Yes, it is still time for one last swim! Now that autumn is arriving, you can choose any Mediterranean beach—finally free from the summer tourist crowds. These are the months when the water off Greece, Sicily, Morocco, and Tunisia offer their last warmth before the final temperature drop; however, if you’d like a special recommendation… aim for a destination off the beaten path. Wrap up the summer season on a lesser-known beach—perhaps less spectacular than the famous ones, but for that very reason, perfect for this «farewell ceremony». Come to Albania, to a small village within the municipality of Himara: Dhërmi.
Getting to Dhërmi
Dhërmi Beach is part of the municipality of Himara (or Himarë, in Albanian), a town rich in tourist appeal located about a two-hour drive from Vlora Airport—though many tourists prefer flying into Tirana (TIA), despite the 222 km distance. Another good option is landing in Corfu International Airport (CFU) on the Greek island of the same name; the journey to Dhërmi takes less than three hours, combining a drive and a ferry crossing.
Hiring a taxi with a driver is the best way to cover these distances and to get around the expansive Himara municipality, which encompasses various beach areas. While local buses do connect the town center to Dhërmi, the peace of mind that comes with having a dedicated driver at your disposal is always the superior choice.
Why end the beach season in Dhërmi?
Located in the southern part of the Country along the famous Albanian Riviera, the Ionian beach of Dhërmi is a secluded, peaceful little haven—especially in autumn. It is known primarily among Albanians (less among tourists, yet) for its clear sea, intense blue waters, and surrounding natural landscape.
The beach is characterized mainly by small white pebbles and transparent waters that take on various shades of azure and turquoise on sunny days. The mountains rising behind it create a spectacular contrast with the blue sea, making the scenery truly striking. Its Mediterranean climate makes Dhërmi a popular destination well into October, while the crowds tend to leave after August. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and tourist facilities can be found near the beach, offering the chance to sample Albanian specialties and fresh seafood dishes. The area also offers opportunities for activities such as snorkeling, boat trips, and coastal walks.
Beyond the beauty of the sea—which extends well beyond the village beach to the nearby shores of Palasë, Drymades, and Gjipe—Dhërmi retains a distinctive atmosphere thanks to its old architectures. Built on the mountain slopes, it features stone cottages, ancient churches, narrow alleyways, and hidden squares, all punctuated by sudden, breathtaking panoramic viewpoints!
Visiting Dhërmi means enjoying a holiday that blends nature, sea, and culture. It is an ideal spot for those wishing to relax, admire spectacular scenery, and discover one of Albania’s most enchanting areas. Bidding farewell to summer from there is a truly magical experience!
Discovering Himara
A half-hour drive from Dhërmi Beach lies the heart of the municipality: the town of Himara. It consists of the old town of Kastro—the neighborhood clustered around the castle—and the new town, which extends down to the Spille coast.
Himara’s tourist trail naturally includes the castle, that is the town’s heart; despite its pre-medieval origins, the fortress even preserves traces of Illyrian-Albanian tribes dating back some 3,500 years. While in the center, visit the delightful Church of Saint Mary; the Byzantine icon housed there is considered precious and miraculous by locals, and artistically fascinating to visitors. Legend has it that if invoked during times of drought, this icon of the Virgin grants the miracle of rain! The Episcopal Church—also Byzantine in style—is built upon the foundations of an ancient temple of Apollo. The Church of All Saints has a unique history: built in 1775 near the castle, it fell into disrepair for a time but has since been transformed into a cultural center.
Just 6 km south of the town, visit the Monastery of Saint Theodore, located on the road connecting Himara to the villages of Ilias and Dhërmi. Further south of Himara, on a small peninsula in the heart of a stunning bay, stands a 19th-century military fort built over the ancient ruins of a monastery. Also known as Porto Palermo Fort, or Kalaja Castle, the fortress houses the Church of Saint Nicholas!
The Vlora Region and its autumnal beauty
Vlora (laso known as Valona) is located about an hour’s journey from Himara and Dhërmi. An interesting city and a tourist gem on Albania’s southern coast, it overlooks the bay of the same name—occupying a unique position between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas—and serves as a destination that blends sea, history, and nature.
The city is linked to a pivotal moment in Albanian history: Albania’s independence was proclaimed in Vlora in 1912. Consequently, Flag Square, the Independence Monument, and the Independence Museum are well worth a visit. In the historic center, visitors can admire the 16th-century Muradie Mosque and the charming narrow streets of the old quarter. A stroll along the seafront promenade offers a chance to enjoy the view of the bay, especially at sunset. There are numerous unmissable spots in the area surrounding Vlora. Just a few kilometers from the city lies Kanina Castle, situated on a hill that overlooks a splendid view of the bay and the coast. To the north, the Narta Lagoon and Zvërnec Island offer a landscape that contrasts sharply with the urban setting. The island, accessible via a wooden footbridge, is home to the evocative Monastery of Saint Mary, nestled amidst the greenery.
To the south, Orikum—an ancient city of Illyrian origin—and Llogara National Park, renowned for its sea and mountain vistas, are well worth visiting. Finally, a boat trip to the Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island allows visitors to discover coves, sea caves, and stretches of coastline that are best accessed from the water.
Vlora is thus an ideal destination for those wishing to combine culture, sea, nature, and history; it fits perfectly into the itinerary of travelers staying in Dhërmi who want to enrich their holiday experience beyond mere beach relaxation.
