Opposite the Greek island of Corfu, Saranda (Albania) represents a quintessential Mediterranean destination, characterized by five months of warm weather and a selection of idyllic beaches along its coastline. A typical scene around Saranda features a pebbly bay embraced by clear turquoise waters and overlooked by limestone hills adorned with fragrant scrub and olive trees. Visitors can choose between popular resorts offering family-friendly activities or secluded beaches nestled within natural reserves. Furthermore, if relaxation by the sea is not sufficient, one can explore charming seaside villages, significant natural landmarks, and, notably, Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological park.
Summary
1. The Town’s Bay
Saranda’s primary beach is a horseshoe-shaped bay featuring a combination of sand and pebbles adjacent to the tranquil blue Ionian Sea. This public beach offers the full suite of facilities typical of a European seaside retreat. Visitors may rent paddleboats along the shore, and sunbeds are available for use. The beach is lined with a promenade shaded by lush palm trees, home to ice-cream vendors and temporary bars that serve refreshments during the summer months. Should hunger arise, one can easily cross the road behind the promenade for a delightful lunch at Saranda’s array of seaside cafes and seafood restaurants.
2. Mirror Beach
Located south of Saranda, en route to the village of Ksamil, is this hidden natural bay, often regarded by many visitors as the finest along the entire Albanian Riviera. Despite its reputation, those who vacation in the area frequently prefer the convenience of the urban beach at Saranda; thus, Mirror Beach, which lacks extensive services, remains pleasantly quiet throughout the summer. This serene environment invites you to unwind amid natural beauty, where cliffs safeguard the coastline and the turquoise waters are pacified by nearby limestone formations.
3. Lekuresi Castle
Saranda is embraced by tall hills, upon one of which stands an ancient structure originating from Albania’s early Ottoman period. Lekuresi Castle was once a fortress that encompassed an entire village; however, it now exists in a state of partial ruin. The remnants include portions of the walls and a deteriorating watchtower that overlooks the bay. Many visitors undertake the uphill trek to witness panoramic vistas that extend to the island of Corfu and the Greek frontier.
4. Synagogue
Historically, Saranda boasted a vibrant Jewish community, as evidenced by the remains of this Synagogue dating back to the 200s. It comprised a comprehensive network of buildings, which included a school and community center. Upon exploring the complex, visitors will observe the intricate Jewish mosaics adorning the floor, which revealed the identity of the building upon its discovery in 2003. These mosaics feature the menorah alongside a shofar (an ancient musical horn) and etrogs (the citron fruit traditionally consumed during the Sukkot holiday).
5. Monasteries
Saranda derives its name from the Monastery of Forty Saints, built in the 400s on a hill overlooking the bay. The term “Forty Saints” references the narrative of forty Roman martyrs who were condemned to perish in Siberia for refusing to renounce their Christian faith. Although the monastery is in a dilapidated state due to war damage, much of the original stonework remains. Access to the crypt is possible through arrangements with Saranda’s town hall. Additionally, a journey into the countryside offers the chance to explore the Saint Nicholas Monastery in Mesopotam, which possesses stonework at its base that predates Christianity in Albania.
6. Syri Kalter
Known as “The Blue Eye” in English, Syri Kalter is a natural spring and a captivating phenomenon nestled in Saranda’s hilly hinterland. Visitors are enthralled by the spring’s stunning blue hue, which appears particularly vibrant on clear days as sunlight reflects off the water. This striking color is attributed to oxygen bubbles rising from the depths of the spring, which reaches at least 50 meters below the surface and possibly much further. The surroundings are equally picturesque, featuring oak and sycamore trees encircling the water, along with a wooden viewing platform directly above the “Eye.”
7. Dhermi
A convenient day trip north of Saranda leads to the charming resort town of Dhermi. The impressive Ceraunian Mountains descend dramatically to the water’s edge, and the village perches on a steep incline. This topographical arrangement lends a striking visual appeal. At Drymades Beach, one can gaze upward to see clouds rolling over the mountain peaks, while the rest of the scenery basks in sunshine. Visitors may choose to hike up the hills to explore two historic monasteries or embark on a boat excursion to discover the caves and islands in this rugged coastal area.
8. Ksamil
This village lies within Butrint National Park, nestled between the Ionian Sea and Lake Butrint. Ksamil is merely a short drive south of Saranda, and starting your day early is advisable to fully appreciate all it has to offer. The waters adjacent to Ksamil are among the calmest found on the Riviera, allowing for the rental of a motorboat for a small adventure exploring the nearby islets. One could anchor in a hidden cove and spend a serene afternoon sunbathing and swimming in perfect tranquility.
9. Butrint
Located just 14 kilometers south of Saranda, this UNESCO site is a must-visit attraction. It boasts the largest collection of ancient ruins in Albania, situated in a location that has experienced continuous human occupation since the Stone Age. The ruins trace their history back to as early as 800 BC, when Butrint was settled by the Chaonians, who resided in the coastal regions of present-day western Greece and Albania. Subsequently, it transformed into a Roman colony, then a Byzantine city, and during medieval times, it served as a trading hub for the Venetians before its abandonment. The site retains numerous remarkable ruins, including an early Christian basilica, a Roman theatre, a Roman temple, and a Greek agora featuring columns. Notably, Butrint’s museum is housed within a medieval Venetian tower.
10. Borsh
This coastal village, situated between Saranda and Dhermi, features the longest beach along the Ionian Sea, extending seven kilometers. Despite the breathtaking scenery, mass tourism has not yet fully arrived in the village, maintaining a relaxed and laid-back ambiance. Directly behind the beach lies a small plain dotted with olive groves, and further into the hills, the ruins of ancient mosques and castles await exploration. Among these is Ali Pasha, a Venetian fortress dating back to the 1400s, which illustrates how the Ionian region served as a significant battleground between the Ottoman Empire and various European forces, including the Republic of Venice and Napoleonic armies.
