Travel in Albania – Hotels, Albania Vacations, Lodging, Trips, Attractions and Travel Guide



Albania: Visiting the Undiscovered European Country

Vacation and Travel to Albania
Southern Albania, known for the rock-strewn landscape, and crystal waters of the Ionian Sea. Looks similar to Greek islands such as Corfu in terms of scenery. The house seen in the right-hand corner is called “Leaders’ Rest House” since many of the communist government leaders would stay there on vacations.

Albania is a country in Europe located on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Over one third of the country of Albania is covered in forest. This gives the mountainous regions unique flora. This country has beaches, snow topped mountains, and forests making the climate diverse. Albania has been populated since prehistoric times and is rich in culture and history.

Lura National Park is situated in the Northeastern part of Albania. There are twelve glacial lakes located in the national park. The most popular are Great Lake, Lake of Flowers, Black Lake, and Cows' Lake and they are all surrounded by picturesque forests. Visitors to the park will find breathtaking views of flower laden valleys and green pine carpeted mountain sides. During the winter months, the snow is perfect for skiing and snowboarding down the slopes of the mountains. The summer time is great for horseback riding, hiking, and picnics in the meadows. The Lura National Park during any season offers activities for all to enjoy.

Rozafa Castle in Shkodra is a fortress constructed about 350 B.C. The castle is steeped in legend and local folk lore. The massive gate at the main entrance opens up to three complex courtyards. The first courtyard was designed for defense against invading armies. The second one was built for housing the castles army. The third and highest courtyard on the grounds was were the leaders of the garrison defended the castle and gives the best view of the city. The castle was built with many secret passage carved into the surrounding rocks. Some of the passage ways lead to exits in the nearby hills and can still be accessed today. Guests to the castle are advised to bring a flashlight when exploring the property because there is no electricity running to the castle. This site just begs visitors to explore it.

In the city of Sarande the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint rest peacefully on a hill overlooking the Vivari Channel. Butrint has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The city in the past has been inhabited by a Roman colony and a bishopric. The first evidence of Butrint becoming colonized dates back to the 10th and 8th centuries B.C. The town was strategically situated due to its access to the Straits of Corfu. Because of the importance of the city in ancient times, the site has included a theater, Roman bath, and even aqueducts. Several cultures have built on the site over the centuries and have expanded it over time. The rich history of this site is a joy to wander through.

Saranda is a small town nestled on the edge of the Ionian Sea. This town touts one of the best beaches in all of Albania. The blue waters and Mediterranean sunshine give Saranda a beautiful back drop. The beaches here are loaded with soft sands and swaying trees. The beaches are not over crowded like others throughout the Mediterranean. This gives visitors an opportunity to truly relax on vast uninhibited stretches of sand. For beach goers, the beaches in Albania cannot be beat.

The Butrinti Hotel is set on the beach in Saranda. This five star hotel has an amazing pool and luxury rooms. The piano bar in the Butrinti offers live entertainment in the evenings and the restaurant serves world class cuisine. Set on the blue waters of the Mediterranean the Butrinti Hotel is a great getaway. Located in the heart of Shkoda is the Grand Europa Hotel. The hotel is near Lake Shkoda and is just minutes from museums, cathedrals, and palaces. Grand Europa is luxurious and offers high class service. The Grand Europa Hotel is great for a home base when visiting the mountain region of Albania.

Albania is still undiscovered by tourists. This country is a travelers dream. From snowy mountains to sunny beaches, this country has it all. One trip to Albania and travelers will agree that this is truly an undiscovered European nation.

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