Albania: Ice Cream, Beach Beats & Blissful Laziness

Why Albania?

I wanted to thoroughly relax. No museums. No frantic sightseeing. Just sun, sea, and the occasional (ahem) cocktail. I kept on hearing rumours of Albania being one to try, then as a delved deep in to the rabbit hole, I came across a stunning hotel that was screaming out t me and from there, I was sold.

 

Getting There

From London, it’s a quick flight to Tirana, and then a scenic drive down to the coast. I headed to the southern shores near Dhermi, where the roads wind like spaghetti and the views are pure Mediterranean magic. Pro tip: book a transfer in advance unless you fancy deciphering Albanian bus schedules with Google Translate and blind optimism.

 

Melia: Join the Club

I stayed at Melia, a resort that felt like a secret club for people who know how to holiday properly. Think infinity pools, beach cabanas, and a breakfast buffet that could does not serve your bikini game well (but who cares!). The vibe was laid-back luxe—no pretentiousness, just good service and even better sunsets.

 

The Ice Cream 'Treat'

On my taxi drive to the hotel from the airport, I got chatting with my driver who insisted I try the “best vanilla ice-cream in Albania.” Before I could protest, he’d pulled over at a parlour and bought me one. It was creamy and indeed delicious, and genuinely him just wanting to show off what his country has to offer. Evidently his mum had been taking him there since he was a kid (that was some time ago).

 

Why Albania Is the Next Hot Place

• It’s still under the radar: No crowds, no queues, no €18 Aperol Spritz.
• The beaches are unreal: Crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and zero plastic flamingos.
• It’s affordable: Especially if you’re used to London prices. You’ll feel like royalty.
• The people are lovely: Warm, curious, and always up for a chat.

 

Places I Got Told to Visit (but didn’t… yet)

• Gjipe Beach – A hidden cove accessible by hike or boat. Apparently it’s paradise.
• Himara – A sleepy coastal town with great seafood and even better views.
• Llogara Pass – A mountain road with panoramic vistas that’ll make your camera weep.
• Ksamil – The Maldives of Albania, if you believe the hype.

I didn’t go to any of them. I was horizontal most of the time. Another female solo traveller I met early into my trip while partaking in the hotel's beach front yoga, gave me the best advice: “Skip the town. Stay by the beach. You’re not missing much.” So I did exactly that—and it was glorious.

 

Music Festival Vibes

There is some serious beachside music festival game, if that is your thing. I had just missed one of the major festivals, which turns out has a huge following. DJs spinning under the stars, people dancing barefoot in the sand, and cocktails flowing like the Adriatic. It is evidently like Ibiza’s cooler, less chaotic cousin. 

 

 

Final Thoughts

Albania is like that effortlessly cool friend who doesn’t try too hard but still steals the show. It’s got charm, character, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting. If you’re craving sun, music, and a bit of scenery porn—book the ticket. And maybe someone will buy you an ice cream too.

 

Lashings of my holidays snaps here and here (for more pouty pics!)