English Bay

Narta Lagoon is a shallow, brackish lagoon of more than 40 km² by the Vjosa delta, part of the Vjosë–Nartë Protected Landscape declared in 2004. UNESCO describes it as a key stopover and wintering site for migratory birds such as the greater flamingo, so binoculars are worth bringing.

Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park, declared in 2010, is Albania’s first marine park, protecting about 12,500 hectares around the Karaburun peninsula and Sazan Island. Sea turtles live in its waters and the rare Mediterranean monk seal has been recorded in its sea caves; diving follows park rules.

Llogara National Park, protected since 1966, lies about 40 km from Vlorë, where the SH8 road crosses the 1,027 m Llogara Pass on its way to the Riviera. Its black pine and fir forests include trees bent by the wind into flag shapes, and around 1,400 species of higher plants have been recorded.

Sazan, at the mouth of the Bay of Vlorë, is Albania’s largest island and spent many years as a closed military zone. Tourist boats from Vlorë now bring visitors to its wild Mediterranean scrub, clean beaches and the tunnels and buildings of a Cold War base.

Zvërnec Beach lies near the Narta Lagoon and the Zvërnec monastery, away from the crowded resort areas. The water is calm and the shore is framed by unspoilt landscape and woodland, a good setting for a quiet day and nature photography.

Palasë Beach marks the start of the Albanian Riviera on the Ionian Sea, near the Llogara Pass. Its shore of small white pebbles and clear water lies between the mountains and the sea, and the drive from Vlorë makes it an easy day trip.