Sarande
Scenery: A Mediterranean Jewel
Nestled between steep, green-cloaked hills and the dazzling Ionian Sea, Sarandë is a theatrical masterpiece of natural beauty. The city cascades down to a sheltered bay, offering panoramic sea views that feel almost cinematic—imagine waking to cerulean waters shimmering under the Mediterranean sun and ending your day with golden sunsets blazing over Corfu, just a short ferry ride away.
The coastline is a dramatic blend of long, sandy beaches and rugged, rocky stretches, with Borsh and Dhërmi among the most celebrated. The surrounding landscape is rich in biodiversity, featuring olive groves, citrus orchards, and dense Mediterranean vegetation. Wildflowers scent the air in spring, while summer brings a riot of greenery and the hum of cicadas. Autumn paints the hills in warm hues, and crisp winter air occasionally dusts the higher peaks with snow, though the coast remains mild year-round.
Sarandë boasts the highest number of sunny days in Europe—over 270 annually—making it a sanctuary for sun-seekers. The Mediterranean climate ensures hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with sea breezes tempering the heat. The region’s botanical wealth is complemented by diverse fauna: wild boar, hares, jackals, and even dolphins frequent these waters. Nearby reserves like Butrint National Park and lush forests such as Stillo and Muzina offer tranquil escapes into nature.
Culture: Where History and Hospitality Meet
Sarandë’s culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from ancient Illyrian roots, Byzantine heritage, and centuries of Greek, Ottoman, and Italian influence. The city’s name itself—derived from the Byzantine “Agioi Saranda” (Forty Saints)—speaks to its spiritual past. Once a humble Ottoman harbor, Sarandë’s strategic position made it a coveted prize, passing through Greek, Italian, and British hands before returning to Albania after World War II.
Today, the town is home to a significant Greek minority and retains a palpable Hellenic flavor—especially in cuisine, music, and local dialects. Hospitality is heartfelt here; visitors are welcomed with strong coffee, sweet baklava, and spirited conversation. Fishing remains a way of life, and the daily catch often lands straight on your plate.
The Albanian Riviera comes alive each summer with festivals celebrating music, dance, and wine. Local traditions are kept alive through folk performances and religious celebrations, especially during Orthodox Easter. The fusion of past and present is evident everywhere: in the ruins dotting the hills, the bustling seaside promenade, and the lively cafés where generations gather to share stories.
Famous Landmarks: Echoes of Antiquity
- Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Butrint is an archaeological wonder. Founded by Greek colonists, later expanded by Romans, and fortified by Byzantines, this ancient city reveals layers of history through its amphitheater, basilica, and Venetian castle. Set amidst lagoons and lush greenery, Butrint offers a hauntingly beautiful journey through time.
- Lëkurësi Castle
Perched on a hill overlooking Sarandë, this 16th-century Ottoman fortress is a romantic relic with sweeping views of the bay. Its stone walls and towers evoke tales of bygone battles, while its terrace is now a favorite spot for sunset cocktails and panoramic photography.
- Ancient Synagogue of Sarandë
One of the earliest known synagogues in the Balkans, this 5th-century site underscores the region’s religious diversity. Its mosaic floors, adorned with Jewish symbols, are a testament to the multicultural fabric that has defined Sarandë for millennia.
Activities: A Feast for the Senses
Sarandë invites you to savor the slow rhythm of Mediterranean life. Stroll the palm-lined waterfront at sunset, when the air is alive with laughter and the aroma of grilled seafood. Dive into crystalline waters for snorkeling among corals and caves, or set sail to hidden coves along the Albanian Riviera.
Food is an event here: sample fresh octopus, succulent olives, and local cheeses at a family-run taverna. Join a cooking class to master the art of byrek or share a carafe of raki with new friends. For culture lovers, the city’s museums and galleries showcase ancient artifacts and modern Albanian art.
Nature lovers can hike to waterfalls in Bistricë, explore the Blue Eye Spring, or embark on a jeep safari through the Accursed Mountains. History buffs will lose themselves in the ruins of Onchesmos and Phoenice, while adventurers can kayak, windsurf, or even spot Caretta caretta turtles off Butrint’s shores.
Sarandë is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Here, the past lingers in every stone, the sea sparkles with possibility, and the warmth of its people lingers long after you depart. For the discerning traveler seeking beauty, authenticity, and a touch of the extraordinary, Sarandë is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.