5 Days Private Family Summer Beach Holidays mixed with Sightseeing's

Morning:

Beach Walk in Vlora: Begin your day with a refreshing morning walk along the beach in Vlora, where you can enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere and the calming sound of the waves.

Depart for National Park of Llogara: After your peaceful start to the day, set off on your journey to the National Park of Llogara, located just 1 hour from Vlora. As you drive along the Adriatic seaside, you'll be treated to stunning views of the coast and the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea.

Midday:

Arrive in Llogara: Once you reach the Llogara National Park, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. Take some time to have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.

Explore the National Park: After lunch, you’ll have the option to take a walk along one of the park’s scenic trails. The park is known for its unique flora and fauna, as well as the stunning panoramic views it offers of both the mountains and the sea.

Historical Insights: As you drive and explore, your guide will provide fascinating explanations about the history and significance of the region, giving you a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural and natural heritage.

Afternoon:

Drive to Himara: After your time in Llogara, continue your journey along the coastal road to Himara, a charming seaside town along the Ionian Sea.

Arrival in Himara and Check-In: Upon arrival in Himara, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Evening:

Beach Time in Himara: Spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the beach or strolling along the scenic coastline of Himara. The area is known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Morning:

Depart for Saranda: After breakfast, meet your driver and guide at the hotel entrance, and set off towards Saranda. Enjoy the scenic drive with panoramic views of the mountains and the beautiful Ionian Sea.

Relax at Drimadhes Beach: Your first stop will be Drimadhes Beach, where you can unwind by the Ionian Sea. Take in the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the surrounding landscape as you enjoy a peaceful moment by the beach.

Midday:

Visit Porto Palermo and Ali Pasha Castle: Continue your journey to the picturesque Gulf of Porto Palermo, home to a small yet striking castle built by Ali Pasha Tepelena in 1807-1808. This castle sits on a charming island and offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding areas. Learn about its fascinating history as you explore the fortress and its surroundings.

Explore Traditional Villages: As you drive through Himara, Qeparo, and Borsh, you will pass through traditional villages known for their citrus fruit cultivation and picturesque olive groves. The scenic landscapes, combined with the charm of these villages, provide an authentic glimpse into local life.

Afternoon:

Arrival in Saranda: Continue your journey to Saranda, a beautiful coastal city along the Ionian Sea, known for its Mediterranean atmosphere and vibrant culture.

Optional Visit to Butrinti National Park: For those interested in history, an optional visit to the Butrint National Park is highly recommended.

Butrint (Buthrotum) is an ancient city that was originally a Greek colony and later a Roman city and bishopric. The site has been inhabited since prehistoric times and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history. The city’s decline began at the end of Antiquity, and much of it was abandoned after a major earthquake flooded the area.

Today, Butrint is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features well-preserved ruins, including a Greek theater, Roman baths, and early Christian churches.

Evening:

Dinner and Overnight in Saranda: After a full day of exploration, enjoy a relaxing dinner in Saranda, where you can savor local Albanian dishes and fresh seafood. Your guide will recommend the best places for an authentic experience.

Spend the night in Saranda, soaking in the coastal beauty and tranquility.

Morning:

Depart for Gjirokastra: After breakfast, leave Saranda and start your journey toward the ancient town of Gjirokastra. On the way, make a one-hour stop at one of Albania’s most beautiful natural attractions, the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër).

The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the village of Muzinë, within the Finiq municipality. The clear, vivid blue water of the spring is mesmerizing and can be seen from a depth of more than 50 meters. The phenomenon is the source of the Bistricë River, which flows for 25 km before reaching the Ionian Sea south of Saranda. Take in the natural beauty and tranquility of this incredible spot before continuing your journey.

Midday:

Arrive in Gjirokastra: After your visit to the Blue Eye, continue your drive to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its preserved Ottoman-era architecture and rich history.

Explore the Historic Bazaar: Upon arrival, explore the Neck of the Bazaar, a historic part of the Old Town, which was once home to artisanal workshops but now mainly houses souvenir shops. Take a leisurely walk through the bazaar, and you’ll see some stone carvers still at work at the top end of the street.

Gjirokastra Castle: Visit the Gjirokastra Castle, one of the most important landmarks in the region, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Skendulaj Fortress and Weapons Museum: Explore the Skendulaj Fortress and the Weapons Museum housed inside the castle, where you can learn about the military history of the area.

Gjirokastra House & Political Prison: Visit the Gjirokastra House, part of which was transformed into a political prison during the communist era for dissidents. The house offers a powerful glimpse into Albania’s history under the regime.

Ethnographic Museum: Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in the home where Enver Hoxha, the Albanian dictator, was born. Also explore a 300-year-old house next door, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of Gjirokastra’s master builders.

Afternoon:

Lunch and Free Time: After your historical tour, enjoy some free time to explore the Gjirokastra Bazaar at your leisure, shop for souvenirs, or relax before lunch in one of the local restaurants.

Depart for Berat: After lunch, depart Gjirokastra and travel towards Berat, a journey of about 4 hours. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Albanian countryside.

Evening:

Arrival in Berat: Upon arrival in Berat, you’ll have some free time to explore the old town. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning hilltop castle. You can enjoy a walk through its charming streets, or relax with a drink and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Morning:

Depart for Berat: After breakfast, depart from your hotel and head to the heart of Berat, often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows." Your visit will begin with a tour of the Berat Castle, a stunning fortress dating back to the 6th century B.C.

Castle Tour: Within the castle walls, you’ll explore churches with valuable frescoes and icons, as well as a calligraphy school. The castle’s three main neighborhoods—Mangalemi, Gorica, and Kala—each offer a unique glimpse into the city’s history. Residents still live within the castle walls, making it a living piece of history.

The castle dates back to the 3rd century B.C., when it was transformed into a fortified city called Antipatrea. As you walk through the castle, you’ll experience the fusion of Ottoman and Christian history, with churches and other structures that highlight the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Free Time in Old Town: After touring the castle, you’ll have some free time to explore Berat’s old town, with its cobblestone streets, traditional Ottoman-era houses, and picturesque views. You can enjoy a stroll, take photographs, or visit a local café to relax before continuing on your journey.

Midday:

Depart for Karavasta National Park: After your visit to Berat, you will depart for the Karavasta National Park, located about 2 hours away.

Afternoon:

Karavasta National Park: This natural park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With investments made in recent years, the park now includes a pedestrian street and a 36-meter high wooden tower (13 floors) that provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the park and its stunning surroundings.

The park is home to about 230 species of birds, including the famous curly pelican, a species considered endangered. The Karavasta Lagoon is home to approximately 5% of the world's curly pelican population and is protected under the 1994 Ramsar Convention. Although the species has been threatened by illegal hunting, the park still plays a critical role in its preservation.

Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the lagoons, such as the Karavasta, Godulla, and Pishës e Spiaxho lagoons, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Lunch in the Park: After your tour of the park, enjoy a relaxing lunch in a local restaurant, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Late Afternoon:

Return to Tirana: After your visit to Karavasta National Park, depart for Tirana. The journey will take approximately 2 hours, and you can enjoy the scenic countryside on the way back.

Evening:

End of the Tour: Upon arrival in Tirana, your tour concludes, leaving you with wonderful memories of Albania’s rich history and natural beauty.