Introducing Albania

Written by Graham

We’ve spent the past year preparing a range of holidays in Europe and nearby to some fabulous destinations that perhaps many people are less familiar with. We've worked hard to put the Llama Travel touch on these, and we know that we can add greatly to your experience, with excellent guides and carefully prepared itineraries.

Lesser known than its Balkan neighbours, Albania is gifted with beautiful mountain scenery, pristine coastline and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We will be launching our Albania holidays in the next few weeks, but we want to give you a sneak peak now.

Here’s what Graham, from the Llama Travel sales team, saw during his time in Albania - all the photos in this blog are his own.

My tour of Albania began in the fascinating capital city of Tirana before venturing south to the historic Ottoman settlements of Berat and Gjirokaster impressively constructed in the foothills of the mountainous terrain with dominant fortresses overlooking each. From here the journey continued to the Albanian Riviera with its turquoise waters and tranquil bays dotted along the Ionian and Adriatic coastline. The ancient archaeological cities of Butrint and Apollonia displayed the rich culture and history of the country with extremely well-preserved theatre’s and mosaics chronicling the intricate craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks, Romans and Byzantines from the centuries ago. Completing my loop of Albania my final stop was in the hilltop town of Kruja famous for its old bazaar and amazing views over the valley below.

Here are some pictures I took along my journey.

Berat

Berat Managelami Kalaja

Mangalemi quarter, Berat old town, is one of Albania’s best preserved Ottoman settlements.

Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster Dino Mountains and Clock Tower from Fortress

Gjirokaster fortress with the dramatic Drino Mountains as the backdrop.

Sarandë

Sarande

The coastal city of Sarandë is a starting point for exploring the beaches of the Albanian riviera.

Ksamil Beach

Ksamil

Ksamil Beach looking out to the Ionian Sea. The Albanian Riviera offers an abundance of beaches similar to this.

Butrint

Butrint Theatre

The well-preserved ancient Greek theatre of Butrint.

Apollonia

Apollonia I

Iconic façade of Apollonia.

Kruja

Kruja Bazaar

Kruja is a charming medieval village known for its old market.

Tirana

Tirana BunkArt 2

Inside the underground museum of Bunk’Art 1 - an anti-nuclear bunker built into a hill by the communist government.

We’ll let you know when our Albania holiday is on sale, but if you are potentially interested, send us an email or call us by the end of October to let us know and we’ll give you an extra £50 per person off, in addition to any other launch offers we have. There’s no commitment on your part, but this will help us gauge interest.

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