With its mediterranian climate, sunny weather, and warm seas bordering it on two sides, the Republic of Albania is the perfect country for a relaxing getaway. Relaxing is not the only option however, the country is located in southeastern Europe and its beautiful beaches are contrasted by a largely mountainous interior which is often inaccessible and highly rugged. The country is also rich in biological diversity and its natural features are often what draw visitors. Today we'll be exploring just a few of the many adventures to be found in this rugged, sun-kissed country.
St. Mary's Church, Maligrad:
St. Mary's is an orthadox cave church found at the center of a lake. Located on the island of Maligrad the church is a cultural monument of Albania. The island is worth exploring in its own right for the interesting cliffs and many caves. The church is built in the largest of these caves and is known for its intriguing frescoes and greek inscriptions dating back to the 14th century.
Butrint:
Butrint is a UNESCO world heritage site on the Straits of Corfu located in the southwest of Albania. The ruins of Butrint are the largest greek era archeological site in Albania. The site boasts an impressive Roman amphitheater, the second largest byzantine basilica in the world, and a Roman temple with an intricate mosaic floor.
Visitors to the ruins should also explore the nearby towns of Sarande and Kasmili. Sarande is located on horseshoe bay and with 300 sunny days a year and sea waters perfect for swimming in it is a favorite with honeymooners. Don't forget to visit the castle above Saranda which houses a restaurant with panoramic views of the bay below. Nearby Kasmili provides small town charm and a beautiful beach with coastal islands close enough to swim to.
Berat:
Recently designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 2008, Berat is known as the "town of a thousand windows." The town is historically important as a well preserved Ottoman town. Mingle with locals while weaving through the tight pathways of the old town and be sure to walk up the steep cobbled path to the Kala, a 13th century citadel with spectacular views of the surrounding area. The town also hosts beautiful examples of byzantine era churches.
For nearby adventure opportunities hike to Bogova waterfall or head to nearby Tomorri Mountain to see a Bektashi Temple and the dervish mystics who worship there.
Sea Kayaking:
Albania hosts a beautiful, sunny, and warm mediterranean climate which makes exploring its coastlines idea. Rent a kayak for the best opportunity to explore the secluded beaches and sea caves which dot the coastline. There are many places to explore as Albania abuts both the Ionina Sea and the Adriatic Sea. Guided day trips and longer tours are available in many beach towns.
City of Kruje:
Located in north-central Albania, the small and charming mountainside town of Kruje is the perfect size for exploring on foot. See the old Bazaar where you can find souvenirs, antiques, and local, traditional knittings and carpets. While exploring the town, don't forget to see Kruja Castle and linger in the local museums.
Peaks of the Balkans Trail:
The Peaks of the Balkans trail leads through some of the wildest and most remote regions of the western Balkans. The trail follows old shepherd paths as it straddles the border between Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro. The trail is a circuit path which can be started in any of the three host countries. To complete the full circuit and return to your starting point you'll have to hike 120 miles which takes the average hiker between ten and thirteen days. The time it takes to hike the full trail is worth it for close up views of a high alpine environment including waterfalls, green valleys, wild rivers, and remote mountain villages.
Dajti Mountain National Park:
Dajti Mountain National Park is easy to get to given its proximity to the national capital of Tirana in central Albania. The top of Dajti mountain can be quickly reached via cable car and draws local visitors on a regular basis. Although close to the nation's capital the national park retains its wild nature and visitors here have the potential to run into wild boar, Eurasian wolves, red foxes, European hares, brown bears, and wildcats. For the intrepid explorer a trip to Pellumba cave is recommended and be sure to take the time to visit Brari mountain which also sits within the park's protected area. Brari is best known for its Ottoman era bridge but is also home to a panoramic canyon and an interesting cave worth visiting.
Valbona Valley:
Valbona Valley is the jewel of the Albanian Alps. Also known as the "accursed mountains" this area is a remote and wild region but is the perfect locale for hiking. Valbona is one of the most beautiful valleys in Albania and is known for the turquoise waters of its river. Nearby Theth valley is also worth exploring, speak to locals to discover the best routes.
Rafting Osumi Canyon:
Osumi is a river canyon in southern Albania near the town of Corovode. This beautiful canyon is best seen in the spring when melting snow increases the river levels allowing for rafting exploration along the entire length of the canyon. Spring is also the best time for viewing the canyons many waterfalls. Even when water levels are too low for rafting exploration, hiking the canyon remains an intriguing experience as the canyon is home to many caves and underground passages, most of which remain largely unexplored.
Explore the Beaches:
The Albanian coast is home to turquoise waters, historic churches and fortresses, and hill villages with flower lined footpaths. Adventurers should be sure to visit Ilogara national park for hiking and paragliding. Camping is popular in the region and sites are frequently found on the beaches or among the area's olive trees. For those looking for more upscale accomodations, eco-friendly cabins are available at Porto Palermo Beach .
Karaburun-Sazen National Marine Park is the perfect place for diving enthusiasts with its rich sea life and sunken ships. For those interested in Albania's nightlife, Dhermi beach is the place to be with its trendy beachside clubs.
Palasa beach is a the perfect spot for beach walking with sands stretching for a kilometer and visitors can say they are standing in the footsteps of Julius Caesar who is reported to have stopped there. Be sure to stop and observe the local orchards. Agriculture is a large industry in the region and can best be seen at the beachside town of Borsh which hosts orange, lemon, and olive plantations.
No comments:
Post a Comment