Mirror Beach Albania: Tourist Travel Guide 2024
Mirror Beach in Albania receives excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, but there isn’t much information available about it elsewhere. That’s why a bit of research was done to help others decide whether they should include Mirror Beach on their summer itinerary.
Where is Mirror Beach Albania?
Mirror Beach is located on the south coast of Albania, not far from Saranda, which is known as the “Capital of the Albanian Riviera.” Saranda can get quite crowded, so many tourists seek out quieter, more private spots like Mirror Beach.
Why Should You Visit Mirror Beach Albania?
Mirror Beach is a peaceful alternative to the bustling Saranda and Ksamil. It stays serene even during the busy summer months, offering visitors a chance to unwind and enjoy the tranquility. The beach itself is breathtaking. The bright blue water against the backdrop of white cliffs creates a stunning scene, making it feel like a hidden gem. The water in the bay is a perfect turquoise, and stepping into it, you’ll find the temperature pleasantly warm.
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Why is it Called “The Beach of Mirrors”?
In Albanian, the beach is known as “Plazhi Pasqyra,” which translates to “the beach of mirrors.” In the daytime, the sunlight shining on the sea creates a sparkling mirror effect. This reflection is quite enchanting and is considered one of the main attractions of the Albanian coast by many locals.
Why is Mirror Beach Albania The Highlight of The Albanian Riviera?
When you get to Mirror Beach, you’ll be amazed by the incredible view. The ocean is so clean and clear that it looks unreal. The water is a stunning turquoise color. Plus, the coastline is untouched. Unlike Saranda or Ksamil, there are no hotels or resorts nearby. It’s just your family and nature.
Also, the natural beauty of the coastline is breathtaking. The shore is surrounded by lovely rock formations. The mountains around the area are green and peaceful. There are rocks emerging from the sea, which feels enchanting.
Overall, Mirror Beach Albania is a fantastic place to enjoy with your friends and family. Once you’ve been, I’m sure you’ll recommend it to your loved ones back home.
Read also: Best Beaches to Visit in Vlorë (2024 Guide)
What to do at Mirror Beach?
Mirror Beach Albania is known for a large rock in the water that attracts many kids and young people who like to climb it and jump into the sea. The water here is really clear, making it perfect for diving and snorkeling. If you prefer a more laid-back time, you can relax along the shore. Walk to the end of the beach and you’ll find smaller, quieter spots. You can even wade through the water to reach a hidden area that’s only accessible by sea.
Read also: Best Things to do in Saranda (2024 Guide)
There aren’t a lot of touristy amenities at Mirror Beach Albania, but you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There’s also a small restaurant serving simple, fresh food like fish and seafood. Stop by for a drink or a good cup of coffee.
How to Get to Mirror Beach Albania?
Mirror Beach in Albania might be a bit tricky to get to. There are three ways you can reach this hidden gem. Firstly, you can take a bus from Saranda. Hop on the bus heading towards Butrint and ask the driver to stop at Pasqyra Beach. Keep in mind that you’ll need to walk a bit from the bus stop to reach the coastline, so wear good shoes.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi. A round trip from Saranda to Mirror Beach by taxi costs around 20 Euros. Lastly, if you have a car, you can drive there. Just be aware that the road to the coast is a bit rocky. For safety, it might be best to park your car and walk the rest of the way to the beach.
Read also: The Best Beaches in Albania near Tirana
What Should You Bring to Mirror Beach Albania?
The path to the beach and the beach itself are rocky, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Also, if you have a good camera, bring it for great photos. After you climb over the hill, you’ll see a stunning view. Consider bringing some food and drinks since there’s only one small restaurant, which might not suit your taste. Lastly, along with your sunscreen and swimsuit, pack a snorkeling set because the underwater scenery is beautiful too.
When to go to Mirror Beach Albania?
The ideal time to go to Mirror Beach is in the morning. You might get lucky and find it empty because it’s not usually crowded, though it’s getting more popular because of great reviews on TripAdvisor. It’s nice to imagine having this hidden gem all to yourself.
What Time of Year Should I Visit Mirror Beach Albania?
Mirror Beach and Saranda have a coastal Mediterranean climate. August is the hottest month, with temperatures reaching about 32℃. The summer season lasts a long time in Saranda, from April to October, with temperatures consistently above 20℃.
For swimming in the sea, the ideal months to visit are July, August, and September, when the water temperature hovers around 25℃. During these months, you can comfortably spend afternoons in the sea without feeling cold.
Read also: The Best Things to do in Dhermi, Albania 2024
What Are Things to do Close to Mirror Beach Albania?
The southern coast of Albania is not just beautiful for its beaches; it offers more attractions for tourists. Butrint, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Mirror Beach. Another nearby spot to visit is the Blue Eye spring.
1. Visit Butrint
Butrint is the top historical site in Albania. While Albania boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites, Butrint stands out as a must-visit. Here, you can explore the ancient ruins of a town that dates back 2,500 years, originally founded by the Greeks in the 6th century B.C. Over time, Butrint was ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians, leaving behind well-preserved monuments.
Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll appreciate Butrint. Surrounded by a nature reserve, it’s a peaceful place with breathtaking views of Lake Butrint, the Vivari Channel, the Ionian Sea, and nearby Ali Pasha Castle. It’s a truly magical setting in nature.
2. Go To The Blue Eye Spring
The Blue Eye is a unique freshwater spring known for its stunning blue color. The water is turquoise and deep blue, almost unbelievably vibrant. The spring resembles a giant eye, with a black underwater cave resembling a pupil and the bright blue water around it like the iris. The Blue Eye is perfect for a relaxing afternoon picnic. There’s a small plateau by the spring where you can sit and enjoy the view or even take a refreshing dip in the icy cold water!
3. Visit Monastery Beach
Monastery Beach is another hidden gem near Mirror Beach. Perched atop a hill overlooking the coast is a quaint monastery. From there, you can descend to the isolated beach. There are springboards by the sea for diving into the water. It’s a beautiful spot to watch the sunset and not far from Mirror Beach Albania.
4. Visit Ksamil
During the day, relax on a beach, whether it’s a private one or open to everyone. You can rent beach chairs from fancy beach clubs right by the water. In the evening, do what the locals do: take a walk along the boardwalk and grab a meal while enjoying the sunset.
You can also visit four small islands close to the shore. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for the day to explore the rocky shores and take a dip in the water to cool off. You can even take a boat trip to one of the larger islands or catch a ferry to Corfu, Greece!
Read also: Exploring Ksamil, Albania: Must-Do Activities in 2024
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