Borsh Travel Guide

Find everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit to Borsh, from the top attractions to where to stay and what to eat.


Explore Borsh: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Located on Albania’s Riviera, the charming town of Borsh offers a unique blend of cultural landmarks, natural beauty and historical significance. It has become a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, and for good reason. This comprehensive travel guide will give you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Borsh.

Introduction to Borsh

Borsh is one of the largest and most picturesque villages on Albania’s Albanian Riviera, located between the Ionian Sea on one side and green mountains on the other. It is a place with a rich history and steeped in traditions. The town dates back to ancient times and has been inhabited by various civilizations, from the Illyrians to the Ottoman Empire.

The town features a stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and charming streets. It’s also known for its amazing food scene and organic produce, making it the perfect destination for foodies.

List of Places to Visit in Borsh

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Borsh Castle: The fortress of Borsh dates back to the Roman era, and it’s considered one of the oldest and most significant castles in the Albanian Riviera. The ruins provide an impressive backdrop for taking a walk or a picnic.
  • Ethnographic Museum: The museum houses various artifacts from the region that teach visitors about the history and traditions of the area.
  • St. Spyridon Church: This church is a beautiful example of Orthodox architecture and a popular destination to visit.

Natural Attractions of Borsh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Borsh Beach: This sandy beach is well-known in the area for its crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and water activities such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Hiking Trails: The area around Borsh is known for its dense forests and stunning hills, which are perfect for a day hike.
  • Canyon of the Kallamas River: The canyon is known for its beautiful scenery and crystal clear water. Visitors can enjoy hiking and swimming in the natural pools.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Borsh

  • Borsh to Qeparo Hike: This is a popular hike that leads visitors through olive groves, vineyards, and rural villages, with stunning coastal views.
  • Qeparo to Gramata Hike: This hike is moderately difficult, but magnificent, taking visitors through the Borsh Canyon and up to the Gramata Cape, with rewarding views of the sea.

Best Things to Do in Borsh: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the local coastline on a boat tour that takes in the stunning beauty of the area, including hidden coves, secluded beaches, and the old stalactite-filled Cave of Mithra.
  • Visit the nearby village of Qeparo to tour the historic old town and see the Ethnographic Museum.
  • Join a guided tour and visit traditional mountain villages in the surrounding area.

Week-Long Itinerary for Borsh

Day Activities
1 Arrive, Check-in, and explore the town.
2 Visit Borsh Castle, explore the Ethnographic Museum, hike to the Canyon of the Kallamas River.
3 Take a boat tour, enjoy lunch on a deserted beach.
4 Relax on Borsh Beach.
5 Visit Qeparo, the old town, and hike to the Gramata Cape.
6 Explore the surrounding villages on guided tours.
7 Depart Borsh for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Borsh

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tave Kosi: a traditional Albanian dish made with yogurt and lamb or beef.
  • Sujuk: spicy sausages made with beef and lamb.
  • Baklava: a delicious sweet pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweet syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Raki: a colorless spirit made by distilling fermented fruit.
  • Wine: Albania has a long history of winemaking, with many local vineyards producing high-quality wines.

Where to Stay in Borsh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Riviera: a budget hotel located near the beach
  • Borsh White House Hostel: a budget-friendly hostel that’s popular with backpackers
  • Guesthouse Vila Calemi: a family-run guesthouse with a restaurant serving delicious local food

What to Buy in Borsh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive oil: the area is famous for olive groves and produces high-quality olive oil.
  • Local artisan crafts: Handmade pottery, weaved rugs, and clothing are popular among visitors.

Local Culture and Customs of Borsh

Albanian hospitality is famous in the Balkans, and Borsh is no exception; the locals are warm, friendly and welcoming. It is important to note that Albania is a Muslim country, with traditional values. Therefore, it is important to respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Borsh

The best time to visit Borsh is from June to September, when the weather is sunny, and the temperatures are around 30°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Borsh

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Try local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter and try to be mindful of the environment.
  • Don’t park your car in an unapproved area

Safety and Health

Safety in Borsh

Borsh is a safe town to visit, but travelers should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking cars and keeping valuables safe.

Health in Borsh

The town is served by a small community clinic and pharmacies that provide basic medical services. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies.

Getting to Borsh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Borsh

The nearest international airport is Tirana International Airport, followed by Corfu International Airport, Greece.

Bus Stations Near Borsh

The main bus station is located in Split, Dubrovnik and Zagreb. From there, it’s an easy bus journey to Borsh (usually taking 2-3 hours depending on traffic).

Other Options

Renting a car is also a popular way of getting around Albania, and is a convenient option for travelling to smaller towns like Borsh.

How to Get Around in Borsh

Walking is the easiest way to get around Borsh, as most of the attractions and sites are located close to each other. Alternatively, taxis are readily available and are relatively cheap.

Where to Go Next from Borsh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Saranda: A popular coastal town, with some stunning beaches and a great array of restaurants and bars.
  • Butrint: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites found in Albania, Butrint was an ancient city that served as a gateway between the Greek world and the Mediterranean.
  • Gjirokastra: A historic town filled with Ottoman homes, fortress and an important museum.

Conclusion

Borsh is a must-visit destination on the Albanian Riviera, offering visitors plenty of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures to enjoy. This comprehensive travel guide should provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip, from choosing the best places to eat and stay and the top things to do, to the best times to visit and travel logistics. Don’t miss the chance to explore this beautiful part of Albania!