Dhërmi is a destination with two sides. On one hand, there’s the mountain village high up in the hills, where you can wander through narrow, cobbled lanes, pass old churches, and quietly soak up breathtaking views of the mountains and coastline. On the other hand, life hums along the shore. About a 10-minute drive from the village lies the expansive Dhërmi Beach, with a lively promenade lined with beach clubs, modern hotels, and atmospheric restaurants. This blend of calm and buzz makes Dhërmi a fantastic stop on your road trip through Albania. What’s more, the area is perfect for getting active and enjoying beautiful nature—so Dhërmi truly has something for every type of traveler.
Sidenote: The places and activities in this article overlap somewhat with those in our article about Himarë. That’s because Dhërmi and Himarë are close to each other, and you can use either as a base for this region.
What to do in Dhërmi?
Dhërmi isn’t just for sunseekers—it’s also a great base for various activities and sights in the area. Below you’ll find tips to help you make the most of your visit to Dhërmi.
Head for the Llogara Pass
The Llogara Pass is one of Albania’s most impressive driving routes. If you have a (rental) car while staying in Dhërmi, this drive deserves a spot on your list. The base of the pass is about a 15-minute drive from Dhërmi, and from there the Llogara Pass winds its way up through the Llogara Mountains to an elevation of about 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) above sea level.
You’ll need at least an hour to drive the entire pass—plan extra time for the many gorgeous viewpoints along the way. As you navigate the Llogara Pass, you’re treated to breathtaking scenery: everything from vast pine forests and steep rock faces to the deep blue water of the Ionian Sea. The sharp bends and steep grades make it a drive you won’t soon forget.
Tip: You don’t have to take the mountain pass all the way back down on your return journey. A new tunnel has opened that cuts through the mountains in under 15 minutes.
Relax at a beach club on Dhërmi Beach
Dhërmi Beach is the beating heart of the coastal town. This pebbly beach stretches along the turquoise Ionian Sea, and the promenade is full of people seeking sun, sea, and a good time. Everything you need for a perfect beach day is right here—from simple eateries to trendy beach bars with loungers, cocktails, and DJs. For a lively vibe, a refreshing swim, and great food, you don’t even need to leave the beach.
Tip: For the most beautiful stretch of beach, head to Luciano. This beach club is pricier than most along the promenade, but it’s tucked between dramatic rock formations in the water. There are only a handful of loungers, so it’s quieter than other parts of the beach.
Visit the St. Mary Monastery
Above the mountain village of Dhërmi, nestled against the green slopes, lies the St. Mary Monastery. This centuries-old monastery is a wonderfully serene spot that offers an impressive glimpse into Albania’s religious history. Dating back to the 13th century and dedicated to the Holy Mary, the complex still features portions of original frescoes—striking remnants of Byzantine art. It’s the combination of history, stillness, and views that makes this such a special place.
From Dhërmi’s old center, follow a steep, winding path upward. After about 10 to 15 minutes of climbing, you’re rewarded with panoramic views over the turquoise Ionian Sea and Dhërmi with its white limestone houses, red roofs, and narrow streets.
Tip: For an extra-special experience, visit St. Mary Monastery just before sunset. On your way back down, stop in the heart of Dhërmi’s old town at Aman, a fun bar on one of the larger squares. With an ice-cold drink in hand, enjoy the sweeping views over the village and coastline—the perfect place to end the day as the sun dips behind the mountains.
Hike to Gjipe Beach
Gjipe Beach is one of Albania’s most iconic beaches—and for good reason. This secluded cove is tucked between towering cliffs at the end of the impressive Gjipe Canyon. The combination of steep rock walls, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back vibe makes it a fantastic spot for a beach day.
Its remote location does mean you’ll need to put in a bit of effort to get there. From Dhërmi, drive toward the Gjipe Beach parking area. From there, an unpaved road heads toward the coast. Don’t have a 4×4? You’ll cover the route on foot in about 30 to 40 minutes. If you do have a 4×4, you can drive all the way down to the beach.
The hike itself is an experience. You’ll follow a rocky path with spectacular views over the coastline. As you get closer to the beach, the rugged landscape unfolds—brilliant turquoise water framed by the canyon’s steep walls.
Hike to Filikuri Beach, one of Albania’s most beautiful beaches
South of Himarë, about a 40-minute drive from Dhërmi, you’ll find Filikuri Beach—one of our favorite beaches in Albania. The hiking route to this little paradise isn’t easy, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
To get here, drive to this spot and park in the small pull-off along the road. From there, walk uphill for a bit until you reach an open field with sea views. That’s where the descent to the beach begins. Although the trail isn’t marked, it’s intuitive—there’s a clear path through the brush leading down. The final section is the most thrilling: you’ll descend a steep path with a deep drop to the side. There’s a fixed rope you can hold for extra grip. Sturdy shoes are a must for this climb.
At the bottom, a narrow, quiet cove awaits—surrounded by high cliffs and crystal-clear water. It’s a great place to snorkel and relax before tackling the climb back up. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks—there are no facilities at Filikuri Beach.
Livadi Beach
About a 30-minute drive from Dhërmi, Livadi Beach is a long pebble beach that’s ideal if you’re after a relaxed beach day. You won’t want for anything here—there are a few cozy beach bars and nice lunch spots. Tonea’s All Day Brunch & Café is our favorite: a laid-back place with delicious sandwiches, salads, and pancakes!
Gjiri i Akuariumit
This secluded cove is tucked among rocks and owes its name to the crystal-clear water and surprisingly colorful marine life. The road in is unpaved and bumpy, but Gjiri i Akuariumit is absolutely worth it.
Day trip to Himarë
Himarë is a charming coastal town about a 30-minute drive from Dhërmi. The drive alone is worth it—you’ll follow a winding road with impressive views of the coast, massive rock formations, and the surrounding mountains.
Once there, you’ll quickly notice that Himarë has a slightly different feel from Dhërmi. It’s quieter and more small-scale, with a friendly, laid-back vibe. You’ll find a wide beach with clear blue water and a long promenade where you can stop for coffee or a delicious lunch with sea views. Beyond the great beaches and inviting restaurants, there are also a few beautiful historic sights in the area. Just outside the center, for example, you’ll find Himarë Castle—an ancient site with sweeping views over the surroundings. Curious what a day trip to Himarë could look like? Check out our tips for Himarë.
Restaurant tips in Dhërmi
Whether you’re dining by the sea or seeking the quiet of the mountain village, Dhërmi has a restaurant for every mood. Here are our favorites:
- Noah on the Beach – If you’re after a beach club with good music and a laid-back vibe, Noah on the Beach is the place in Dhërmi. Come for a fresh smoothie or iced coffee in the morning, grab sushi, pasta, or seafood for lunch, and stick around for a cocktail as the sun slowly dips into the sea. In high season, there’s often a DJ—perfect for a mellow beach party.
- 360 Sunset Bar Drymades – Settle into one of the hundreds of cushions at this cozy rooftop bar and enjoy the sunset with a great cocktail in hand.
- Salinas Restaurant – Pizzas, pastas, seafood, and crisp salads—you can’t go wrong at Salinas. This atmospheric spot sits right on Dhërmi’s lively promenade and also has its own beach bar with comfy loungers. Ideal if you want to combine a beach day with good food and a nice glass of wine—effortlessly.
- Restaurant Prishtina – Don’t expect fancy table linens or designer interiors—do expect good food at a fair price. This no-nonsense spot is within walking distance of Dhërmi Beach and serves traditional Albanian dishes.
- Mr. Chicken Dhërmi – Perfect when you’re not in the mood for a long dinner or just craving something tasty. As the name suggests, it’s all about chicken: pitas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and fries with crispy chicken. Affordable, quick, and delicious!
Our favorite places to stay in Dhërmi
Accommodations in Dhërmi are spread out from the mountain village down to Dhërmi Beach and the neighboring village of Gjilekë. For many stays, having a rental car is convenient, though accommodations can often arrange transport. The very popular Gogo’s Boutique Hotel sits on a hill, so you can enjoy a fantastic view. You’ll be far from the crowds yet just a few minutes’ drive from the beach. Prefer a budget-friendly stay within walking distance of the beach? Then Penelope’s Rooms and Penelope 2 are perfect. Step into the beautiful garden and you’ll be warmly welcomed by the family that runs this guesthouse. Every morning you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast, and then stroll straight to the beach. The rooms are simple but clean, and you won’t be missing a thing. A bit higher on the hill you’ll find the charming Hotel Imperial with a lovely terrace surrounded by Mediterranean plants. Breakfast features plenty of local products, and from your balcony you’ll gaze out over the sea. Another fantastic base for your visit to Dhërmi!
  Gogo’s Boutique Hotel |
 Penelope’s Rooms |
 Hotel Imperial |
