Himara & Dhermi

Himara — The Greek Village

Himara (Albanian Himarë) is perhaps the most authentic place on the Riviera. The small coastal town with its Greek-Albanian population has retained its village character: narrow alleys, old stone houses, a Byzantine castle on the hill, and grandmothers sitting on the street chatting in Greek. The old town (Kastro) atop the rock offers a breathtaking view over the bay and the coast.

The beaches around Himara are excellent: The main beach Spille is long and family-friendly, the Livadhi Bay south of the town is one of the most beautiful on the Riviera (fine pebbles, turquoise water, beach bars), and the remote Gjipe Bay (accessible only on foot or by boat) is a dream for adventurers. Himara is perfect for 2–3 days: relax on the beach, explore the old town, and dine on the promenade in the evening.

Dhermi — Hidden Coves

Dhermi is the village located at the steepest part of the Riviera. It sits on an elevation (200 m above the sea) — the beach is below. The access road leads through a spectacular serpentine road, and it is precisely this relative inaccessibility that has preserved Dhermi's wild charm.

The Dhermi Beach is one of the longest and most beautiful on the Riviera: white pebbles, perfectly clear water, some beach bars, and rugged mountains in the background. Even more beautiful is the Drymades Beach north of Dhermi — an elongated bay with beach bars, a hippie vibe, and sunsets you will never forget. Here, a backpacker atmosphere mixes with increasingly chic beach clubs.

Gjipe Beach — Albania's Most Secret Beach

Between Himara and Dhermi lies the Gjipe Bay (Gjiri i Gjipesë) — a small beach at the end of a deep canyon, framed by high cliffs. Accessible only on foot (30–45 min descent via a steep path) or by boat. No electricity, no infrastructure, just turquoise water and rock walls. In summer, there is a small improvised café. For many travelers, the most beautiful beach in Albania.