Beach is surrounded by lush greenery and cliffs, creating a secluded and peaceful atmosphere. There are a few beach bars and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local cuisine while taking in the spectacular views. It's a great place for both relaxation and water activities, providing a tranquil escape from the more crowded beaches in the region. Local legend claims that a sunken Venetian shipwreck lies just offshore, with occasional ceramic artifacts washing up after winter storms. The beach's distinctive "Eagle Rock" formation serves as a popular diving spot, featuring an underwater arch teeming with colorful parrotfish.

Porto Palermo Castle, also known as Ali Pasha Castle, is a historic fortress situated on a small peninsula in the bay of Porto Palermo, near Himara. Built by Ali Pasha of Tepelena in the early 19th century, the castle is renowned for its unique triangular shape and strategic location. The castle's walls are well-preserved, and visitors can explore its dark corridors and rooms, imagining the times when it was a crucial military stronghold. The surrounding landscape is equally captivating, with pristine waters and rugged coastlines offering a picturesque backdrop. The area is perfect for a leisurely walk, providing panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the Albanian Riviera, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Archaeologists recently discovered hidden tunnels beneath the fortress that may have been used for covert operations during the Ottoman era. During summer nights, the castle hosts open-air theater performances against the backdrop of moonlit sea views.

Perched high above the Ionian Sea, the ghostly village of Old Qeparo is a hauntingly beautiful relic of Albania's past, offering a stark contrast to Himara's sun-soaked beaches. Abandoned in the 1990s during mass emigration, this labyrinth of crumbling stone houses and overgrown pathways clings to a mountainside, blending eerily into the rugged landscape of the Ceraunian Mountains. Accessible via a steep, winding road or a scenic 2-hour hike from modern Qeparo, the village transports visitors to another era. Its slate-roofed homes, once inhabited by generations of Albanian families, now stand roofless, with vines spilling through empty windows and wildflowers carpeting courtyards. The Byzantine-era Church of St. Nicholas, partially intact with faded frescoes, serves as a silent witness to the village's spiritual heritage.