Himarë

It is the combination of stunning beaches with crystal-clear water, cultural attractions and convenient location that makes Himarë so appealing to visitors travelling on the Albanian Riviera. While it has seen increased tourism, it still maintains a relatively unspoiled and authentic atmosphere. Those seeking a more tranquil and less crowded experience often find Himarë to be a perfect destination. There are also numerous options for day trips from Himarë.

The Greek minority in Himarë has influenced the local culture, language, and traditions. Visitors may notice a unique blend of Albanian and Greek elements, particularly in the architecture and daily life of the town. Signs in the Greek alphabet can be found on every corner.

As with other towns on the Albanian Riviera, the Old Himarë, or Himara e Vjetër in Albanian, is located not by the sea, but high on a hill about two kilometres north of today’s centre. It consists of a tangle of streets with old dilapidated houses, cobbled alleyways and a few churches. Its dominant feature is the Castle (Kështjella e Himarës), which dates back to antiquity. Today, only ruins remain and the place makes a rather bleak impression. However, it is worth a visit for the panoramic views towards the sea alone.

The centre of the new Himarë, called Spile by the locals, is the coastal promenade stretching along the beach (Plazhi i Spilës or Plazhi i Himarës). Here you will find the most hotels, restaurants, bars and discos.

The kilometre-long Livadh Beach (Plazhi i Livadhit) is located two kilometres northwest of Himarë and is particularly popular with families and children. There are some small hotels and campsites nearby.

A wide Potam Beach (Plazhi i Potamit) with sunbeds and umbrellas stretches southeast of Himarë. Equally stunning is Llaman Beach (Plazhi i Llamanit), which is located near the road to Sarandë. There are at least three restaurants and bars there, with DJs playing in the evenings. In the high season, it’s quite crowded, and the beach is especially popular with young people.

If you are looking for a slightly more secluded beach with a bit of privacy, walk further south from Potam, over the hill to Filikuri Beach (Plazhi i Filikurit). It’s barely a few dozen metres long, almost surrounded by cliffs. It takes about 15 minutes to get there from the southern end of the Potam and the path is quite tricky at the end and exactly meant for children: you have to hold on to a suspended rope. But it’s worth it, Filikuri i one of the most beautiful Albania’s beaches. The sea at Filikuri is the coldest around Himarë due to the underwater springs.

Still, the most picturesque beach near Himarë is the Aquarium. A tiny sandy beach squeezed between the rocks that can easily be reached on foot from Jalë or Livadh (20 min.).

Boat tours are organized, among many others, by the agency Himara Seas The Day.

Himarë’s location makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions along the Albanian Riviera and in the hinterland. Visit the nearby towns and villages, such as Dhërmi, Qeparo and Borsh. To explore the hinterland, visit the breathtaking canyons in the Kurvelesh region.

The rugged coast and surrounding mountains offer opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. Take a 20-kilometres-long hike along the coast to Dhërmi via beaches in Jalë and Gjipe.

The village of Pilur, which is located on the hill above Himarë at the end of an asphalt road, is a good starting point for a hike in the Ceraunian Mountains or to Shushica Valley (see a hiking miniguide).

All buses running between Vlorë and Sarandë along the coast make a stop in Himarë. Ticket can be bought on-line via Gjirafa bus search engine.