Valbonë Valley National ParkGjipe CanyonGjiri i Dafinës on the Albanian RivieraThe City of SarandëVillage of DhermiCrystal blue waters of Ksamil
Tourism in Albania is characterized by archaeological heritage from Illyrian, Greek, Roman and Ottoman times, unspoiled beaches, mountainous topography, delicious traditional Albanian cuisine, Cold War era artifacts, unique traditions and hospitality, low prices, and the wild and peculiar atmosphere of the countryside. Lonely Planet ranked Albania as the no. 1 destination to be visited in 2011.[1]The New York Times ranked Albania fourth among 52 destinations to be visited in 2014.[2] Although still underdeveloped, Albania is set to prime its debut on the world scene as it celebrates a century of independence.[3] A Huffington Post article outlined 10 reasons for visiting Albania in 2013.[4] Recently, Albania has been officially dubbed as "Go Your Own Way". Previously, it was dubbed as "A New Mediterranean Love" and "Europe's Last Secret".[5]
The bulk of international tourists going to Albania are mostly ethnic Albanians from Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Greece, Italy, and from the larger Albanian diaspora.[6] Foreign tourists mostly come from Central and Eastern Europe, particularly from Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Tourists also come from Western European countries such as Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, France, UK, Scandinavia, and others including the United States, Turkey and countries in Asia.[7] Tourism in Albania is a growing sector with more tourists visiting the country every year. Greek tourists in the countries have increased since the economic crisis namely for seasonal work in the Albanian coast, during the summer months.
Contrary to general perception, Albania is a very safe country[8] with warm and helping people as reflected in the traditional Albanian expression Buke, Kripe e Zemer (Bread, Salt and Heart). To better enjoy ones's stay and for useful information, first time travelers to Albania are strongly encouraged to consult online/print publications, travel forums and blogs on specific tips and itinerary, or can simply book a tour with a local tour operator. Some travelers include Albania as part of the wider Balkan tour package. Visitors with campervans and backpackers prefer resting at hostels or guesthouses, camping in the countryside, and along the coast. Organized groups visit the numerous archaeological sites, historic towns, or rest at seaside resorts of Durres and Shengjin. A growing trend has become canyon rafting, bird-watching, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, and off-road touring in the countryside. Other travelers enjoy exploring the trendy area of Blloku, Tirana's entertainment district which transfers along the Albanian Riviera during the peak summer months. The adventurous Albanian railway system has been described by many travel guides as a tourist attraction and a de facto panoramic journey. Car rental agencies, tour operators, and tourist information centers have opened branches in the capital and other towns. Dental tourism has become popular as local dentists offer services with much lower prices. Local delicious cuisine can be tasted at traditional Albanian restaurants located in emerging agrotourism areas, near tourist attractions, and in scenic spots throughout the country.
However, tourism is hampered by local management issues such as poor road and public utilities infrastructure, unregulated waste disposal, illegal construction and hunting, uncertain land ownership, and an unqualified hospitality sector. These are due to Albania's long isolation, but are being dealt with and improvement is being seen constantly. Most main and coastal roads, some mountainous ones, and water supply and treatment facilities have been recently reconstructed mainly through IPA pre-accession funds to the European Union. The private sector and foreign donors are heavily investing in accommodation and renovations at historical sites, while seasonal charter flights and all year round cruises are making their presence known in Tirana Airport and Albania's main sea ports. Others are expressing interest or investing in building tourist resorts, yacht marinas, or in the attractive real estate market.[9]
Towns and archaeological sites
Stemming from a rich history of civilizations, Albania holds a mix of interesting artifacts. Since 2013, town centers in Albania are being redesigned and facades painted to reflect a more Mediterranean look. The most visited towns are:
Natural attractions and emerging agritourism areas
Northern Albania
Northern Albania is known for its alpine mountainous landscape, conservative highlands, historic regions, large hydroelectric reservoirs, traditional inns and camping areas, and where the southern most glaciers of Europe are located.
Valbonë Valley National Park also called the Albanian miracle of the Alps, is a part of the Albanian Alps mountain range. The vegetation of the Albanian Alps is among the richest in South Europe and one of the main central European regions for flora. To date, 1611 wild plants have been described in the Albanian part alone. In total, 50 flora species are endemic, sub-endemic and endangered plant species. The park covers 8,000 hectares including the Valbonë Valley and the Valbona River and lies between high and craggy peaks bordering on Theth National Park, Gashi River, Plava and Gucia (Montenegro), all strictly protected natural areas.
Four villages are located within the park (Dragobi, Valbonë, Cerem and Rragam). All of these factors create more favorable conditions for coexistence and socioeconomical development, including Valbona National Park. Clean air, high and characteristic mountain peaks, lakes, numerous water resources, forests, mountains, flora and fauna provide conditions for profitable eco tourism. The numerous potentials of the valley enable the developing of several types of tourism such as climbing, white tourism, rowing, rural, cultural and gastronomic tourism, medical tourism and adventurous tourism.
In family and social life there are preserved folk festivals with various forms of entertainment. Spiritual wealth is manifested in verbal and musical folklore, especially in the legendary epic.
Among the traditional festivals of the area are Saint George (Shën Gjergji), which is celebrated at 6 May as The summer’s day, Saint Nikol (Shënkolli) a religious holiday celebrated at 5 December and 26 December or Dukagjini’s. Popular folk dances of the area are Men's Dance, Dance of the Bride, The Sword Dance and Dance of Flowers. Legendary songs associated with two-stringed lute, flute, zumara, leaf sheet with the toy are also among the values which need to be treasured.
Theth National Park is one of the most popular and untouched natural spots and one of the most visited touristic places by foreign tourists. The village is rich with many natural resources as canyons, lawns, waterfalls and caves. The popular attractions in Theth are the Blue Eye of Theth, Waterfall of in Grunas, Grunas Canyon and the Ethnographic Musuem of Theth.
Lake Koman Ferry is a passenger ferry service operated by several local companies along the Koman Reservoir (Koman Lake).
The line is known for its breath taking views of the mountain gorges, unscheduled stops along the way for serving locals, and the peculiar atmosphere of both locals, foreigners, and even animals being fitted on board up to full capacity.
According to Bradt Travel Guides, the journey is described as one of the world's great boat trips only comparable to the Scandinavian fjords.
The city of Shkodër was known under the name Scodra and was the capital of the Labeates, an ancient Illyrian tribe. The city and the surrounding area are blessed with a large variety of natural and cultural elements.
The most attractive quarters of the city are commonly thought to be Pjaca, identifiable as the main city centre between statues of the Albanian Roman Ratholic nun Mother Teresa, Luigj Gurakuqi and Gjuhadol. The neighborhood around one of the most scenic streets connecting the Cathedral on the east side of town with the middle of the city. The most recognizable memorial is the ancient castle of Rozafa known also as Rozafati.
Many visitors feel that Shkodër is the soul of Albania. The very characteristic appearance of the city is formed by the juxtaposition of ancient houses and narrow streets joined with stone walls and modern buildings.
The Shkodra Lake lies on the border of Albania and Montenegro and is the largest lake in the Southern Europe. It is named after the historical city of Shkodër. The climate type is hot-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers. The Lake system is a well-known hotspot of freshwater biodiversity and harbors a highly diverse mollusc fauna.
Shkodra Lake is one of the largest bird reserves in Europe, having 270 bird species, among which are some of the last pelicans in Europe, and thus popular with birders. The lake also contains habitats of seagulls and herons
Central Albania
Central Albania alternates between hilly and mountainous topography, ancient castles and rich culinary traditions of rural Tirana, Elbasan, and Gramsh. The western lowland of Albania alternates between archaeological sites, castles, long stretches of curative sandy beaches, and lagoon areas perfect for bird-watching. In total, the coastline of Albania stretches over 476 km (296 mi)[11] and is administered by the AKB National Coastal Agency [1].
The port city Durrës is the second largest city of Albania, and one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. It is one of the most ancient cities in the historical and cultural space of the Adriatic Sea. Durres offers many of ancient sights for the tourists. The city's beaches are also a popular destination for many foreign and local tourists. The Amphitheatre of Durrës, with a capacity of 20,000 people and more than 120 meters in diameter, is one of the largest in the Balkan peninsula. It was built in the 2nd century AD. The amphitheatre is one of the most magnificent structures at that time. Next to the Amphitheatre is the Ethnographic Museum. The Museum houses many local craft items and traditional costumes of Durrës and its neighborhood. The site currently functions as a museum. Another attraction of the city is the The Beauty of Durrës. It is the most ancient and important mosaic found in Albania.
The beach include soft sands, warm Adriatic waters and lots of restaurants and cafes. This all ensures recovering on hot, summer days and swimming.
The city of Krujë is known for its long history, medieval fortresses and archeological remains. It lies on a mountain about 600 metres (1,969 ft) above sea level. The name Krujë thought to have origin from the word source, because of the many water sources located in Krujë[12].
In Krujë, Gjergj KastriotiSkanderbeg protected Albania and Europe from the Ottomans. The main attraction of the city is the museum of the national hero Skanderbeg situated in an ancient Illyrian castle, which took its present facade during the 5th and 6th century.
The Old Bazaar of Kruja is situated near the castle. It is one of Albania’s largest handicrafts market. The bazaar has operated since the 15th century[13].
Cape of Rodon is a rocky cape on the Adriatic Sea north of Durrës. It is the biggest cape in Albania. The Castle of Rodon was built in 1451 - 1452 by the Albanian national hero, Gjergj Kastriot Skanderbeg. According to the Illyrian mythology, Rhodos was a sea god like Poseidon and Neptune.[14]
Southern Albania
Southern and Southeastern Albania are mostly mountainous and known for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Orthodox monasteries, Albanian Renaissance figures, and long stretches of shingle and sandy beaches along the Albanian Riviera and Lake Ohrid. The southern Albania holds numerous archaeological wonders.
The port city of Sarandë is a small town of about 22.000 inhabitants. It is situated on an open sea gulf of the Ionian Sea in the central Mediterranean, about 14 km (8.7 mi) east of the north end of the Greek island of Corfu. Honeymooners traditionally spend their holidays here.
Sarandë is an ancient town, first inhabited by the Illyrian tribe of Chaonians who named it Onchesmus. The town has a typical Mediterranean climate, averaging over 300 sunny days a year. During the summer temperatures may rise as high as 30 degrees Celsius. It's a prosperous region with varied attractions, plants and mountains, rivers and lakes, springs and virgin beaches, citrus plantations, olive groves and vineyards, pastures and woods, fish and shellfish farming, desirable hunting places. In short, the right place for the development of tourism. Saranda's stony beaches are quite decent and there are plenty of sights in and around town.
One of the most popular attractions in Sarandë, is the natural phenomenon of Syri i kaltër near the ancient Mesopotam. It is a 50 metres deep water spring set amid a forest of hazelnuts, walnuts, cherries, pines and fir trees.
But it is still unclear what the actual depth of the karst hole is. The water in the inner part of the spring appears very dark blue, like the pupil of an eye, and a lighter colour of blue as an outer ring, the iris, which gives the impression of a blue eye.
Butrint is known for its unique Ancient heritage which includes UNESCO-protected Butrint National Park. It was inhabited since prehistoric times. Butrint was a city of the Illyrian tribe of the Chaonians, later a Roman colony and a bishopric. Butrint is some 14 kilometres south of Sarandë and close to the Greek border. A number of major monuments are still extant including the city walls, late-antique baptistery, great basilica, theatre and Venetian castles. In addition to archaeological remains, the site of the ancient city is situated within natural woodland with a complex ecosystem which depends on the nearby freshwater Lake Butrint and Vivari Channel, which drains the lake into the Ionian Sea. It is this combination of historic monuments and natural environment which makes Butrint such a unique place, a landscape with monuments as beloved of the Grand Tourists of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Butrint National Park has been included in the list of Top 10 national parks in Europe by The Guardian.
The four Islands of Ksamil are very close to Sarandë and ancient Butrint, near the sea routes linking Greece and Italy. This makes it a very important geographical point. Ksamil is known for its fine sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The islands are uninhabited and can only be accessed by boat. Ksamil is recommended as one of the Best beaches in Europe for 2016[15].
The Albanian Riviera begins south of Llogara National Park, continues down along the coast through the villages of Palasë, Dhërmi, Vuno, Himara, Qeparo, Borsh, Piqeras, Lukovë and ends in Sarandë. The area is a major nightlife, ecotourist, and elite retreat destination in Albania. It features traditional Mediterranean villages, ancient castles, orthodox churches, secluded turquoise beaches, mountain passes, seaside canyons, coves, free flowing rivers, underwater fauna, caves, and orange, lemon, and olive groves.
Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park is the only national marine park of Albania. It lies southwest of Albania, in the county of Vlorë, whereas the Strait of Otranto separates it from Salento in Italy, by only 72 kilometres (45 mi). The western coast of the Karaburun Peninsula comprises a rough relief, steep cliffs, caves, small bays and rocky beaches, such as Gjiri i Kakomesë, Gjiri i Arushës (Bear's bay), Gjiri i Dafinës (Laurel bay) and 14 km (8.7 mi) southeast of Gjiri i Arushës is located the most interesting Gramata Bay, a small bay where ships and vessels anchored since antiquity.
The Karaburun Peninsula is completely undeveloped and offers hiking opportunity. A part of the Mountains is designated as a national park which is rich in wildlife, including deer, foxes, wild boars and even wolves. The marine park features ruins of sunken Greek, Roman and World War II ships, rich underwater fauna, steep cliffs and giant caves, ancient inscriptions of sailors on shore, secluded beaches, and scenic views of the coastline. Be advised that the park is located nearby military bases so permission may be required from local authorities first. The hiring of a professional local diver for serving as tour guide is strongly recommended. Roads are in inaccessible and the only ways to reach the above areas is by sea or through all day hiking.
The beach of Borsh is the largest beach in the Ionian Sea. It is famous for its olive and citrus plantations. The thing that makes Borsh very popular, is its beach. Several hotels, clubs and restaurants are built along the length of the beach. The hospitality of the villagers and the traditional dish of grilled lamb are distinctive features found in Borsh.
The town of Himarë consists of the old town, Kastro, situated on and around the old castle and the coastal region of Spilea, which is the touristic and economic center of the region. Other parts of the town are Potami, Livadhi, Zhamari, Michaili and Stefaneli. North of the town of Himarë lie the villages of Vuno, Ilias, Dhërmi with its coastal region Jaliskari and Palasë. The village of Dhërmi is built on a slope of the Ceraunian Mountains at approximately 200 meters in altitude. Dhërmi is one of the pearl of the Albanian Riviera and rich in history. In addition, it is considered by the Albanian youth as a nightlife destination.
The region has several Orthodox churches and monasteries, built in the traditional Byzantine architecture, like the Monastery of the Cross, Athaliotissa, Saint Theodore, Virgin Mary in Dhërmi and Saint Demetrius. Moreover, a number of churches are located inside the castle of Himarë, which was initially built in classical antiquity, like the Church of Virgin Mary Kasopitra, Episkopi, which is built on the site of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo, as well as the Aghioi Pantes church, in the entrance of the castle.
Osum Gorge is one of the most spectacular natural attractions of Albania. During the spring, high water from melting snow makes it possible to explore the whole length of the gorge from the river. Spring is also the best time to view the many waterfalls in the gorges, which thunder from above as explorers pass below on boats. At the end of the summer, when the water is lower, the full length of the gorge is not navigable, but there are various walks with opportunities for swimming in various pools and streams. The edges of the gorge have an unusual ecosystem that preserves the greenery on both sides of gorge year-round. Mediterranean bushes like heath and briar flourish along with a rich flora and fauna. On the slopes of the gorge, erosion has created pockmarked cavern walls with small caves. Some of the rock formations in the gorge have fanciful names such as the Cathedral, the Eye, and the Demon's Door.
Berat lies on the right bank of the river Osum, a short distance from the point where it is joined by the Molisht river. The pine forests above the city, on the slopes of the towering Tomorr mountains, provide a backdrop of appropriate grandeur. According to an Albanian legend, the Tomorr mountain was originally a giant, who fought with another giant, called Shpirag over a young woman. They killed each other and the girl drowned in her tears, which then became the Osum river. The coexistence of religious and cultural communities over several centuries, beginning in the 4th century BC into the 18th century is apparent in Berat. The town also bears testimony to the architectural excellence of traditional Balkan housing construction, which date to the late 18th and the 19th centuries. Some of the landmarks of that historical period could be seen in the Berat Castle, churches of the Byzantine era such as the Church of St. Mary of Blaherna (13th century), the Bachelors' Mosque, the National Ethnographic Museum, the Sultan's Mosque (built between 1481 and 1512), Leaden Mosque (built in 1555) and the Gorica Bridge.
The town is still renowned for its historic architecture and scenic beauty and is known as the Town of a Thousand Windows, due to the many large windows of the old decorated houses overlooking the town.
The old city of Gjirokastër is built on the slope surrounding the citadel, located on a dominating plateau. Its old town is a World Heritage Site described as a rare example of a well-preserved Ottoman town, built by farmers of large estate. Although the city's walls were built in the third century and the city itself was first mentioned in the 12th century, the majority of the existing buildings date from 17th and 18th centuries. Typical houses consist of a tall stone block structure which can be up to five stories high. There are external and internal staircases that surround the house. It is thought that such design stems from fortified country houses typical in southern Albania.
Many houses in Gjirokastër have a distinctive local style that has earned the city the nickname City of Stone, because most of the old houses have roofs covered with flat dressed stones. A very similar style can be seen in the Pelion district of Greece.
Korçë is referred to as the city of museums and known as the Cradle of Albanian Culture. It has inherited traces of French influence that can be seen in the architecture and urban planning of Korcë.
The city is an example of religious tolerance between Orthodox Christians, Muslims and Catholics.
Voskopojë lies in a scenic landscape surrounded by high hills and fern forests. This area has many natural resources like valleys and plateaus, slopes and massive areas of forests mainly from pine, beech and oak. It is situated about 26 km in the west part of the city of Korca. Founded in the 16th century, Voskopoja by the 18th century was a major urban settlement housing the Academy, a centre dedicated to the development of culture and education. Today, five Byzantine churches and a monastery from the original twenty-two that were built when Voskopoja was a major settlement are testimony to this grand period.
St Nicholas Church is the best preserved and contains priceless artwork. A forest much visited by locals is located near the village[16].
The small village of Lin is situated on a small peninsula on one of Europe's deepest and oldest lakes, the Lake Ohrid.
Lin is known for its location.
The area has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age. Archaeological findings from the hilltop above the present-day village include foundation walls and mosaics of an early Christian Byzantine church, dating from the 6th century.
The church is a Cultural Monument of Albania[17] and is included within the possible UNESCO site of the Natural and Cultural Heritage of the Ohrid Region Albania.[18]Cite error: A <ref> tag is missing the closing </ref> (see the help page).
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Llogara || || Vlorë 40°13′N19°34′E / 40.22°N 19.56°E / 40.22; 19.56 || 1,010 hectares (10.1 km2) || 1966 || The Park is known for its vibrant flora and fauna with over 100 different types of wild animals and birds including: deer, wild cats, foxes, etc. The mixture of refreshing high altitude mountain air and the proximity to the sea make it a very attractive destination for tourists. The area is also important for the growth of eco-tourism, picnic, hiking and air sports.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Karaburun-Sazan || || Vlorë 40°27′N19°19′E / 40.45°N 19.31°E / 40.45; 19.31 || 12,428 hectares (124.28 km2) || 2010 || The only marine park in Albania. Consists of surrounding sea water, 1 nautical mile from the shores of the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Divjakë-Karavasta || || Divjakë 40°56′N19°30′E / 40.93°N 19.50°E / 40.93; 19.50 || 22,230 hectares (222.3 km2) || 2008 || The largest lagoon in Albania and one of the largest in the Adriatic Sea. It is separated from the Adriatic Sea by a large strip of sand. The lagoon is part of the Divjakë-Karavasta National Park. It was chosen as an area of international importance, protected by the Ramsar Convention of 29 November 1995.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Mount Dajt || || Tiranë 41°24′N19°55′E / 41.40°N 19.92°E / 41.40; 19.92 || 29,384.18 hectares (293.8418 km2) || 1966 || Dajti National Park is located 26 km east of the capital, Tirana. It's accessible all year round and can be reached on foot or via cable cars.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Lurë || || Dibër 41°46′N20°11′E / 41.76°N 20.19°E / 41.76; 20.19 || 1,280 hectares (12.8 km2) || 1966 || This national park is home to many rare species of wildlife. The twelve glacial lakes of Lurë that were formed during the Würm glacial period are an identifying attraction.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Lake Prespa || || Pustec 40°47′N20°53′E / 40.79°N 20.88°E / 40.79; 20.88 || 27,750 hectares (277.5 km2) || 1999 || Prespa Lakes are the highest tectonic lakes in the Balkans, standing at an elevation of 853 m (2,798 ft).
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Theth || || Shkodër 42°25′N19°47′E / 42.41°N 19.78°E / 42.41; 19.78 || 2,630 hectares (26.3 km2) || 1966 || Theth is a national park in the extreme north of the country, designated by government decree in 1966.[19] It covers an area of 2,630 hectares and is located along the Theth River. The main attractions in the park are the Grunas Waterfall and the Lock-in Tower.[19]
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Valbonë Valley || || Tropojë 42°26′N19°56′E / 42.43°N 19.93°E / 42.43; 19.93 || 8,000 hectares (80 km2) || 1996 || Designated in 1996, the park covers 8,000 hectares including the Valbona Valley and the Valbona River[20] and lies between high and craggy peaks bordering Theth, Gashi River, Plava and Gucia (Montenegro), all strictly protected natural areas.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Fir of Hotovë-Dangëlli || || Përmet 40°18′N20°24′E / 40.30°N 20.40°E / 40.30; 20.40 || 34,361.1 hectares (343.611 km2) || 2008 || This park contains the largest area of Bulgarian Fir in the Balkans. Other tree species include maple, black hornbeam, ilex, red and black juniper, raspberry etc.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Shebenik-Jabllanicë || || Librazhd 41°13′N20°27′E / 41.22°N 20.45°E / 41.22; 20.45 || 33,927.7 hectares (339.277 km2) || 2008 || The park is one of Albania’s newest, created in 2008. Within the park region dwell a number of different species that are fast becoming rare in Albania, including the brown bear, gray wolf and the endangered Balkan Lynx.[21]
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Shtamë Pass || || Krujë 41°31′N19°53′E / 41.52°N 19.89°E / 41.52; 19.89 || 2,000 hectares (20 km2) || 1996 || The majority of the park is mostly undeveloped mountain land with forests, in which pine trees, and oak dominate.
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Fir of Drenova || || Korçë 40°34′N20°50′E / 40.57°N 20.83°E / 40.57; 20.83 || 1,380 hectares (13.8 km2)|| 1966 || The park has a particular importance on the trans-boundary exchanges of flora and fauna elements. It represents a key habitat and bio corridor for large vertebrates, such as the bear (Ursus arctos), wolf (Canis lupus), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus); a habitats variety of: natural subalpine and alpine pastures, beech forest (Fagus syvaticus), pine (Pinus sp.), fir (Abies sp.) and hazelnut (Corrilus avellana).
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Mount Tomorr || || Berat 40°42′N20°08′E / 40.70°N 20.14°E / 40.70; 20.14 || 24,723.1 hectares (247.231 km2) || 1996 || In the classical period, Mount Tomorr was originally known as Mount Amyron who was a central feature in the region of Dassaretis, which was named after its inhabitants the Dexari, a tribe of Epirus belonging to the Chaonian people.[22]
|-
|- style="background-color:#F0FFF0" |
| Zall-Gjoçaj || || Mat 41°43′N20°11′E / 41.71°N 20.19°E / 41.71; 20.19 || 140 hectares (1.4 km2) || 1996 || Zall-Gjoçaj National Park is a wonderful park 40 km northeast of the town of Burrel. Featuring a variety of springs and ravines, it is resplendent in natural beauty.
|}
Climate
Albania map of Köppen climate classification
Albania has a Mediterranean climate with each season offering distinct, yet pleasant weather. Some features of the climate vary by region: The coastal areas have a Central Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers.
The alpine areas have a Central Continental climate with cold, snowy winters and temperate summers. The lowlands have mild winters, averaging about 7 °C, and summer temperatures average 24 °C. Lowland rainfall ranges from 1,000 mm to more than 1,500 mm annually, with greater rainfall in the north.
Nearly 95% of rainfall occurs in the winter and rainfall in the upland mountain ranges is heavier. Despite the rain, Albanians enjoy a great deal of sunshine, second only to Spain in average annual sunny days. The overall climate is pleasant and favors outdoor activity.
Although a small country, Albania is distinguished for its rich biological diversity. The variation of geomorphology, climate and terrain create favorable conditions for a number of endemic and sub-endemic species with 27 endemic and 160 subendemic vascular plants present in the country. The total number of plants is over 3250 species, approximately 30% of the entire flora species found in Europe.
Over a third of the territory of Albania – about 10,000 square kilometres (3,861 square miles);– is forested and the country is very rich in flora. About 3,000 different species of plants grow in Albania, many of which are used for medicinal purposes. Phytogeographically, Albania belongs to the Boreal Kingdom, the Mediterranean Region and the Illyrian province of the Circumboreal Region. Coastal regions and lowlands have typical Mediterranean macchia vegetation, whereas oak forests and vegetation are found on higher elevations. Vast forests of black pine, beech and fir are found on higher mountains and alpine grasslands grow at elevations above 1800 meters.
Some of the most significant bird species found in the country include the golden eagle – known as the national symbol of Albania[23] – vulture species, capercaillie and numerous waterfowl. The Albanian forests still maintain significant communities of large mammals such as the brown bear, gray wolf, chamois and wild boar. The north and eastern mountains of the country are home to the last remaining Balkan lynx – a critically endangered population of the Eurasian lynx.
Panoramic routes
Due to the varying geographic elevation, Albania features endless panoramic routes with the main being:
Vlora-Saranda route in Southwestern Albania along the Albanian Riviera starting from coastal Vlorë into Llogara Pass and along the Ceraunian Mountains
Rreshen-Kalimash motorway connecting Albania with Kosovo between mountains along the Fan River Valley in Northern Albania
SH78 Jergucat-Delvine along Muzina Pass overlooking the Dropulli Plain in Southern Albania
_-_Monument_of_Agonothetes.JPG)
.jpg)
