|
|
Saranda is situated on the south coast of Albania,
just across the sea from Corfu.
There are plenty of olive groves and citrus
trees in Saranda and the 'Riviera of Flowers' from Vlora to Saranda
has some of the most beautiful fauna in the country.
At the foot of the mountains not far from Saranda
is the source of the Bistrice river. At the head of the river there
is a freshwater spring, the Syri Kaltër (Blue Eye) where the
fresh blue water bubbles from a 50m deep pool.
Saranda has some of the most deserted beaches
of the Mediterranean.
There are several good bars and restaurants
in Saranda and Butrint offering fresh, healthy Mediterranean food.
Saranda is approximately five hours from Tirana
by car.
Places to visit
The Butrint National Park
A 20 minute drive from Saranda lies the
ancient historical town of Butrint, home to the Butrint National
Park, one of the least known and least spoilt great classical
sites of the Mediterranean.
The Butrint National Park has been named a World Heritage
Site by UNESCO to recognise its importance as an international
cultural and natural resource. The Park contains one of the
Balkans' largest and most romantic excavated ancient cities.
The landscape around Lake Butrint has striking scenic qualities
with views of rugged hills, mountains, and a largely unspoilt
ancient coastal lagoon. The diversity of flora and fauna found
at Butrint are important examples of the region, and many
of the habitats are well preserved.
An English guide book "Butrint-a guide to the city and
its monuments" is available from the Butrint Foundation
(www.butrintfound.dial.pipex.com)
or from www.amazon.co.uk
|
|
Gjirokastra – Town & Castle
Gjirokastra is home to the biggest castle in Albania. Situated above
the city, there are spectacular views from the castle bar/ restaurant
terrace. The former prison block became a museum in 1971.
| 
|
Often recognised as one of the most
attractive towns in Albania, Gjirokastra is known for its
beautiful, unique 19th century houses and narrow, cobbled
streets. In the early 1960's, the city was given status as
a "museum city" to legally protect its architectural
heritage. Gjirokastra is situated on the slope of Mali Gjere
(wide mountain), overlooking the river Drino. |
Castle of Lëkursit
The 19th Century Castle of Lëkursit should be visited if only
to admire the spectacular views over the Ksamili peninsular and
the Butrint lagoon, across to Corfu and north to the Bay of Kakome
which can be seen clearly from the bar/ restaurant terrace.
Bay of Kakome
It is worth hiring a boatman to take you to the Bay of Kakome.
Small rivers run from mountains into sandy beaches. With a
backdrop of hills harvesting orange trees and olive groves,
this is a wonderful place to relax. |
|
 |
The Blue Eye
"Syri Kaltër" situated 8km
north of Saranda, the "Blue Eye" is formed by underground
springs naturally bubbling up in a circular shape; deep blue
at its centre and a turquoise blue around the edge. Shaded
by ancient oak trees, this beauty spot is well worth a visit. |
Places to Stay
Hotel Butrinti
| 
|
A five minute drive from the harbour
lies the luxurious 5* Hotel Butrinti. The hotel boasts a bar,
restaurant, pub, piano bar, pizzeria, fitness centre, sauna,
swimming pool (including separate children’s pool and
poolside bar), shop, enclosed outdoor play area (swings, roundabout,
etc.), sports court (football, tennis &basketball) and
beach volley facilities, as well as an impressive conference
room overlooking the sea. |
  |
|
| All rooms are air conditioned and have
TVC Sat, telephone, security boxes and refrigerator as standard.
Apartment suites are also available.
Prices from £50 per person per night
on a bed and breakfast basis.
Half board option available from £12 per person per
day.
|
|
|
