Dhermi Beach

Dhermi sits on the Albanian Riviera where the Ceraunian mountains drop almost straight into the Ionian, with the old stone village clinging to the slope several hundred metres up and the beach strung along the water below, a run of white pebble and clear turquoise water broken into sections by low headlands. It is the best known beach on this coast and has developed fastest, with beach clubs, bars and hotels along the shore and a summer music festival that fills it. The old village above is a different place entirely: stone houses, narrow lanes, several small Orthodox churches with frescoes and a view down the whole coast. Between them the mountainside carries olive and citrus terraces.

What you actually see

• White pebble and turquoise water - the beach the coast is known for.
• The old stone village above - lanes and churches several hundred metres up.
• Ceraunian mountains behind - the range dropping straight to the sea.
• Terraced olive and citrus - the cultivation on the slope between the two.

When to go

June to September; the water is warm from late June and the season ends abruptly in October when most places close. A day, or several as a base. July and August are extremely busy and expensive.

Honest expectations

Development has been rapid and much of it is unregulated concrete along the shore. Peak season brings crowds, loud beach clubs and prices well above the Albanian norm. Sunbeds occupy most of the beach and free space is limited. Water can be cold from springs.

Nearby

Gjipe and Jale beaches are south; the Llogara pass lies north.