Shore Excursion to Vlora

The Museum of National Independence in Vlora, ReadyClickAndGo

Highlights:

Day Tour from Vlora with the English Speaking local guide, car and driver
Visit Canina and Hamira Castle and quaint medieval churches
Scenic drive along the Llogora Pass for stunning panoramic views

Overview:

Full-day shore excursion from Vlora, to admire medieval castles and churches, stunning mountain and Riviera views.

Description:

Meet your guide, car and driver at the cruise ship terminal or hotel in Vlora and set off on a private day tour from Vlora. Head south, taking in the ruins of Kanina Castle, a mountain-top castle 6km from Vlora originally dating from the 3^rd century BC and rebuilt in the 5^th century AD and again in the middle ages. Then head to the Llogora Pass 470 to 2018m above sea level through the National Park for stunning views of the Albanian Riviera. Along the road you can see a 100-year-old and 20m high pine tree moulded by the winds into a flag shape, known unsurprisingly as the Flag Pine Monument. Perhaps enjoy a Turkish coffee and a traditional snack of yoghurt with honey and walnuts at a typical café and if it’s a clear day see if you can make out the island of Corfu in the distance before continuing along the gorgeous coast lined by craggy mountains to the seaside village of Dhermi where there are 31 churches and monasteries, including St Mary’s church which is up a steep hill, around 15 minutes climb, and where there are remains of some beautiful 18^th century frescos. At Himara you may like to visit the castle and the churches in its walls, and take some lunch (not included) before returning to your cruise ship in Vlora after a spectacular and fascinating day tour in Albania.