Just four hours away from the UK, there’s a hidden gem of a tourist spot with golden sands, crystal clear waters and pints so cheap they’ll make your head spin in more ways than one. Albania isn’t the first country that springs to mind for a weekend away - but it should be. This Mediterranean paradise boasts some of the best and most unspoiled coastline in all of Europe, with dozens of sandy coves and sweeping cliffs.
Lying in the Balkan Peninsula, Albania is surrounded by the Ionian and Adractic sea, giving you a taste of Greece for half the price point as Albania is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe to visit. A such as Korca, Tirana or Peja will set you back between 50 and 100 leks - around £1 to £2 and a three-course meal for two will only run you around £33. There’s more to this little island than just how cheap it is though - Albania boasts incredible natural beauty which makes it the ideal spot for people who love the great outdoors.
You could spend your day lazing on the beach, or take a hike into the slightly scarily named Accursed Mountains. These mountains, the Albanian Alps, are absolutely gorgeous and covered by rich green woods interspersed with old stone villages where traditional ways of life still continue undisturbed. As for beaches, you’re spoiled for choice.
The largest beach in Albania is Borsch, which stretches for 7 kilometres along the Albanian Riveria, with the Ionian sea lapping at the shores. There’s also Himara, an idyllic .
