Drive the Llogara Pass
The Llogara Pass is the gateway into Dhërmi and one of the most scenic drives in Europe — pine-forested switchbacks climbing to 1,025m, then the entire Albanian Riviera unfolding below you. Stop often for photos. Amazing viewpoints, mountain and sea views, and a great road-trip experience. The newer tunnel on the return makes the drive back much faster.
Relax at Dhërmi Beach
The main beach area has beach clubs, restaurants, sunbeds, umbrellas and a lively promenade with swimming, cocktails and beachside dining. Walk around before choosing a club — some are quiet and relaxed, others are louder and pricier. Drymades, just to the south, is slightly calmer and more upmarket.
Visit St. Mary Monastery
A short but steep walk above the old village brings you to this peaceful monastery with sweeping views over Dhërmi and the Ionian Sea. Perfect for a quiet break from the beach, a history moment, and the best viewpoint in the area.
Hike to Gjipe Beach
One of Albania's most famous hidden beaches sits between tall cliffs at the end of Gjipe Canyon. Drive to the parking area and walk 30–40 minutes. Wear proper shoes and bring water and sunscreen — there are no facilities. The reward is dramatic coastal views and some of the clearest water on the Riviera.
Filikuri & Livadhi Beaches
Filikuri is a small hidden cove near Himarë, about 40 minutes away — harder to reach, with a steep hike and a rope section, no facilities. Perfect for an adventure and a quiet swim. Livadhi Beach is a long pebble beach that is calmer and better for families, with beach bars and a lunch stop by the sea.
Gjiri i Akuariumit (Aquarium Bay)
A small rocky cove with crystal-clear water — ideal for snorkelling and photography. The road is rough but the calm, clear-water setting makes it worth the detour. Best visited on a calm day when the water is at its clearest.
Day Trip to Himarë
Himarë is only 30 minutes from Dhërmi and has a more relaxed, local feel. Walk the promenade, visit Himarë Castle, swim at Livadhi Beach or take a boat out to Filikuri. A good lunch with sea views rounds it off — easy to combine with Dhërmi on the same day.
Best Restaurants in Dhërmi
Noah on the Beach (Drymades) is the most popular beach club restaurant — sushi, seafood, pasta and cocktails. 360 Sunset Bar is the best spot for evening cocktails with panoramic sea views. Salinas is a reliable all-rounder for pizza, pasta and grilled fish. Restaurant Prishtina offers honest Albanian home cooking at fair prices. Mr. Chicken is the go-to for quick casual meals between beach sessions.
Where to Stay
Gogo's Boutique Hotel is a peaceful hillside option with sea views and easy beach access by car. Penelope's Rooms is the best budget choice — simple, clean and within walking distance of the beach. Hotel Imperial sits in the old village with a terrace, sea views and a local breakfast. A rental car is helpful if your hotel is not directly on the waterfront.
From the road
Practical tips
- → The best time to visit is May, June, September or early October — warm water, fewer crowds and better prices.
- → A rental car is essential. Distances between beaches and restaurants are too far to walk comfortably.
- → July and August are peak season — beautiful but busy and expensive. Book accommodation in advance.
- → The Llogara tunnel offers a faster return route — useful if you are heading back north.
- → Bring water shoes. Most Dhërmi beaches are pebbles.
