laAlbania It is a surprising country that, despite not being very extensive, contains in its territory numerous wonders such as archaeological sites, exciting natural landscapes, wonderful spas and ancient towns where time seems to have stopped.
In recent years it has once again taken center stage as a holiday destination, especially in summer, to the point that some of its places that were once a secret are now destinations increasingly sought after by tourists, but which fortunately keep their charm intact. An example of this is the monumental and extraordinary Gjipe Beach.
Where is
Gjipe beach is a treat for the eyes that comes to life in the south of the country and, specifically, between the cities of Ilias and Vunò, about 50 kilometers from the border with Greece. In essence, it is not too far from the more famous but equally beautiful Dhermi beach, but unlike the latter it retains its purest authenticity.
Difficult to access, it continues to be - although much less so than in the past - a semi-deserted beach that seems to want to catapult its visitor to an island lost in the air. A destination that is not yet overcrowded, but that, given its indisputable beauty, is destined to become one of the most visited places on the southern coast of Albania. This means that to capture the maximum of its splendor it is necessary Visit it as soon as possible.
What to expect
La gijpe beach It is a place of ancient beauty. We are not kidding, because it is the result of the long work of nature that over the centuries has given life to a place of perfect proportions and colors.
Just think that it is located at the end of a majestic canyon and that it is surrounded by imposing rocks that in turn protect rich vegetation. Caressed by clear, crystal-clear water, it has milk-white sand, sometimes interrupted by picturesque boulders.
How to get
Despite being increasingly popular among travelers who choose Albania as a holiday destination, Gijpe Beach is not yet overrun by tourists and, most likely, the merit of this authenticity is due to the difficulties in mooring there.
When renting a car, and in particular a jeep, since there is no paved road to get to it, you have to get there and turn onto Monastery of Saint Theodore and after 2,5 kilometers we reach a parking lot from where a road leads to the sea.
In reality, in this section you can use a jeep, but the truth is that it is highly inadvisable: the descent is 1,5 kilometers and with a gradient of 135 meters, which is not ideal for those who are afraid of heights . Better on foot, also to admire the different bunkers along the way that unfortunately bear witness to a sad past but that somehow, thanks to the contrast with the bright colors of the surrounding nature, manage to give hope.
If you do not have your own transport, you can board a bus that passes through Dhermi or Saranda. The advice in these cases is to ask the driver for help because you have to go down on the curve towards Gjipe. From here the distance is 4 kilometers.
Other ways to get to this paradise called Gjipe are by boat or kayak.
Gjipe Canyon Hiking
You can go hiking in the Canyon of the Gjipe, but we must be aware that it is very difficult and that therefore it is necessary to be true experts. The route begins near the main road, and since the way back through the canyon is practically impossible - unless you leave ropes hanging from the rocks during the descent - it is best to combine this experience with spending the night on this idyllic beach. .
The "ride" through the canyon is 2,5 kilometers and is along a rocky path, often very steep and dangerous, and requiring climbing in places.
In summary, the Gjipe Beach It is a splendid dream that comes true, but to achieve it you have to work a little.
