Wizz Air recently unveiled a list of the quietest beaches to visit in Europe come April, and one particular beach caught eyes.
The Hungarian airline company highlighted that the Beach of Durrës in Albania is among the least crowded during April, attracting a relatively low number of daily visitors.
In recent times, Albania has emerged as a favourite tourist spot for Brits, renowned for its turquoise beaches and rugged landscape, ideal for those keen on exploring by foot. Seeking a tranquil beach holiday with guaranteed sunshine, Sydney Evans of the Express, opted to book a trip to Durrës last summer.
As a first-time visitor to Albania, Sydney was unsure of what lay ahead but was excited to discover why it's such a hit with holidaymakers. Since then, she's been yearning to go back.
"We picked Durrës as we only had a few days to spare, and it’s located just a 45 minute drive from the capital city Tiranë, which is where the country’s main international airport is," the reporter explained.
Her and her friends' journey began with a direct flight from London Stansted via Ryanair.
Despite the three-hour flight feeling slightly longer than other European flights, it was unquestionably worth it for a few days in the Balkan nation, according to the writer.
She further noted: "We stayed in a lovely little hotel just a few minutes walk from the beach, and the weather didn’t drop below 28C the whole time we were there.
"While I certainly wouldn’t describe the beach as quiet, we did visit in July, which is considered peak tourist season in Albania." Despite the crowd, Sydney said it was remarkably easy to find ample space on the beach and secure a few affordable sunloungers, spending her days there until the sun set into breathtaking views each evening.
What truly left an indelible mark on Sydney was the exceptional hospitality and the quality of the food she and her friends indulged in. From plates of freshly caught sardines to bowls of piping hot spaghetti vongole and creamy risottos, crispy pizzas and Greek salads overflowing with fresh vegetables, not a single meal disappointed.
"Although located on the Balkan Peninsula, neighboured by Greece and Montenegro, Albania has strong ties to Italy, and this was definitely present in the food and friendly hospitality we experienced," the reporter stated.
She added: "We kept returning to one restaurant in particular, located right on Durrës beach, called Pampas Restaurant Golem, and the most I paid for a meal including starters, a main course and drink was £10. "
While Durrës is ideal for a few beach days, boasting numerous hotels and restaurants in close proximity and conveniently located near Tiranë, the beaches further south are arguably more scenic. This part of the country is often referred to as the Albanian Riviera.
"I’ll definitely be returning to Albania, but next time I'll give myself more time so I can explore this region of the country and its spectacular beaches," Sydney concluded.
