Holidaymakers seeking stunning sun-drenched vistas this summer might want to consider venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of Spain and Greece, instead exploring Ksamil, a spectacular coastal area dubbed ‘Europe’s Maldives’.

Boasting crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain landscapes, and wallet-friendly costs, Ksamil sits along the Albanian Riviera and is rapidly emerging as a favoured destination for British tourists, attracted by its natural splendour, warm climate, and remarkably affordable pints costing as little as 77p.

It’s hardly surprising that 120,000 British visitors travel to Albania annually, with certain locations just three hours away by flight.

Offering an abundance of scenic coastal settlements and peaceful shorelines, this represents a genuinely overlooked treasure, with one particularly enchanting seaside village winning over travellers.

Described as the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ by The Telegraph, which highlighted its “palm trees, dazzling beach, azure sea and thatched parasols”, Ksamil is located in southern Albania’s Riviera, where it’s incorporated within Butrint National Park.

Beautiful enough to captivate even the most experienced of travellers, Ksamil’s pristine sandy shores and summertime temperatures reaching 30°C create an ideal haven for sun-seekers.

Importantly, it remains exceptionally affordable, with accommodation available from just £20 per night, whilst three-course meals can be enjoyed for as little as £17, reports the Mirror.

A favourite spot for both British and international holidaymakers, Ksamil Beach and Albania’s Ionian Coast to the north featured in the Guardian’s 20 best bargain beach holidays in 2013, and the years following have witnessed a significant tourism surge resulting in increased hotel development.

According to DW.com from last May, over 11.7 million international visitors travelled to the Balkan nation in 2024, with authorities projecting this figure could reach 15 million by the end of 2025 – nearly quadruple the country’s population.

In an effort to rival more traditional holiday hotspots, Albanian hotel proprietors are now reportedly seeking to forge stronger bonds with guests by providing cultural attractions including culinary tastings and traditional dance performances.

Additionally, those captivated by Albania have been posting their recommendations on social media.

The travel guide 48 Hours in Europe notes: “Ksamil’s beaches reminded me of Greece’s. The majority of them are privately owned and back onto restaurants and cafes that supply beach lounges and umbrellas that cost a couple of euros for the day (if you come after 3pm, it’s cheaper).

“Make sure you get there early in summer, as the spots go quickly (and the best ones appear to be cheekily reserved for the locals).

“Once you’re settled in, you can swim in the calm azure water or lie around reading and eating the doughnuts, fresh fruit and other sweet treats that locals wander around selling.”Culture enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice, with an array of natural marvels interspersed with a wealth of historical landmarks. These range from the UNESCO World Heritage Site Gjirokastër, once a sultan’s fortress, to Apollonia Archaeological Park, brimming with remnants of ancient Greek and Roman civilisations.

-https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/uk-world-news/maldives-europe-thats-three-hours-10761580-