The village of Dhërmi is an essential stop for any stay on the Albanian Riviera. Located halfway between Vlorë and Saranda on the Ionian coast, Dhërmi captivates with its landscapes featuring turquoise waters and the Ceraunian Mountains as a backdrop. Discover the must-see things to do and see during a trip to Dhërmi in Albanie. 

Strolling Through the Old Town of Dhërmi

Dhërmi consists of 3 neighborhoods: Old Dhërmi, Kondraq (or Kallam), and Gjilek. It is in the heights, clinging to the mountainside, where you can discover the old town of Dhërmi. With its small paved streets and charming stone houses, old Dhërmi captivates with its tranquil atmosphere. It's the perfect place to wander and lose yourself in the winding and steep paths of the village. 

The village is home to more than 30 Orthodox churches, including the Monastery of Sainte Marie Panajia, perched on the hillside. Inside, you can admire beautiful murals dating from the 16th century.

Enjoying the Most Beautiful Beaches in the Country

Looking to enjoy the pleasures of relaxation? Know that the beaches of Dhërmi are considered among the most beautiful beaches in Albanie. There are two main beaches in Dhërmi: Dhërmi Beach and Dhrale Beach. One is located north of the town, and the other at the foot of Llogara Mountain. Both offer turquoise waters and a peaceful atmosphere. 

Want more? Other beaches (pebble beaches and secluded coves) in the surrounding area of Dhërmi are equally worth exploring for their paradise-like settings. This includes Ohana, Drymades, Palasa, Gjipe, and Jale…

Discovering the Splendid Grama Bay and the Blue Caves 

Grama Bay is one of the natural treasures of the Adriatic Sea that you absolutely must see when traveling to Albanie. It is characterized by a magnificent beach with turquoise waters surrounded by cliffs. Recognized as a protected zone in 2002, it owes its name to the hundreds of "letters" (grama in Greek) inscribed on the rocky walls. These inscriptions were left by sailors from antiquity and the Middle Ages to win the favor of gods and saints.

To reach the splendid Grama Bay from Dhërmi, you can go on a hiking trail or board a boat. During your excursion, you can also discover the blue caves, named for the azure color of the water.

Taking a Boat to See Gjipe Canyon 

Another must-see site to discover during a stay in Dhërmi: the famous Gjipe Canyon. Also called the "Garden of the Gods," this canyon, approximately 800 m long and 10 to 20 m wide, offers a breathtaking spectacle. Once again, the best way to explore Gjipe Bay is by boat. 

After exploring the inside of the cave, you can climb to the summit of the canyon to discover stunning views of the town and its surroundings. 

Hiking in Llogara National Park

Surrounded by mountains, the village of Dhërmi is the starting point for numerous hiking trails. Among the must-see sites in the region, don't miss Llogara National Park. The park is full of hiking trails that will take you to discover its peaks (elevation varies between 470 and 2,018 m high) as well as its pine and fir forests. Each hike offers breathtaking viewpoints with stunning views overlooking the sea.

Note that Llogara National Park is also home to several wild animals such as roe deer, European wildcat, chamois, red squirrel, Eurasian otter, stone marten, wolf, red fox, and numerous birds (including griffon vulture, golden eagle, and red-legged partridge).

Exploring the Seafloor and Wrecks Through Scuba Diving

After exploring the Dhërmi region on land, why not discover its underwater world? The waters of Albanie are renowned for harboring a number of wrecks. Most are ships or aircraft that sank during World War II. From Dhërmi, the most well-known wreck site is that of the MIG 21 fighter plane dating from the communist era. 

It is located just 80 m from the shore of Drymades Beach. With the aircraft at only 9 m depth, this dive site is easily accessible even for beginner divers! As for aquatic life, the waters are teeming with many species such as sea bass, grouper, moray eel, lobster, crayfish, and sea snails…