Albania Coast - Jewel of the Adriatic. Kayaking, Hiking and Watersports WEE

Discover one of Albania’s great gems - the coastline that extends along the Adriatic and Ionian sea. A dreamy mix of clear blue waters and pebbly beaches, secluded bays and caves waiting to be explored in our kayaks. Join us as we discover this unique blend of coastal shores, cliffs and walks on trails parallel to the Ionian sea with some beautiful panoramic views.

Hike the stunning coastal trail, visit the 100m deep Gjipe Bay canyon, kayak along the coast to hidden bays and swim in the bright blue waters of Albania. Get a close glimpse of a different pace of life and enjoy the famous Albanian hospitality and local traditions. Albania is considered by man to be Europe's last hidden gem, now is the perfect time to visit before it becomes as busy as Croatia just along the coast.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay on the coast near Dhermi - the Albanian riviera
• Enjoy a scenic hike following the White Trail to the San Andreas Bay and swim in the dazzling blue waters
• Kayak along the coast stopping in a bay for lunch
• Spend a night in the vibrant capital Tirana
• A small group limited to just 16 with an English speaking local Albanian Guide

HOLIDAY DESCRIPTION

Nestled between the turquoise waters of Italy and northern Greece and on the same coastline at Croatia, Albania is still a relatively undiscovered gem - think Croatia many years ago. From pebble/sandy Mediterranean beaches to rugged mountains, cliffs and caves it offers a tranquil and diverse experience in nature.

No need to compromise between a mountain or a beach holiday since this trip offers the best of both worlds. We enjoy the scenery beneath the towering coastal mountains as we kayak through the stunning crystal waters to Gjipe Bay and we have a hike included too.

This trip provides a balance between tranquillity and adventure as we have planned some exciting and optional activities. Choose from bathing under the Albanian sun or hire out power boats or do other watersports on the coast. You can also self explore the area or just enjoy the beach and sea. In the evening you have the beach bars and music to enjoy - it’s quite a party atmosphere at night.

Driving - There are several hours each way to the coast and back.

ITINERARY

Friday

Transfer from Tirana airport to Dhermi coastline where we check-in at our accommodation and enjoy our first evening on the coast, with its bars and restaurants.

The beach is famous for its crystal clear waters and blue sea.

Saturday

We kayak to one of the most stunning places on the coast - Gjipe Bay canyon. Here (tide permitting - it’s not always possible) we explore the Pirate’s Cave from the inside - a cave where pirates would seek shelter. The canyon gives off a hint of a mini Grand Canyon feeling with its red walls.

This afternoon we return to the beach with a range of activities awaiting, including (optional extras): SUP, wind surf, water skiing or just a relaxing afternoon at the beach. All water activities are subject to sea conditions and availability.

Sunday

Hike: Palase’s River Delta - Bay of San Andreas
Distance: 6 miles (9km)
Grading: Moderate
Ascent: 240m
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

This morning we start from the delta of Palase Beach, where the white beach pebbles and the turquoise waters make the perfect postcard picture. From there on we indulge in the scenery of woodlands, cliffs and the clear Ionian sea following the White Trail to San Andreas Bay. We have time to enjoy the bay and the sea before being collected by a speedboat for the ride back.

We then arrive at the capital Tirana late evening where our guide departs and you can self explore this city and enjoy its nightlife.

Monday

The trip ends after breakfast in Tirana. You are welcome to extend your stay and explore the city or make your way to the airport.

COST & PAYMENT

The trip is £397 plus Eventbrite fees. Trip payments are non-refundable and non-transferable.

START AND END TIME

Times are local time i.e. the times for Albania are in Albanian time

We suggest an inbound group flight from the 3 below, for anyone on one of these flights or at the airport at this time we arrange a complimentary transfer to the accommodation at 12:40pm (waiting for everyone to arrive from any of these 3 flights). If you arrive later you will need to make your own way to the accommodation (we wait for the suggested flight if delayed). Please note, if you choose the earlier flights, you will have a wait at the airport, we suggest enjoy a coffee or a snack

Inbound flights 27.06.2025

Wizzair 6:05am from London Luton (LTN) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 10:10am
Flight: W95002

British Airways 7:50am from London Heathrow (LHR) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 11:50am
Flight: BA928

Ryanair 8:35am from London Stansted (STN) to Tirana (TIA) landing at 12:30am
Flight: FR8288

RETURN

The trip ends in Tirana on Monday after breakfast and you are welcome to make your own arrangements to the airport (bus or taxi) or if holiday permits you can extend your stay for a night and explore this city.

FOOD

Breakfast will be provided each day, and 2 picnic lunches on Saturday and Sunday. You are welcome to explore the local cuisine for dinner each evening. The local cuisine is Mediterranean with influences from Italian, Greek and Turkish cooking. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free food can be catered for. Some dietary requirements such as lactose free and nut free cannot be catered for.

We need to be aware of all dietary requirements prior to booking, please email us first to check if they can be catered for: info@outdooraholics.co.uk

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• 2 nights' accommodation in twin en-suite rooms near Dhermi
• 1 night accommodation in twin en-suite rooms in the capital Tirana
• Breakfast daily and 2 picnic lunches
• Boat ride from San Andreas/Grama Bay
• Kayaking - instruction and also kayak hire and kit hire
• Compliance with the 2018 Package Travel Regulations including Financial protection
• Complimentary airport transfer at the start for everyone taking the suggested flight option
• Private minibus transport throughout the trip and back to our hotel in Tirana

THE PRICE EXCLUDES:

• Flights
• Transfer to Tirana airport on the last day (taxis are cheap and there is a bus too)
• Dinner on Saturday and Sunday (Typically £10-£15 excluding drinks)
• Optional extra activities - (as available, at cost - you pay the provider): SUP, wind surf, water skiing
• Drinks and personal expenses
• Travel insurance

INSURANCE

It is essential that you have travel insurance that covers the cost of emergency medical treatment and also the activity of kayaking (Level 1) and hiking. It is also recommended that this covers illness, cancellation and curtailment. You will be required to provide a copy of this before the trip. Without it we cannot accept you onto the trip and no refund will be due in this case.

Outdooraholics cannot verify policies or what they cover so please confirm with your insurer. The guide accepting your policy is not an indication that we confirm it is valid or covers what we list, only your insurers can confirm this.

There are lots of insurers who cover kayaking and hiking, for example the BMC: LINK

You will also need to ensure you have all valid documents to visit this country including a passport and Visa if you require one. Albania is NOT within the EU.

SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader. Outdoor activities involve a risk of personal injury. Please bring suitable hiking footwear and hiking clothes such as warm clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers - CLOTHING TIPS

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