Albania’s nature offers an incredible variety of landscapes in a small country.
What makes Albania’s nature special?
Albania is like a little treasure chest of landscapes. You can find:
- Beautiful beaches with turquoise waters.
- Tall mountains for hiking and skiing.
- Peaceful lakes and rushing rivers.
- Rolling hills covered in olive trees and vineyards.
All of this fits into a country smaller than the state of Massachusetts!
Fun fact: Over 30% of Albania’s land is protected as national parks or nature reserves.
The Best Natural Places to Visit in Albania
- The Albanian Riviera (South Coast):
- This is where you’ll find some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, like Ksamil, Dhermi, and Himara.
- The Ionian Sea is clear and perfect for swimming.
- The Albanian Alps (North Albania):
- These mountains are also called the Accursed Mountains, but they’re far from cursed! They’re stunning and great for hiking.
- Popular spots: Valbona Valley National Park and Theth National Park.
- Lake Ohrid:
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site shared with North Macedonia.
- The lake is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest, and it’s perfect for relaxing or fishing.
- Butrint National Park:
- This park combines history and nature. You can see ancient ruins surrounded by lush forests and wetlands.
- Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër):
- A magical spring with water so clear and blue it looks like a jewel.
- The water comes from underground and stays icy cold, even in summer.
- Llogara Pass:
- A mountain road with breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs below.
- Great for scenic drives or paragliding.
What can you do in Albania’s nature?
- Hiking: Explore mountain trails in the Alps or coastal walks by the sea.
- Swimming and sunbathing: The beaches are perfect for a summer escape.
- Camping: Set up a tent by a lake or in the mountains for a peaceful night under the stars.
- Birdwatching: Albania is home to many birds, especially in wetlands like the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park.
- Boat rides: Enjoy relaxing trips on lakes like Ohrid or in the coastal lagoons.
Is Albania’s nature easy to explore?
Yes! Albania is small, so you can visit the mountains, beaches, and lakes all in one trip. Roads are improving, and guided tours are available for many places.
Quick facts about Albania’s nature:
- Highest peak: Mount Korab (2,751 m or 9,026 ft).
- Longest river: Drin River (285 km or 177 miles).
- Protected areas: 15 national parks and many nature reserves.
Albania’s nature will take your breath away. From snowy peaks to sunny beaches, it’s a place that feels like a dream come true for every kind of traveler.
