Ksamil: flavours and archaeology of southern Albania

Its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches and small islets, easily accessible by boat, make it a destination that attracts large numbers of tourists, especially in the height of the summer season. Ksamil is a small archipelago off the southern coast of Albania comprising the Lle Twin Islands, Miu, Sorkadhja and other smaller islets, which can also be explored by snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding: it is not a proper island, therefore, and it is precisely this feature that makes it one of the most sought-after destinations in the Mediterranean. However, limiting your visit to its beaches would be a shame, as just a few kilometres away lies Lake Butrint, a protected area where you can take part in a unique experience: a trip on a traditional boat to learn first-hand about mussel farming and sample the produce straight from the lagoon (the Mussel Fest is a tasting competition held every Saturday evening during the summer). Gastronomy also forms part of the journey through workshops led by a local chef and organised tours of the mandarin orchards, featuring fruit picking and a traditional farm lunch. Finally, Ksamil is also steeped in history and culture, thanks to the nearby archaeological site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and locally organised excursions that extend as far as Gjirokastër, the Ottoman stone city.

Ksamil