Vlore County

Vlore County is home to the most famous stretch of Albania's coastline. The journey south from the city of Vlore over the Llogara Pass is one of Europe's most scenic drives, revealing the stunning beaches of the Albanian Riviera. The county includes popular beach towns like Dhermi and Himare, as well as the idyllic coves of Ksamil further south (though Ksamil is right on the border of the next county).

The region is not just about beaches; it is also home to the Llogara National Park, a mountainous forest that plunges down to the sea, and the Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park, the country's only marine park. With its combination of rugged mountains and idyllic coastline, Vlore County is the perfect destination for a summer road trip and beach holiday.

Reasons to Visit

• Albanian Riviera Beaches: Relax on some of Europe's most beautiful and undeveloped beaches.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: Experience the incredible views while driving the winding road over the Llogara Pass.
• Affordable Seaside Holiday: Enjoy a Mediterranean beach vacation at a fraction of the cost of its more famous neighbors.
• Pristine Nature: Explore the protected nature of Llogara National Park and the Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park.

Things to Avoid

• Driving at Night: The coastal roads are mountainous, winding, and poorly lit. Driving should only be done during daylight hours.
• Peak Season Crowds: The main beaches can get very crowded in late July and August. Visit in June or September for a more relaxed experience.
• Relying on Public Transport: To properly explore the hidden coves and beaches, a rental car is essential.
• Expecting Sandy Beaches Everywhere: Many of the most beautiful beaches in Vlore County are pebbly, not sandy. Bring water shoes.

Local Transportation Tips

A rental car is the best way to explore Vlore County and the Riviera. Buses and furgons (shared vans) connect the main towns along the coast, but they are infrequent and do not stop at the more secluded beaches. In summer, water taxis can be hired in towns like Himare to explore the coastline.

Travel Etiquette

• Respect the Environment: Help keep the beaches pristine by taking all of your rubbish with you.
• Driving Courtesy: Be a patient and courteous driver on the narrow and winding coastal roads.
• Bargaining: For services like boat trips, some friendly bargaining may be possible in the off-season.
• Modest Dress Away from the Beach: While beachwear is fine at the beach, it is respectful to cover up when walking through the towns.

Did You Know?

It was in the city of Vlore, the capital of Vlore County, that Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912. The city's Independence Monument commemorates this historic event.

Cool Vlore County Stats

• Two Seas: The waters off the Karaburun Peninsula in Vlore County are where the Adriatic Sea to the north and the Ionian Sea to the south are considered to meet.
• Marine Park: The Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park is the only national marine park in Albania.
• High Pass: The Llogara Pass, which marks the entrance to the Riviera, reaches an altitude of over 1,027 meters (3,369 feet).

Recommended Age Group

Vlore County is most suitable for adventurous Adults and Teens looking for a stunning and affordable beach destination.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended due to intense summer heat and lack of facilities.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended for families who enjoy beach holidays, though the long drives can be tough.
• Teens (13-19 years): Highly Recommended. The beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere make it a fantastic destination.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. It offers an unbeatable combination of stunning scenery, great value, and a sense of adventure.
• Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended due to challenging driving and a lack of accessible infrastructure.

Accessibility Level: Low

• This is a developing coastal region with very limited accessibility.
• Most beaches have no accessible paths, requiring walks on sand or uneven terrain.
• Accessible hotel rooms are extremely rare.
• The winding coastal road and lack of accessible public transport make moving between towns a major challenge.