‘Travel+Leisure’: Ksamil, another reason to enjoy Albania even in autumn

Ksamil, in southern Albania, continues to draw the attention of international media as one of the European destinations that keeps its summer atmosphere even after autumn has arrived, with crystal-clear waters, white beaches and warm weather lasting into October, writes Stacey Leasca in the American travel magazine “Travel+Leisure”.

This small coastal village is considered the “Caribbean of Europe”, with some of the clearest waters in the world — and warm weather that continues into autumn.

It is the ideal destination to enjoy the last sun of the season, cocktails and island-hopping trips, all the way to Corfu.

Even though autumn weather has begun to be felt, this does not mean you have missed the chance to experience a European summer.

In fact, there is a small village in the Balkans where the warm summer atmosphere continues even during autumn.

Located at the southernmost tip of Albania, Ksamil offers sun, sand and a calm atmosphere in an area of about 5 square miles.

Despite its small size, it offers stunning landscapes at every turn, with wide sandy beaches and calm, crystal-clear waters.

One of the most special spots is Mirror Beach, described as statistically the bluest water in the world.

Ksamil is no longer a secret. At the height of summer, the beaches are often covered almost entirely by beach umbrellas and towels.

For this reason, this very autumn period is considered one of the best times to visit Albania.

In early September, the crowds begin to thin, while the weather remains warm, with temperatures around 21–26°C, continuing into October.

Moreover, the tall cliffs that protect the coastline from strong winds keep the beaches often warm even as the air begins to cool.

Despite its small size, Ksamil offers a surprising number of beaches to choose from.

“Ksamil Beach 7” is surrounded by sunbeds available for rent, while Bora Bora Beach, a small and quiet bay, is especially popular with families.

After enjoying the sun, you can head to one of the many seaside bars for a drink while watching the sunset.

“Poda Beach Club” offers sunbeds set over the water, special “happy hour” deals and live music.

“Ohana Beach Bar” serves tiki-style cocktails, while “Laguna Beach” offers food, drinks and even a dance floor set directly over the water.

There are also plenty of options for staying by the sea.

“Manta Resort” offers access to a private beach and has a restaurant overlooking the shore.

Meanwhile, the Limni resort, with only 11 rooms and a quiet central pool, offers a more personalized experience.

And here is another advantage: from Ksamil you can travel to another country.

Tourists can take a ferry from Ksamil directly to the Greek island of Corfu in about 30 minutes.

This is the ideal opportunity for a day trip, with stops at different beaches, food by the shore and walks in the island’s interior.

Although Ksamil may be a somewhat remote destination for most American tourists, it is a place where summer starts early and lasts longer, just like in the Caribbean.

Source: Travel+Leisure