Llogara Pass & National Park

Llogara Pass & National Park

The Llogara Pass (Qafa e Llogarasë, 1,027 m) is the famous mountain road that links Vlorë with the Albanian Riviera – Dhërmi, Himarë and further south to Sarandë. It runs through Llogara National Park, with pine and fir forests, cool mountain air and some of the most spectacular views in Albania over the Ionian Sea.

What to Do

• Stop at the viewpoints on the southern side for the classic panorama over the Riviera and the coast down to Dhërmi.
• Have lunch at one of the mountain restaurants – known for grilled meat and local dishes.
• Walk in the forest near the visitor centre, or hike to the antenna towers viewpoint (a longer trail of several hours).
• Watch paragliders on clear days.

Driving Tips

• The road is fully paved and in good condition, but with many hairpin bends – drive slowly and use low gear going down.
• A newer tunnel now offers a faster route that skips the pass – take the old road over the pass if you want the views.
• It is much cooler at the top than on the coast; it can be windy and foggy, and in winter there can be snow.
• From Sarandë to the pass is about 2.5–3 hours by car along the coast.