Small Group Tour of Southern Albania; Vlore, Butrint & Gjirokaster

Right after breakfast, we will pass nearby Llogara National Park and drive along the coastline known as the Albanian Riviera, crossing some of the most beautiful beaches of Albania; Palase, Dhermi and Llamani beaches. We will pass some small villages one by one, clinging to rock faces by the seaside, all tumbledown stone walls and narrow pathways, overhung with vines full of grapes, and trees heavy with figs and walnuts. Our first stop will be the beautiful castle of Ali Pasha at Porto Palermo, situated in the closed bay of Porto Palermo. Our tour continues to the National Park of Butrint. Part of the UNESCO world heritage. Butrint is the most important archaeological site in Albania, and the first Albanian site that became part of the UNESCO list. The ruins combined with the stunning natural surroundings make it worth a visit. After visiting Butrint National park we will move towards Gjirokaster. Overnight in Gjirokaster.

Gjirokaster, also known as “The Stone City”, part of UNESCO World heritage is situated in Southern Albania on the eastern side of mountain “Mali i Gjere”. Gjirokastra resembles a fortified city where every single house is like a small fortress. The origin of the city starts with the castle of Gjirokastra, built in IV century A.D., and is considered as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Every five years Gjirokastra becomes the capital of the Albanian folklore and traditional music, where passionate folklore ensembles gather in the “stone city” and perform their traditional music, dances and show off their costumes. Right before entering the castle of Gjirokastra you would have to pass by the medieval bazar. The atmospheric old town cascading down in graceful hill crammed with beautiful narrowed stone decorated streets, where you will be amazed by the wide variety of handmade crafts from local artisans and producers. We will visit one of the best-preserved houses of Gjirokastra, where everything is totally original and authentic. After visiting “The Stone City”, we will drive back to Tirana. This marks the end of this amazing experience through history and adventure.