grama bay boat trip dhermi

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Boat trip Dhermi – Shen Andreu Bay – Blue Cave – Grama Bay

Boat trip Dhermi – Shen Andreu Bay ( Gjiri i Shen Andreut ) – Blue Cave (Shpella Blu) – Grama Bay (Gjiri i Grames)

Meet with our guide and get on the boat for an adventurous day of discovering caves and the virgin beaches.

First stop will be at St. Andrew Bay ( Gjiri I Shen Andreut) perfectly isolated by the steep cliffs surrounding.

Then will visit the Blue Cave ( Shpella Blu ), taken its name from the deep blue water inside.

Afterwards proceed to Grama Bay (Gjiri i Grames), the most beautiful place along the Albanian coast where we will also enjoy the cristal waters and sunbathing. It represents a real outdoor museum in a very unusual and beautiful location. One of the secret beaches in Karaburun Peninsula, Grama is the perfect place for those, who are looking for a quiet place to relax. It was used as a safe place for ships during storms. Grama name is related to the engravings that people made in rocks during centuries. The bay, located on the west side of the Karaburun peninsula has been used as a safe harbour for the ships since ancient times. On its stone walls there are writings dated back before the 4th century BC which express gratitude to the God Poseidon. Some other writings date back to the 1st century AD and have names of Mark Antony and Pompey. There are also drawings of ships, anchors and armor.

Note: Best period May-October. You should have with you sun cream, towels, sunglasses and of course don’t forget the camera

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Have a splash of fun and catch a ride today!

Starting our tour at himaras small dock and we visit : livadhi, aquarium, jale, goats bay & couples bay, doves cave , gjipe canyon, saint theodores cave, pirates cave, dhermi, palasa, saint andrews bay, grama cave, grama bay, english bay, starting our tour at himaras small dock and we visit : livadhi, aquarium, jale, goats bay & couples bay, doves cave , gjipe canyon, saint theodores cave, pirates cave, st andrews bay, grama bay, blue cave, english bay, pirates cave, starting our tour at himaras small dock and we visit : livadhi, aquarium, jale, goats bay & couples bay, doves cave, gjipe canyon, saint theodores cave, pirates cave, the coastline, coastline is the tour which combines the pirates cave tour and porto palermo tour, so you can visit at once east and west coast of himare., porto palermo, starting our tour at himaras small dock and we visit : filikur, llaman, submarine tunnel, porto palermo cave, vasiliqi beach, five private bays of porto palermo.

Dhermi (Albania): Things to Do, Beaches & Travel Tips

The beautiful Dhermi is a quaint seaside village perched along one of the most stunning stretches of the Albanian Riviera , renowned for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear sea . Surrounded by a rugged mountain landscape, it also serves as the gateway to the nearby Llogara National Park , with its trails, fabulous sea views, ancient villages, and secluded bays, not to mention the many beautiful beaches in the vicinity.

As one of the most popular summer destinations on the Albanian Riviera, Dhermi boasts kilometers of fine white pebble beaches and is one of the most charming stops along the scenic coast that stretches from the Karaburun Peninsula to the seaside town of Himara , passing through the tiny and ancient villages of Iljas and Vuno . The SH8 road, which runs south from Vlora and spans the entire coastline, winds up the Llogara Pass before descending a series of switchbacks to the village of Dhermi. Travelers are treated to breathtaking panoramas and the opportunity to discover one of the most surprising corners of the country.

Despite its small size, Dhermi offers several good hotels, beautiful beach clubs, and a few good restaurants serving seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, with mostly still reasonable prices. Bustling with life in summer, it’s a favorite destination for both locals and tourists from all over the world, and with the recent growing fame of the beaches in Southern Albania and places like Ksamil , located about 80 km further south, Dhermi represents a good compromise . In this guide, we will give you our best advice on things to do and the best beaches in Dhermi , where to eat, where to stay, and much more!

What you will find in this travel guide to Dhermi (Albania):

Dhermi: Discover the Gem of the Albanian Riviera

Dhermi (known as Dhërmi in Albanian) is a charming village nestled at the foot of the Ceraunian Mountains , a towering and rugged mountain range that majestically rises from the Ionian Sea coast, right in the heart of the stunning Albanian Riviera . It is strategically located 40 km from both Vlora and Saranda , making it an ideal stopover point. It’s worth pausing for at least one night even if you’re enjoying a beautiful road trip through Albania.

The village is perched at an altitude of 200 meters, on a hill that gently slopes down to the sea, where there is a series of beautiful beaches with fine white pebbles. This is also one of the most beautiful stretches of the coast, which makes Dhermi one of the best summer destinations in Albania , whose popularity is skyrocketing year after year, even on an international scale.

The village itself is quite small , although it has been continuously developing recently. Here, as in many places along the coast, overbuilding is proceeding at a rapid pace and residences and new hotels are constantly emerging, threatening the natural beauty and the peaceful and authentic atmosphere of the village and the region. However, the nearest town is quite easy to reach: Dhermi is part of the municipality of Himarë , a nice seaside town located just 15 km further south. It’s worth driving there even just for the scenery: along the stretch of the SH8 road that goes from Dhermi to Himarë , there are a couple of tiny villages and beautiful beaches .

The atmosphere is still quite relaxed, which makes it a good choice for couples and families who want to spend a peaceful seaside holiday. But don’t get us wrong: even here, unfortunately, things are changing too quickly, prices are skyrocketing, and the quality and authenticity of the experience is deteriorating. However, all it takes is a few steps, venture onto one of the many trails in the area and suddenly the hustle and bustle of tourism will be behind you, leaving you to enjoy the beautiful nature of Albania.

Indeed, Dhermi is one of the main access points to the wild landscapes of the Karaburun Peninsula – famous for its bays, sea caves and hidden coves accessible only by boat or with long treks through the mountains – and the Llogara National Park . With its wonderful mountains overlooking the sea, the park offers fabulous views and is a great place to escape the summer heat and taste some specialties of the delicious Albanian mountain cuisine. And then oh, it’s one of our favorite places in Albania!

Best Beaches in Dhermi

The beaches are the true allure of Dhermi , which otherwise is a village with few attractions. It’s no surprise that those who venture here do so primarily to bask in the sea, sun, and savor the delicious seafood dishes served locally. A stone’s throw from the beaches, you’ll find a handful of affordable guesthouses and hotels , as well as lively beach clubs . Regardless, there will always be a spot where you can lay by the sea or take a dip at no cost.

The most popular beaches in Dhermi are those located near the village , easily accessible on foot from almost all accommodations in the center. These are followed by the nearby Drymades Beach (Drimadhë) , situated a little further northwest and renowned for its beach clubs and seafront hotels, and Palasa Beach (Plazhi i Palasës) .

Regarding the latter, it’s worth noting that until a few years ago, it was a beautiful untouched stretch of coast. However, it is now rapidly transforming into one of the most exclusive and fashionable beaches in Albania. A luxury residence has recently been built here, right on the beach , along with a trendy beach club – Nazar Beach . If you’re looking for a truly exclusive and scenic place to stay , take a look at some of the villas in the residence that can be booked as vacation homes. They boast a beautiful sea-view terrace with a private garden and pool.

Nearby, there are other beautiful beaches , usually less crowded and more peaceful. These include Gjipe Beach , located a little further south at the foot of the Iljas settlement, and the beach in the neighboring village of Jalë . Until recently, Jalë was only known to locals and is about a ten-minute drive from Dhermi.

Dhermi Beach

The most popular beach in Dhermi is simply called Dhermi Beach and is located right at the foot of the village. It’s a stretch of 5 km of fine white pebbles, overlooking a beautiful turquoise crystalline sea , easily reachable on foot from the main hotels and guesthouses in the area. Its atmosphere in the peak high season tends to be a bit lively, but in the shoulder months, it is pleasantly quiet and relaxed.

Generally, it is not overcrowded, and in many areas, you can simply lay down your towel and enjoy the sea for free. Mostly frequented by locals and people staying in various hotels in the area, Dhermi Beach also offers several beach clubs and stalls where you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas at affordable prices.

The average price is around 1,000 – 1,500 lek for two sunbeds and an umbrella, but if you speak Albanian you might be able to pay much less. Some stalls also rent jet skis and pedal boats , while each establishment has its own bar and some also serve simple seafood dishes. Among the most popular beach clubs are the Havana Beach Club and the Bacarò Beach Bar .

Many of the most popular hotels in Dhermi are located just a stone’s throw from this beach and boast a beautiful sea view. Among these, the best are the Elysium Hotel , the La Brisa Boutique Hotel , the Royal Blue Hotel , the Blue Boutique Hotel , and the Hotel Imperial . In the months between June and late August, the hotels in Dhermi are often fully booked, so it is advisable to book well in advance.

Drymadhes Beach

Drymadhes Beach is located just north of the previous one and is among the most popular in the area. A bit less touristy compared to Dhermi Beach , this beach also offers a beautiful crystalline sea and is easily accessible, with several beach clubs , restaurants and bars , as well as sunbed and umbrella rentals at prices similar to those of other nearby beaches.

Drymadhes Beach has recently become known for its exclusive accommodations and luxurious villas . So, if you’re looking to spend your stay in style, in a beautiful villa with a private pool, garden, sea view, private parking, and much more, you might simply want to check out the Drymades Inn Resort or the Vesper Suites . In the area, there are also some decent and affordable hotels , such as the Hildon Eco Hotel , the Hotel Ionian , the Noan Hotel & Resort , and the Hotel Summer Dream .

Gjipe Beach

One of Dhermi’s best-kept secrets is the nearby Gjipe Beach , which is rougher and less touristy. It’s a beautiful pebbly bay hidden between the mountains and overlooking the crystal-clear sea. It was once known only to locals, but now word is spreading quickly. Hidden among rugged promontories covered with Mediterranean scrub, halfway between Dhermi and the village of Vuno, Gjipe Beach can only be reached on foot or by boat .

What makes it unique is that it’s surrounded by high cliffs and woods , making it a pleasant place for a relaxing day at the sea. In addition to a few modest kiosks that rent umbrellas and sunbeds , there is enough space to lie down with your own towel. There is also a small bar for a light meal or a drink.

The beach is actually the mouth of a canyon, called Gjipe Canyon , whose rocky walls exceed 80 meters in height. A path crosses the canyon valley and climbs the mountain to the village of Ilias , along the road to Dhermi. The trail is 4 km long and requires at least 1.5 hours of walking (one way).

To get to Gjipe Beach by car, you will need to drive on the SH8 towards Ilias, then turn onto a secondary road that ends in a sort of dirt parking lot ( map ). Usually, there are people at parking (I don’t know how legitimate they are) who ask for amounts around 300-400 lek per day. From there, you continue on foot on a path that descends to the beach (30 minutes).

A few hundred meters from the parking lot, it is worth taking a look at the Monastery of St. Theodore , dating back to the 14th century. After World War II , it was closed and in 1952 it was converted into housing for Soviet naval officers. In 1962 it was converted into a lookout fort of the Albanian army, only to be left in total abandonment in the ’90s. In 2017 it was renovated and is now freely visitable.

Gjipe Beach can also be reached by boat from Dhermi , Himarë or the nearby Jale Beach . From Dhermi, the round trip costs around 2,500 lek per person, and along the way you can see some of the many sea caves that dot this stretch of coast. A stone’s throw from the beach there is also a modest campsite, the Gjipe Eco Campground , which offers basic accommodation in tents and shared bathrooms and showers. Not far away, in the tiny village of Vuno , there is also a good budget hostel, the Shotgun Hostel , located in a beautiful traditional house.

Another beautiful beach near Dhermi is Jale Beach (Plazhi i Jalës) , located towards Himarë and easily accessible with a short detour from SH8 , near the village of Vuno . This beach has long been a local favorite before being discovered by international tourism. In fact, until a few decades ago, it was even off-limits to the general public, as a local army base with an attached holiday camp for military elites and their families was situated on the promontory overlooking the beach.

Now, Jale Beach is one of the prominent seaside destinations along this peaceful and scenic stretch of coast, with beautiful turquoise waters and a decidedly lively atmosphere, enlivened by numerous campsites , restaurants , hotels and beach clubs nearby, making it quite popular among young people.

Located just a few kilometers away from Gjipe Beach, Jale Beach is much easier to reach, as the road goes right up to the beach , although parking can be a challenge in high season, unless you are guests of one of the area’s hotels. However, you can usually park freely along the road, provided you find a free spot.

The beach is predominantly pebbly and in high season, sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent (prices around 1,000 lek per day for two sunbeds and an umbrella). The most famous hotel in the vicinity is the Folie Marine Beach Hotel Club , which boasts modern sea-view rooms, several pools, free buffet breakfast and free private parking. Its beach is among the most renowned and expensive in the area, but for hotel guests, it is included in the rates.

A good, more affordable alternative is the nearby Hotel Nuanti , and in the surrounding area you will also find some campsites that offer tent or bungalow accommodations at more affordable rates, the most popular being Social Camping JAL .

In the area, you will also find some stalls that rent kayaks and pedal boats and offer boat tours . In fact, this beach is the ideal starting point for a boat or kayak trip to one of the many hidden coves and sea caves located just to the north and south, such as Ksabni Beach and Aquarium Beach (Gjiri i Akuariumit – map ) , which can also be reached by off-road vehicle, and Pirate Beach (Plazhi e Pirateve – map ) with its scenic cave.

Best Things to Do in Dhermi

Dhermi old town and monastery of saint mary.

The quaint village of Dhermi can be easily explored on foot in less than an hour, which is the time it takes to stroll through its labyrinthine uphill alleys and enjoy the view of its white houses with orange tiled roofs. As you wander through the lanes, you can hear the local elders speaking ancient local dialects , the remnants of ancient Greek languages that have almost completely disappeared.

Make your way to the staircase at the top of the village, which will lead you to the summit of the hill where you can visit the Monastery Of Saint Mary (Manastiri Shën Marisë) and two small stone churches dedicated to Saint Athanasius and Saint Michael , belonging to the local Albanian Orthodox Church , which has been autocephalous and independent from other Orthodox churches since 1922.

As you stroll around the monastery, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the village and the sea , but if you have the opportunity, don’t miss visiting its interiors. Dating back to the 16th century , it is also known as the “white monastery” for the color of its walls, and it houses ancient frescoes that have unfortunately been seriously damaged by centuries of neglect. The monastery’s door might be closed, but you could try pushing it to see if it’s open. They usually leave the blue gate open on the side of the small cemetery, and from there you can access the monastery.

Llogara National Park

A day trip to Llogara National Park is a must if you’re staying in Dhermi, but our advice is to stay in the area for at least a few nights. This is indeed one of the most famous National Parks in Albania , and it’s one of our favorites in the area. Driving along the SH8 from Dhermi towards Vlora or vice versa, the Llogara Pass will be right along your route, making it a mandatory stop!

The Llogara Pass is located about 20 km north of Dhermi, at an altitude of over 1,000 meters , and offers a completely different landscape compared to the coast, which will delight nature lovers and provide refuge from the summer heat. You will be in the heart of the Ceraunian Mountains , a rugged mountain range that rises steeply above the sea with peaks over 2,000 meters high, like the nearby Mount Çika (Maja e Çikës) .

The drive towards the Llogara Pass is decidedly scenic, especially in the stretch towards Dhermi: the landscape changes dramatically and the temperatures are much more pleasant, plus the view of the sea is simply breathtaking . Along the road, you will encounter some stalls selling local products, such as the excellent honey produced in the area, while some unpretentious local restaurants serve delicious local specialties , such as spit-roasted goat, mutton and lamb.

We strongly recommend you to stay overnight on the Llogara Pass and dine on site, so you can fully enjoy the beauty and relaxation of the place, perhaps allowing yourself a walk along the trails in the area . The best hotel in the area is the Llogora Tourist Village , modern and comfortable, perfect for couples and families. Here you will also find an indoor pool, a sauna, and a large park where deer roam freely ! Children (and not only) will love seeing them up close!

Gjipe Canyon

The Gjipe Canyon stretches from the sea – where its mouth is marked by the beautiful Gjipe Beach – to the settlement of Iljas , forming a scenic valley that is 800 meters long and between 20 and 100 meters wide. Its high rocky walls have been carved over millennia by a torrent that once flowed vigorously from the mountains above and now seasonally reappears as a small stream of water. Made known by the nearby beach, the Gjipe Canyon is easily accessible from Dhermi and is a great place for a beautiful nature walk.

Several trails from the beach ascend towards the lateral slopes and the settlement of Iljas , making the canyon accessible both from the village and from the road leading to the Monastery of Saint Theodore and the beach. Along the path, which winds through the Mediterranean scrub and groves of native tree species , such as the carob, olive, and various Illyrian broad-leaved trees, you can also see some caves and, with a bit of luck, spot some rare specimens of the Mediterranean tortoise , scientifically known as Testudo H. Boettgeri .

Bay of Grama

To the north of Dhermi , there is a splendid cove, nestled in an inlet between towering rocky cliffs and called Grama Bay , accessible only by sea. Here, the stunning turquoise sea is typically calm, gently caressing a small beach of white pebbles. The bay’s name originates from its long history as a haven for sailors during storms , thanks to its protection from the winds.

Sailors, as well as workers from nearby quarries, often left engravings of their names and prayers to the sea gods , particularly in ancient Greek dialects that are still spoken in the area. It is believed that the name “Grama” comes from the Greek word “gramma” , meaning letter . The bay is adorned with thousands of such inscriptions , some dating back to Roman and Greek times.

During the summer season, boat tours to Grama Bay depart from Dhermi or Vlore. The journey by boat takes approximately 45 minutes. The surrounding area, dotted with several caves hidden within the rocks and other charming tiny bays like Sant Andreas Bay , can be explored by boat.

Best Hotels in Dhermi

Are you planning your trip to Dhermi? If so, here is a handy guide to the Best Hotels in Dhermi , complete with honest reviews, rates, and useful information. You’ll discover a curated selection of the finest accommodations to suit all budgets , ranging from luxurious resorts boasting sea views to budget-friendly hotels offering unbeatable value. Explore the best options, learn how to secure the most competitive rates, and gather tips to optimize your trip planning!

☞   THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST HOTELS IN DHERMI

Best Restaurants in Dhermi

Restaurants in Dhermi primarily serve seafood and Mediterranean cuisine (mostly Italian-inspired) and are mostly located near the beaches. Many of the hotels have their own restaurants, while almost all the beach clubs at Dhermi Beach and Drymadhes serve simple dishes, such as salads and seafood. The quality and prices vary greatly. Some popular options here include Azul by Havana , which is a bit more fashionable, and Pajti Bar Restaurant and Diego Bar Pizzeri Restorant , which are less pretentious and reasonably priced.

One of our favorite choices is Taverna Fevan , a good family-run restaurant located along the main SH8 road. It serves regional specialties made with locally sourced ingredients, including delicious lamb-based dishes. Try to get a spot on the beautiful terrace overlooking the sea, if available.

Another good, unpretentious restaurant is the one at Paradise Campsite , which serves good salads, seafood, and grilled fish, as well as some local specialties in a beautiful shaded garden near Drymadhes Beach. The value for money is excellent (a rarity for the area) and there is a selection of vegetarian options. For something cheap and quick, without sacrificing authenticity, our secret spot is Maestro Grill Sufllaqe , a stall along the SH8 towards Drymadhes, with a rough and ready service, where locals go for some of the best souvlaki and gyros at modest prices.

How to Get to Dhermi

Dhermi is conveniently located along the SH8 road, which traverses the entire Albanian Riviera from Saranda to Vlora and then continues towards Fier , Durres , and Tirana . Therefore, the best way to reach Dhermi is by car: for those traveling along the Albanian Riviera and wanting to explore the region’s natural and historical wonders, enjoy the best beaches, and dine at the finest traditional restaurants, having a car is essential.

If you’re not traveling in Albania with your own car, you might consider renting one in Saranda, Vlora, or any other major city. By booking in advance, you can secure very affordable prices! You can find the best deals from honest and reliable car rental companies on websites like Rentalcars.com or Discovercars.com .

Getting to Dhermi by Plane

The nearest airports to Dhermi are Corfu International Airport in Greece and Tirana International Airport . If you’re coming from Corfu, you can board a ferry to Saranda , where you have the option to rent a car or proceed to Dhermi by bus. If you’re arriving from Tirana , it’s advisable to rent a car. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Vlora and then switch to a bus to Dhermi, or you can take a bus directly to Saranda. Occasionally, you might find a direct bus to Dhermi (refer to the information below).

Getting to Dhermi from Corfu

Many travelers arrive in Dhermi from Corfu , as it is often the quickest and most cost-effective route. During the summer season, Corfu Airport boasts daily connections with dozens of destinations in Europe, including many low-cost flights. The airport is just 2.5 km away from Corfu’s port and can be easily reached by a local bus, a half-hour walk, or a quick taxi ride.

From Corfu’s port, there are about ten ferries a day to Saranda’s port (ranging from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, with tickets priced between 20-30€). From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to Dhermi . Especially during the high season, the routes from Corfu to Dhermi and from Dhermi to Corfu are in high demand, so it’s better to book your tickets well in advance. You can find updated ferry schedules and prices on Direct Ferries .

Getting to Dhermi by Bus from Tirana

Backpackers who want to reach Dhermi by bus from Tirana could try checking the buses departing for Dhermi at the Regional Bus Station for North and South Albania (Terminali i Autobusave të Jugut dhe Veriut) , located about 30 minutes by car from the city center ( map ). Typically, there are 1-2 buses a day, usually early in the morning or midday. Tickets start from 1,000 lek. To get there, you can take the bus that stops near the National History Museum , heading towards Instituti Bujqesor . Ask the driver to drop you off at the regional bus station.

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BALKANS ON THE ROAD

Discover the Balkans like a Local

Hello! I'm Mirko, a journalist and independent researcher who has lived and traveled extensively throughout the Balkans, from the bustling main cities to the most remote and authentically charming corners. I created this blog for travelers eager to discover the wonders of this region and delve deeply into its diverse countries and cultures. Here, you will find genuine advice from locals, inspiration, and comprehensive travel guides crafted in collaboration with residents. The goal is to help you travel like a local, uncovering the best of the Balkans in a conscious and ethical manner.

Gramata bay

Gramata bay on Karaburun peninsula is locatad northwest of Dhermi beach on the west side of the rocky coast of Karaburun peninsula which is the north end of Acroceraunian mountains. Beside its impressive beach and location it is also known for it’s various epigraphs which are carved out on it’s rocks in Greek writing, letters and symbols. Gramata harbor is located about 45 minutes away by boat to the north and is a must see place as it represents a real treasured outdoor museum with a very unusual and beautiful harbor. The earliest Gramata inscriptions date from the 3rd century BC, and continue during subsequent periods, until the 19th century. The earliest Gramata inscriptions are dedicated to various deities and prayer for deliverance from the storm at sea. In the Gramata inscriptions are mentioned many historical figures such as the Roman city of Pompeii, Publius Cornelius Dolabella, Marcus Antonius. Perhaps they are messages carved out by sailors before they sailed across the Strait of Otranto to Italy. Access to Grammata is only possible by sea.

Grammata Beach is located at the foot of the western slope of Karaburun, which is part of Himara Region. The bay served as a place of refuge for ships that were in difficulty along the dangerous coast in bad time. Originally served as an area of stone exploitation, traces of which appear today on both slopes. Grammata name is linked explicitly with engraved inscriptions in antiquity. More than 1500 inscriptions were counted on its rocks, which are mainly in ancient Greek inscriptions, followed by some Latin inscriptions.

Some ancient inscriptions in Greek language are directed to Dioskurve, beaver and Poluksit, who are saviors divinity, protectors of seafarers and ships. The formula used specifies that the author of the inscription asks for help from Dioskureve for the people and the ships.

Medieval inscriptions, written in Greek, are usually prayers that refer to Jesus Christ and christian saints. Strange medieval document, presented by Henry Daum, shows that by 1369, the Roman emperor Johani V Paleologos was housed in Grammata Bay, during a trip to Venice.

Gramata bay & Karaburun

Unfortunately there are no cruise offers at this location at the moment.

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Grama Bay | Best Beach in Albania

By Roberto (Updated Oct 21)

In our long research for beaches and coves of Albania we came up with this little beach called Grama Bay. The Albanian Riviera has kilometres of shore with pretty cool beaches and crystal clear waters, but for us, the best of all was undoubtedly, Grama Bay.

Where in Albania is Grama Bay

Grama Bay – or Gjiri i Gramës in Albanese – is a rocky small beach located in the south of Karaburun Peninsula , in the Ionian Sea. It is located in the Southwest of Albania but far from other touristic areas like Sarandë, where they have – in our opinion – destroyed the landscape. We were quite disappointed when we saw how they have developed the southern part of the riviera, with copy-paste hotels and infinite umbrellas.

That’s why this area of Karaburun is special, because it remains pure. In addition to Grama Bay, there are more amazing coves and beaches to visit.

Karaburun is a peninsula considered National Park, with very few roads and no facilities. Honestly, we don’t know if you can drive a 4×4 vehicle here. In our case, and considering the general roads of Albania, we didn’t even try. Maybe your doubt is now… how can I get there?

How to get to Grama Bay

When we were in Tirana, we checked in the Internet if we could go there by car , but we found 0 information. Since we had a small car, we didn’t want to risk some hours driving there to find a closed or impassable road. After checking satellite maps, I didn’t find any roads to get there by car.

An option is to go by walking. The most known hike to get to Grama Bay is the Palasë-Grama Bay hike.

This is a 4-hour medium difficulty hike, starting at Palasë, where you can park you car. From here, there are more than 8 km to Shën Andre Bay, and another 5 km to Grama Bay. It’s not an easy walk to do in and out in just one day … So our recommendation would be to do it in the evening to arrive at sunset time, and sleep near the beach. Then, the next day you can spend the morning there and come back to Palasë when you’re ready.

The better option is to get there by boat , or better said, speed boat. As usual when checking information about Albania, it is a bit unorganised in the Internet, and the local marketing is… well… special . Based on our experience, check websites like Viator or recommendations from Tripadvisor or other travellers, and call the numbers.

Some companies operate some days, but not others, or have private groups, or not. We recommend checking in advance and not for one day to another. In case you are in Himarë, you’ll be lucky. There are some operators there, and we tried – and really liked – Himara Seas The Day .

Himara Seas The Day 5-hour trip

We purchased the 5-hour trip, with other 8 people, on a speed boat from Himara Seas The Day. They drove us to magical places along the shore , giving us basic information and stopping at some of them.

The first placed we visited and stopped at was one very small beach called Couple’s bay . From there, we visited Pigeons Cave and Pirates Cave and stopped again at another cave that they call Thunder Cave.

Then we moved to another rocky beach, called Saint Andreas Bay , where we stopped 20 minutes. And finally, after visiting Blue Cave , we got to Grama Bay and stayed there for 2 hours before going back to Himarë.

What to Do in Grama Bay

Sunbathe and relax. We stayed two hours in that paradise and we loved the scenic views. The water is super clear with turquoise color and the walls of the beach contrast with the green nature. There isn’t much shade, but in case you’re burning, the water will help. In case you need an umbrella, there are some that you can pay for. Surprisingly, there is a bar restaurant there – that we didn’t try – but travellers say it has grilled fish and lamb, snacks and drinks.

Camp and enjoy the sunset . If you choose the hike option, staying overnight with a fire and sleeping there has to be epic. I still remember the last overnight camping we did and absolutely loved the experience.

I hope this post helps you to get to Grama Bay and ignites your desire to visit this beautiful place 🏖 Ah! don’t miss these other places in case you visit Albania but prefer mountain adventures:

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Cala S’Almunia in Mallorca

Looking for an easily accessible beach with nice waters? 🏖 Check out Cala S'Almunia next to Calo des Moró!

Thanks for visiting our travel and photography blog. We're Roberto and Ellen/Ellie, a Spaniard and an American-Korean who met while Ellen was traveling the world and passing through Spain. More than 5 years later, we're continuing our journey through life together while traveling and currently living in Valencia, Spain. This is where we share our travel experiences, tips, and information on destinations. We aim to inspire others to explore more of the world as a part of life's big journey.

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Dhermi / Drymades Boat Tours

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Dhermi / Drymades Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Dhermi Beach

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DHERMI BEACH: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Dhermi / Drymades Boat Tours

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Dhermi / Drymades Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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How to get to Grama Bay? - Albania Forum

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How to get to Grama Bay?

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I checked everywhere but couldn't find any information about how to get to Grama bay.Is it possible reach Grama Bay by boat? If so,where does those boats depart from and what are the prices? Help would be great.Thanks!

You need a certified hiking guide to take you there or a certified guide with a boat. We have done so with a local Tour Operator from Palase.

If you have Facebook, contact Himara Seas The Day at https://www.facebook.com/himaraseastheday/

They react promptly and are flexible. I contacted them yesterday (Wed) and we have a date for tomorrow (Friday) for sailing from Himara to the Grama Bay. The boat tour lasts 4 hours as they say, and costs 140 euros.

It seems either a misunderstanding or purposeful lie but you don't need a licensed guide to go to Grama Bay. During the summer it's a popular spot to visit and you can share a taxi boat with local travelers.

Out of season (July, August) a ride for yourself is pricey, try asking at Restaurant Luciano in Dhermi, the owner has good ties to the boatmen and can help organizing a transfer.

You can find GPS tracks on Wikiloc for both hiking routes. The easy to follow hiking trail from Palasa to Grama (recommeded) or another longer and more demanding trail that starts from the center of the Llogara National Park (close to the hotels). Keep in mind that there's no water or shade along most of the way.

Yes. By boat is possible. Or by walk only if you get and pay e person from the village " dukat i ri"

if you go to dhermi beach you will find some "operator" that offer you boat transfer to Grama.

It can be quite costy so don't forget to negotiate with them.

If you go there i suggest to stay there at night with a tent. it's definitly allowed and it's a great experience: you will see that beach at it's best late afternoon and ealry morning

To Grama bay you go from Dhermi, there is an agency there.

From Vlora you can go to Kararburun seaside and shores, not to Grama bay.

Thanks Henry 193

We have to decide if finally go to Grama Bay or Kararburun. Is our first time there. What do you suggest?

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