Best Time To Visit: The area is pleasant all year round, though in winter the sea can be cold to swim. April to November are ideal, with hot summer months.

Key Cruising Areas: The unspoiled Albanian Riviera is stunning to sail. With beautiful beaches, cosmopolitan port cities, and warm, turquoise seas, sailing along the coastline of Albania provide plenty to explore. If you desire a longer sail, the island of Corfu offers many options.

Don’t Miss: An earthquake in the middle ages left the nearby town of Butrint in ruins, which now make an impressive sight, filled with mosaics, basilica arches, and walls, and famed for their tranquil beauty. The town has been reconstructed and the castle houses a museum which is worth a visit.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: The gastronomic scene of Albania is flourishing. For a taste of the best, stop in the port of Durres and head inland to the cosmopolitan city of Tirana for extensive dining options. Try Mullixhiu for a taste of Michelin-trained chef Bledar Kola’s creations.

Best Local Dish: The cuisine of Albania is a blend of Turkish and Mediterranean influences. In true East Med style, food is a huge part of the culture. Chefs recommend that the best local cuisine is found where the signs are badly written. Try fli – layered pancakes –and don’t forget the traditional Raki (fruit brandy).

Local Culture: Albania is full of history, ancient ruins, and world heritage sites. A highlight is the striking old Ottoman town of Berat. White houses stack up the hill topped by an impressive castle, where people still live in the fortress. Explore the ancient ruins and Lycian tombs, set in the charming atmosphere of the town.

Best Beach: Sarande is known for incredible sunsets from the shore but for soft white sand all to yourself take a short sail to the quiet island of Ksamil. Paddle in the shallow warm water looking out across blue waters towards the hills of Corfu.

IYC recommends: Drive along winding roads, past palm-lined shores which fade into dense forests to reach Blue Eye spring. Walk along the crystalline water of River Bistrica, and emerge into the breathtaking emerald blue spring. Take a couple of hours to watch the incredible colours transform as you walk around the deep waters, then finish off with a lunch of local specialties at the restaurant.