There’s no shortage of accommodation options in Dhërmi. Here you’ll find something to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious high-end hotels to cheap no-frills guesthouses.
However, some hotels and guesthouses here are much better than others. That’s why I’ve put together this review of the best hotels in Dhërmi, to help you plan a perfect trip to this beautiful coastal gem.
For anyone looking for a quick and simple answer, my top recommendations are:
- Luxury: Vesper Suites
- Mid-Range: Hotel Sarajet e Pashait 2
- Budget: Oasis Drymades Hotel (or Spartila Apartments)
Dhermi is one of the places I have the strongest memories of from my first trip to Albania back in 2015. I also recently spent over a month living just down the road from Dhërmi, in another great little town called Himare, and visited often.
Best luxury hotels in Dhërmi
Dhërmi beach has some of the best luxury hotels and high-end accommodations in southern Albania.
Although Dhërmi tends to be a little pricier than other destinations on the Albanian Riviera (like Ksamil), prices here are still a fraction of what you’d expect to pay in other, better-known European holiday destinations.
Here are the two luxury hotels that I’d recommend.
1. Vesper Suites
Vesper Suites is one of the best hotels in Dhermi Beach. It offers a range of newly built luxurious hotel rooms and apartments, with a prime beach-front location.
The hotel has a beautiful lush garden, complete with outdoor furniture and hammocks, as well as a stretch of private beach. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a coffee machine, a fridge, and a flat-screen TV.
This place has some of the comfiest beds in town, and the breakfast is excellent. There’s a 24-hour front desk with helpful staff who speak various languages, including English, Spanish, and Italian.
Other facilities include free private parking, free WiFi, and paid dry cleaning and laundry services. If you’re travelling with kids, they have various family suites available too.
2. La Brisa Boutique Hotel
Another fantastic luxury hotel, La Brisa Boutique Hotel has a perfect beach-front location and all the amenities you’d expect from a high-end place.
The rooms are modern and very comfortable. It has an amazing rooftop pool with stunning views along the coast and out to sea. Their beach bar is also very cool.
This 5-star hotel is excellent value for what you pay. They have a range of different rooms, including standard doubles, king rooms, and suites, and free breakfast comes included as standard.
Many rooms have sea views but check before making a reservation.
It’s one of the most popular hotels in the area, and you often need to book well in advance if travelling during the peak summer months.
Best mid-range hotels in Dhërmi
If you’re looking for something mid-range, take a look at these excellent places.
3. Hotel Sarajet e Pashait 2
Of all the mid-range Dhermi hotels, Hotel Sarajet e Pashait 2 is the one with the best location. It’s right on Palasa Beach, and you can easily walk to both Drymades Beach and the main Dhermi Beach from here.
This 4-star hotel has spacious rooms that are spotlessly clean and beautifully decorated. There’s a swimming pool and spa, and the on-site restaurant serves delicious food.
The staff are friendly, helpful, and happy to organise boat trips, jet ski rentals, and other things for you.
4. Hotel Imperial
Hotel Imperial is a great little family-run hotel located up the hill, closer to Dhermi village than the beach. The main upside of this is the breathtaking view along the Albanian coast and out to the Ionian Sea.
This hotel has an on-site bar and restaurant serving a range of traditional Albanian dishes. Some rooms also come with kitchens if you’d prefer to self-cater (check at the time of booking).
Free WiFi is available throughout, and all rooms come with air conditioning, a TV, a fridge, and a coffee machine.
Despite its hillside location, Imperial Hotel has its own private beach area about 2.5 kilometres away, where guests of the hotel can use sun loungers and umbrellas free of charge.
The hotel staff can also help you organise boat tours and visits to other local attractions near Dhermi, such as Porto Palermo and Butrint National Park.
If you are travelling without a car, another advantage of this hotel is that it’s located right on the main bus route that connects the major towns in the area (including the Sarandë-Himarë-Vlorë bus).
Free private parking is also available on-site.
Best budget hotels in Dhërmi
Dhërmi is a fairly upmarket place, and prices here tend to be higher than in nearby Himarë.
However, there are a few decent budget options available. Here are some of the best ones.
5. Oasis Drymades Hotel
Oasis Drymades Hotel is a lovely, family-owned hotel located a stone’s throw from Dhërmi beach. The rooms are simple but spacious and spotlessly clean. Balconies have either a sea or mountain view.
This place has good fast WiFi. It’s within easy walking distance from one of the nicest (and quietest) sections of the beach as well as a number of excellent restaurants and bars.
The hosts are extremely friendly and helpful and are happy to help you organise day trips and other excursions.
There’s free parking available in front of the hotel, and a communal kitchen with a barbecue for guests to use.
Overall, this is one of the best value-for-money hotels in Dhërmi. If you’re travelling in Albania on a budget, I highly recommend checking this place out.
6. Perivolos Apartments
This excellent value bed and breakfast has a range of spacious, clean rooms and an outdoor pool. Around the pool, there’s a large terrace area that’s a perfect place to enjoy the stunning sunsets over the sea.
Some rooms have balconies with a sea view, others overlook the pool and/or gardens. There’s an on-site bar and restaurant, free WiFi, and free private parking.
The location is also pretty good. It’s a 1-kilometre walk from the hotel to Drymades Beach, which helps keep this place fairly peaceful and quiet.
7. Spartila Apartments
Another great budget option, Spartila Apartments is located fairly close to Perivolos (above). They don’t have a pool, but the views are even better.
The stand-out feature of this place is its large roof terrace with amazing panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains. The owners are also incredibly friendly and welcoming.
Some rooms come with a fully equipped kitchen, and there are also tables and chairs outside where you can relax and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets.
This place has really great reviews and is one of the best accommodation options for families travelling on a budget.
8. Ionian Pearl
One of my favourite things about Ionian Pearl is the breathtaking views it offers out over the turquoise sea. It’s also incredibly cheap, and definitely one of the nicest budget options available in the area.
The rooms here are bright, clean, and each has a modern en-suite bathroom. Their beds are also some of the comfiest you’ll find in a budget hotel in Albania.
One thing to bear in mind is that none of the rooms here have any kitchen facilities (other than a fridge).
However, you can enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of wine at sunset gazing at the world-class view from one of the private balconies.
It’s also a fairly long walk from the beach, but the views from this place are really stunning. I think this more than makes up for it, and several of the rooms have large windows overlooking the sea.
You can see the sea from your bed :).
Go for one of the rooms with a balcony and a sea view – you won’t regret it!
Apartments & villas in Dhërmi
If you’d prefer to stay in a self-catering apartment or a villa, take a look at some of these great places.
9. Green Coast Resort 136
If you’re looking to push the boat out a little, Green Coast Resort has one of the best and most luxurious villas in the area.
It’s located near the quietest, most exclusive end of Palasa Beach, so you’ll be able to enjoy this stunning stretch of coast minus the crowds.
Fun fact: this section of the beach is sometimes called Caesar’s beach. Julius Caesar landed and rested his army here during his invasion of Macedonia in 48 BC.
The property itself is spacious, modern, and high-spec, with a great kitchen, 2 luxurious bathrooms, and a stylish living room.
There are 2 main bedrooms and 2 sofa beds in the living room, and the property can be configured to sleep up to 7 guests. It has a beautiful garden, a sun terrace, and a large open-plan kitchen-dining area.
From the terrace, you can enjoy an amazing sea view.
The villa also comes complete with a long list of amenities, including a large flat-screen TV with streaming services, a coffee maker, a selection of board games, a dishwasher, a washing machine, a tumble dryer, and air-con throughout.
10. Serendipity Family Room
For something a little cheaper, take a look at Serendipity Family Room.
This place has a great location, on the road that connects Dhërmi village to Dhërmi beach. From here, it’s only a couple of minutes walk down to the beach.
The apartment sleeps up to 4 guests (1 large double bed, 2 single bunk beds) so would be a great option for families. It’s fairly spacious and well-equipped, with all of the facilities that you need for an easy and comfortable stay.
There’s a small kitchen, a shaded balcony/terrace with an outdoor dining area, and laundry facilities for your convenience.
Other places nearby
If the above Dhërmi hotels are fully booked, try using this handy search feature to see other highly-rated options nearby:
Hostels in Dhërmi
I’m not aware of any good hostels in Dhërmi (let me know below if you know of any!). Given the recent increase in tourism in this part of Albania, my guess is that a few will spring up over the next couple of years.
Either way, a private room in a budget hotel in Albania often costs less than a dorm bed in many other parts of Europe.
My number-one recommendation if you’re travelling to Dhërmi on a budget is Oasis Drymades Hotel.
Alternatively, check out Himara Relax Hostel in nearby Himarë.
Campsites in Dhërmi beach
When I first visited Albania in 2015, this area was much less developed and I wild camped on Dhërmi beach without any issues.
Sadly, that’s no longer allowed (though you could probably get away with it if you’re there during the winter off-season).
There are no stand-out fantastic campsites in Dhërmi. The Sea Turtle Camp, close to Drymades Beach, is probably your best option. They have a range of pitches and you can either bring your own tent or rent one from them.
There’s a swimming pool and a bar, and you can buy food from them, including breakfast. The bathroom facilities are okay but not wonderful.
If you’re looking for a great campsite, you’re better off heading to either Jale or Himarë where the options are much better.
Restaurants in Dhërmi
Being one of the most popular tourist destinations in southern Albania, there’s a great selection of restaurants and bars in Dhërmi, ranging from simple local spots to fancy fine dining places.
Some of my favourites are:
- Pajti Bar Restorant (seafood/Albanian)
- Harry’s Creperie on the Beach (crepes)
- Yamato Drymades (Japanese/sushi)
- Morsi Drymades (Italian)
Why visit Dhermi?
Dhërmi village itself is incredibly picturesque, with its beautiful stone streets and rows of whitewashed buildings with orange tile roofs, nestled into the hillside 200 metres above the sparkling Ionian Sea.
Below, Dhërmi Beach is a 2-kilometre-long stretch of clean pebbly beach, with impossibly clear turquoise water and a dramatic mountainous backdrop.
It’s also a fantastic base for exploring more of the gorgeous Albanian Riviera.
Where is Dhërmi?
The village of Dhërmi is located in the south of Albania. It’s on the main coastal highway (SH-8), between the breathtaking Llogara Pass and the town of Himarë.
See also: How to visit the Blue Eye (a beautiful natural spring near Saranda)
Things to see and do in Dhërmi
Dhërmi is primarily a beach destination known for its impossibly clear turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. It’s an amazing place for snorkelling, swimming, paddle boarding, and kayaking.
Several vendors on the beach will be happy to rent you equipment and arrange for you to do various other water sports, including sailing, jet skiing, and scuba diving.
As well as the beautiful beach, be sure to spend some time exploring the village of Dhërmi up on the hill. It’s a really attractive little place.
If you’re into hiking, there’s a fantastic 4-kilometre trail that runs between Dhërmi village and Gjipe beach. It starts here (Google Maps).
Day trips from Dhërmi
If you have the time, I’d highly recommend taking a day trip or two to discover some of the other amazing destinations close by.
These include, in no particular order:
- Himarë Castle and Old Town
- Porto Palermo Castle
- the Llogara Pass (an incredible drive, and a popular place for tandem paragliding)
- Gjipe Canyon and Gjipe beach
- Livadhi Beach, Aquarium Beach, and Jale Beach (there’s a fantastic hiking trail that links these all together – see this post for more info)
- Borsh beach
- Ksamil and Butrint National Park
If you have your own car, it’s easy to reach all of these places under your own steam.
Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes one or more of these destinations.
How to get to Dhërmi Beach
A new airport is currently being built in Vlorë, which will make getting to Dhërmi much easier and quicker once it’s open.
For now, the closest major international airports to Dhërmi are Tirana (the Albanian capital), and Corfu (in Greece).
From Tirana, it’s about 4 hours to Dhërmi by car. Car hire from Tirana airport is usually fairly affordable and the road is well-paved and easy to drive on.
You can also take the bus from Tirana to Dhërmi. This is usually the cheapest option (the ticket costs less than €10).
However, Albanian bus timetables tend to be somewhat erratic, and the journey takes the best part of a day. Personally, I’d hire a car if you can.
Another option is to fly to Corfu and catch the ferry to Sarandë, which only takes about 30 minutes.
Ferries run throughout the year, although there are fewer crossings in the winter. In the summer months, there are several ferries running per day.
From Sarandë, the drive to Dhërmi takes about 2 hours and follows the coast virtually the whole way.
This is one of the most spectacular and incredible coastal drives I’ve ever done and I’d really recommend it.
If you have time, I recommend stopping off at Gjipe Beach, Jale, and Himarë along the way.
To get to Dhërmi Beach from the village, you need to take this exit off the main road – which is also where most buses stop – and drive/walk all the way down to the bottom of the steep-ish road.
You can sometimes hitch a lift down to the beach, or flag a taxi if you see one.
Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to get from Tirana airport to Dhërmi.
Also, if you’re planning to spend any time in the capital city (and you should, it’s fun!) check out some of the best restaurants in Tirana.
Car hire in Albania
If your budget allows, I strongly recommend hiring a car when you visit Albania – it’s an incredible country for a road trip!
The scenery is breathtaking and having your own wheels means that you can stop off wherever you fancy and visit the many places that aren’t connected by public transport.
You’ll also be much more flexible and won’t have to rely on (pricey) taxis or (unreliable) bus timetables.
The best deals on car hire in Albania are usually found on localrent.com. They compare the prices of local car rental companies, which tend to be significantly cheaper than the big international hire companies.
I definitely recommend that you check out Localrent Albania if you need to hire a car for your road trip through Albania. Prices are often lowest if you pick up your rental car from Tirana Airport.
🤩 Check availability and prices!
Alternatively, you can use this tool to compare cheap car rental deals:
Many countries’ driving licences are recognised in Albania. If you’re coming from the UK or EU, you can drive with your UK/EU driving licence, without the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Car hire companies may impose their own requirements, so it’s always best to check with them before arriving if you need to hire a car.
Best time to visit Dhërmi
Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Dhërmi. However, as this is the peak season, prices also tend to be highest during these months.
The best hotels often get booked up well in advance, and the beaches can become a little too crowded for my liking.
I’ve visited Dhërmi Beach several times, and my favourite month there is September. The sea is still warm from the long summer. And, although it’s much quieter than in July/August, most businesses are still open.
May can also be a nice time to visit Dhërmi, although the sea is much cooler than in September.
From late October onwards, the majority of hotels, restaurants, bars, and tour operators close down for the winter off-season.
This period might be ideal if you’re looking for peace and quiet, and for those keen to snag bargain accommodation from one of the places that do stay open.
But there won’t be much in the way of activities or nightlife.
Packing list for visiting Dhërmi
Don’t forget to pack the following items to make sure your visit is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible!
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear
- Comfortable shoes
- Waterproof drybag (to take your stuff with you when swimming)
- Beach/travel towel
- Hat and sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Cash in local currency (Albanian Lek)
- First aid kit (including antiseptic cream, insect bite treatment, and medication for minor illnesses.)
FAQs
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about visiting Dhërmi.
What are the best hotels in Dhërmi Beach?
Vesper Suites and La Brisa Boutique Hotel are two of the best Dhërmi beach hotels.
Is Dhërmi beach safe?
Yes, Dhërmi beach is very safe. Albania on the whole is known for being a peaceful, welcoming country and you’re unlikely to encounter any issues with safety. That said, it’s still a good idea to take the usual precautions and keep an eye on your belongings.
What activities can I do in Dhërmi?
Some of the most popular activities to do in Dhërmi include swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding, kayaking, and (of course) just chilling out and relaxing on the beach.
Which hotels in Dhërmi are good for couples?
The best Dhërmi hotels for couples include La Brisa Boutique Hotel (luxury, beachfront), Oasis Drymades Hotel (budget, close to the beach), and Ionian Pearl (budget, incredible views).
Which Dhërmi hotels are best for families?
If you’re travelling with a family, Spartila Apartments and Serendipity Family Room are two great budget Dhërmi hotels. If you’re looking to spend a little more, check out Vesper Suites.
Final thoughts
Dhërmi beach is one of the most beautiful places on the Albanian Riviera. With spectacular sea and mountain views, plenty of activities, and a variety of accommodation options, this amazing spot has something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a world-class (and affordable) Mediterranean beach destination, I strongly recommend checking out Dhërmi.
I hope this article has been useful. Let me know if you have any questions or comments below.
