Little-known corner of Eastern Europe visitors say is like a miniature Thailand – with turquoise waters & cheap flights

ALBANIA is an increasingly popular destination for Brits looking for an affordable, sunny holiday.

For many, the white sandy beaches and clear blue waters make Thailand a bucket-list destination – but it comes with a hefty price tag.

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For holidaymakers who want to sample a slice of paradise, but can’t fork out hundreds on return flights, they’ll be pleased to know there’s an alternative much closer to home.

Albania is situated between Montenegro and Greece, and the destination has seen an influx of visitors in the last few years.

The country’s rise in popularity is largely thanks to the army of TikTok and social media influencers who’ve holidayed in the Albanian Riviera.

While villages like Ksamil and Saranda in Albania have been growing in popularity in the last few years, some parts of Albania have remained under the tourist radar.

One of those places is Lumi i Shales, a little-known bay located on the Shala River in the north of the country.

Videos of the Lumi i Shales routinely appear on social media platforms like TikTok.

The river has been dubbed the “Thailand of Albania” thanks to its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation and jagged mountains, according to travel website Northern Albania.

Travel blogger The Ginger Wanderlust wrote: “Lumi i Shales is one of the most beautiful spots in Albania and was easily one of the highlights of my road trip.”

Located in northern Albania, holidaymakers can reach the dreamy river on a day trip from Tirana or nearby Shkoder.

From the Albanian capital, tourists will need to book an excursion to visit Lumi i Shales – although expect a long day because it’s a four-hour drive.

Alternatively, accommodation providers in Shkoder are able to book travel arrangements to Lumi i Shales for holidaymakers.

Because Albanian is still developing its infrastructure, the journey isn’t the easiest.

From Shkoder, holidaymakers will need to take a minibus to Komani Lake, which takes around 90 minutes.

At the Komani Lake Ferry Terminal, tourists will need to board a boat to Lumi i Shales, which will take another hour.

In the summer months, water levels in the Shala River can dip, so holidaymakers may be required to walk parts of the river.

Despite not being a well-known tourist destination, there are plenty of things to do in Lumi i Shales, including a zip line with other activities include snorkeling, kayaking and hiking.

The banks of the river are connected by handmade wooden bridges, giving visitors access to the guesthouses.

There are several guesthouses dotted along Lumi i Shales, including the Bee Eco Guest House and the Livadhi Guesthouse.

Sun Online Travel have found overnight stays at Livadhi Guesthouse from £35 per person in the peak season, based on two people sharing a room.

Daytrippers can rent parasols and sunloungers from some of the guesthouses too.

Ryanair operates direct flights from Manchester Airport to Podgorica Airport in Montenegro, with one-way fares starting from £36 in the summer holidays.

From Podgorica, it’s a three-hour drive to Lumi i Shales.

Direct flights also operate from the UK to Tirana Airport, with return fares costing as little as £60 in the school summer holidays.

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN ALBANIA

There are plenty of other lesser-known places to visit in Albania too, including Pasqyra Beach, which was named the “world’s best” beach by a University study earlier this year.

The beach is known around the world as Mirror Beach because of the reflective effect that can be seen on the water when the sunlight hits the surface.

Albania Tour Guide wrote: “Mirror beach remains quiet even in the summer months. It gives you the chance to relax and feel free.

“Moreover, the seashore is stunning. You will not believe your eyes, when you see the bright blue water.

“The bay is surrounded by white cliffs. The rocky background makes the bay feel like a secret spot.”

Meanwhile, earlier this year tour operator TUI named Albania as one of Europe’s up-and-coming destinations.

Tirana, the capital of Albania, has topped the list of cheapest cities in 2021.