The mountainous country of Albania, located in the southern region of Eastern Europe, is a dream come true for lovers of the great outdoors. Bring your sense of adventure and have it completely fulfilled during a holiday in Albania.  This gorgeous natural paradise offers amazingly preserved national parks, unique bird watching opportunities and plenty of dramatic canyons and rivers to enjoy some exhilarating activities.

albania postcard

The ideal time to visit Albania is during the spring and autumn months when you can enjoy the perfect balance of a warm, soothing climate and nature blooming into an enticing array of colours. For true outdoor splendour in Albania, don’t miss the Albanian Alps, regarded as the best place in the country for trekking, mountain climbing and skiing. The Tomorri massif also offers an exceptional smaller scale trek for more casual hikers. Both of these areas offer a wide selection of tours and their inviting resorts will quickly make the foreign tourist feel completely welcomed.

To take in a little world-class bird watching, head over to Llogara National Park, located near the gorgeous coastal town of Vlora. Another fascinating location for a spot of twitching is the Butrint area, which is filled with marshes and waters that attract many of Albania’s most beautiful birds.

For some fun-packed swimming and relaxing bathing, make your way towards the beautiful clear sea of the Adriatic and Ionian Coast, particularly the tranquil surroundings of the bay at Vlora.

Albania also boasts plenty to discover in its towns and cities. The pocket-sized capital, Tirana, offers colourful streets and Turkish bazaars to explore as well as many insights into Albanian history at places such as The National Museum of Medieval Art and the National Museum of Skanderbeg.

albania-tirana

While in the ancient cities of Gjirokastra and Berat you will find UNESCO-listed sites, alluring Ottoman and Byzantine architecture, historic castles and many ethnographic curiosities.

Elsewhere, highlights include the National Ethnographic Museum at Kruje, the National Museum of Onufri, the Independence Museum and the National Photo Gallery Marubi.

Albania holidays are incomplete without visiting breathtaking castles such as Petrela Castle, Drisht Castle, Preza Castle, Rozafa Castle, Lezha Castle, Lëkurs Castle, Rodoni Castle, Bashtova Castle, Kanina Castle, Elbasan Castle, and Borsh Castle. It is not everyday that you can witness such an incredible collection of historical sites, ancient architecture and magnificent natural features all in a country of Albania’s size.

Thanks to Tom for writing this article on the best things to see in Albania. Tom booked his Albania holiday with UK based holiday & city break specialist, Regent Holidays.