Zakynthos… island of Blue

We’re in Zakynthos, yes another Island, and yes we’re loving it, no surprise. The drive down yesterday from Parga was long and rainy, and the roads were slippery. But catching the car ferry over was a breeze and we’re here for 3 nights. We’ve come to see the natural scenery and experience a quiet island escape, and it’s ticking the boxes. At the lookout we bought some yummy treats from a couple of locals… olives and honey walnuts to name a few. Delish.

Navagio Beach… every bit of blue I was expecting

Sheer cliffs so high

Shipwreck Bay, a stunning place

It’s a long way down

Quiet villages and the odd windmill

Our accommodation is among a mature olive grove, down the peninsula, and we’re lucky again to have the place to ourselves. The best part of travelling low season.

Into Greece (Lightening & Thunder)

We’ve spent the last few days travelling through Albania and into the top of Greece. First stop is Vlore, on the Albanian Coast. It’s not remarkable, but it does have promise. Aside from all the construction, it’s a relatively nice beach. The old town is getting a makeover, getting more colourful and interesting. We stay near the beach in an apartment. The view from the 9th floor is good, we can see the sea.

Vlore… old town centre

Parga, Greece. Nice seaside village 

A tourist spot, without the tourists.

It really was thundering and lightning up the sky.

The streets of Parga wind up and through colourful buildings. A nice stopover in the north of Greece.

Parga, above

Below, Ksamil in Albania… more tropical 

Ksamil, Albania

Sarande… nice quiet vibe, looks like Wellington

We enjoyed Sarande and spent 2 nights there. You can see Corfu from the beach and it’s a developing destination. Bit of building and lots of steps, it’s not the prettiest apartment city, but it’s humble and safe.

Crossing the border today and they inspect my passport for a long time. Guess it’s got a few stamps in there, we’re asked how long we’re here. Ten days. That’s the plan, there’s a lot to see here.

Eyes on Berat

A little side trip to Berat, on our way down Albania made for an interesting stop. Inside the old castle walls is an inhabited village, with plenty to feast the eyes, this is a largely unspoilt wonder in the heart of the country. I think tourism is developing here, but for now you’ll have this place almost to yourself. And the best thing is it’s totally free… Till the word gets out, there’s a lot of interesting features here. I love the stone and grass steps the most.

Houses with large windows steep up the hill

A very old city, but a goodie

Castle ruins in various stages of repair 

Anyone for chess

An old water cistern… not sure about safety in there, it’s a long way down with no barrier at all

The grass laid bare… nature is beautiful 

One night in Tiranë

Long day of driving, from Kotor to Tiranë in Albania. We’re only one night here, but it’s worth a visit and a taste of some local Albanian Food. A slightly different vibe.

Lots of eateries inside the old castle walls

Tiranë, in the rain

Interesting streets, food places and art

Blend of old and new

A crisp and cheery feel about this place, bit old school, bit new age… It’s progressive in some ways