Himarë
The Riviera's calmer half, with coves under the mountains
Himarë strings a handful of pebble beaches between steep green mountains and clear water. It is the best base for exploring the Riviera without Sarandë's crowds.
When to go
Mid-June to mid-September for swimming; the village half-closes out of season.
Getting there
On the coastal bus route between Vlorë and Sarandë. A car or scooter helps a lot for reaching the smaller coves.
Must-see spots
Livadhi beach
The longest, easiest beach, with loungers and beach bars.
Jale & Gjipe beaches
Jale for beach clubs, Gjipe for a canyon-backed cove reached on foot or by boat.
Porto Palermo castle
Ali Pasha's triangular fortress on a causeway peninsula, with quiet swimming beside it.
Ticket: About 300 ALL
Himarë old village & castle
Half-abandoned stone village on the hill above, with a small church and huge views.
Llogara Pass
1,027 m mountain pass north of town with the Riviera's most famous viewpoint.
Boat trip to hidden coves
Small boats run from the harbour to beaches with no road access.
Where to eat
Taverna Lefteri
Try: Grilled fish, octopus salad
Long-running family taverna near the harbour.
Spile beach restaurants
Try: Fresh catch by the kilo, mussels, fried anchovies
Ask the price per kilo before ordering whole fish.
Village bakeries
Try: Morning byrek and cheese pies
Stock up before a beach day — the coves have little on sale.
Sunset & evening spots
Llogara Pass viewpoint
Look straight down the coast as the sun hits the Ionian. Worth the drive up.
Himarë old village
Sunset from the ruined castle above the bay, with almost nobody around.
Hikes nearby
- Llogara to Gjipe · 12 km · Moderate