Some of the most stunning beaches in Albania

Albania’s southern coastline is a photogenic corner of the country: a place of hamlets woven with cobblestoned streets and small Orthodox churches speckling the terrain. Inland there’s more in store – peaceful natural springs near Saranda, lake shores near the Macedonian border. Most importantly, beautiful beaches are in no short supply, rivalling nearby Greece with their white purity and transparent Adriatic shallows, where you can holiday for half the price. Here is our selection of the most stunning beaches in Albania.

Drymades

Looking west across the Adriatic Sea – direction southern Italy – Drymades gets super-fiery sunsets. But that’s for later – from the moment the day dawns it’s a stunner, with almost Maldivian-blue waters caught in a small bay. There is a pebbly stretch as well as a sandy expanse, the two divided by a large rock – and things never get crowded, even during summer. So if you’re looking for an alternative to the manic Med this June and July, here’s your answer.

Dhermi

Near Drymades, you’ll find Dhërmi, one of the most famous places in Albania thanks to its poster-lovely looks: an expanse of pale pebbles and rocks lapped by turquoise waters. This beach is one of the longest on the Albanian Riviera; in summer, it’s undoubtedly the busiest – and loudest, with music playing through speakers and accommodation full to the brim. But if you’re prepared to walk a little, you should be able to find a spot for your own solitude, even in August.

Ksamil

South of Saranda, you will come to Ksamil, one of the most-coveted beach destinations in Albania. Such is its beauty, it has been dubbed “the Ionian pearl”. The setting is truly dramatic, on a bay with three small islands you can reach by local boat, or swim out to if you’re feeling energetic, across startlingly turquoise waters. One piece of advice: think twice about heading here in August, because every inch of space is taken up by bronzing holidaymakers from Tirana.

Gjipe

Hidden from sight by cradling mountains, Gjipe is a perfect beach – essentially a byword for tranquillity and relaxation. The bay is some way from the road and to reach it you’ll need to trek for half an hour or more. That said, the going is very easy on the eye, through fragrant natural landscapes that reveal tantalising views of the coast to speed you on your way. No wonder some visitors decide to stay for a night or two – there are camping options on the beach.