How Can You Spend a Day Exploring Porto Palermo and Qeparo?

Along the southern curve of the Himarë municipality, the SH8 highway threads past some of the most striking scenery on the Albanian Riviera. Two neighboring spots—the deep, protected bay of Porto Palermo and the tiered village of Qeparo—pair naturally into an effortless day trip blending maritime history, calm swimming spots, and hillside village charm.

Morning: Fortresses, Coves, and Cold War Relics in Porto Palermo

Begin your morning at Porto Palermo, where a narrow spit of land connects the mainland to a rocky peninsula crowned by a triangular stone fortress. Commonly attributed to Ali Pasha of Tepelena, the stronghold commands the bay and shields two natural harbors. Because the surrounding headlands break the open sea swells, the waters here remain remarkably calm, making Porto Palermo one of the coast's prime locations for snorkeling, sea kayaking, and quiet morning swims.

Just north along the bay, another chapter of Albania's past cuts directly into the cliff face: an abandoned Cold War submarine tunnel carved into the rock. While you cannot enter without authorized maritime access, its imposing entrance is clearly visible from viewpoints on the highway and from kayaks out on the water.

Afternoon to Sunset: From Pebble Shorelines to Upper Qeparo

A short drive south on the SH8 brings you to Qeparo, which is split into two distinct quarters. Down by the water lies Qeparo Fushë, a relaxed seaside settlement with a broad pebble beach and a quieter pedestrian promenade than bustling Himarë to the north.

As the afternoon light softens, head uphill to Qeparo Fshat, the historic stone village perched high on the slopes of Mount Gjivlash. A winding paved road climbs up through centuries-old olive groves, taking around 10 minutes by car or a strenuous 45-minute uphill hike on foot. At the top, narrow cobblestone alleyways wind between centuries-old stone houses, opening out onto expansive panoramic terraces overlooking the Ionian Sea—the ideal vantage point to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

Three Quick Tips

• Plan your transport: Driving between Porto Palermo, Lower Qeparo, and Upper Qeparo takes under 15 minutes, but bring sturdy footwear if you plan to walk the steep road up Mount Gjivlash.
• Stay overnight locally: If you want to linger, consider nearby bases like Palermiti Luxury Rooms close to Porto Palermo or Vila D Boutique Hotel in Qeparo.
• Pack water gear: Bring a mask, snorkel, and water shoes to make the most of the sheltered, clear bays around the fortress.