Grama Bay
Grama Bay – A Hidden Sanctuary on the Albanian Riviera
Tucked away in the untouched southern edge of the Karaburun Peninsula, Grama Bay (or Gjiri i Gramës in Albanian) is a pristine coastal gem that feels like a journey back in time—far removed from the crowded, overdeveloped tourist spots of the Albanian Riviera. Here, nature takes center stage, and tranquility reigns.
Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a pebble-strewn beach, Grama Bay is one of the few places along the Ionian coast that has remained virtually untouched. The bay is accessible only by boat or by hiking through rugged terrain, making it a haven for explorers, adventurers, and nature lovers seeking something off the beaten path.
A Place Steeped in History and Natural Beauty
Grama Bay is not only beautiful—it’s historic. The cliffs surrounding the bay are etched with ancient inscriptions and carvings from Greek and Roman times, made by sailors who once sought refuge in its calm waters. These centuries-old messages carved into the stone tell stories of navigation, shelter, and survival, giving the area a unique aura of mystique and cultural depth.
The water here is a striking shade of turquoise, turning deep blue as you swim further from the shore. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and simply floating in peaceful isolation. There are no hotels, no beach bars, and no crowds—just you, the sea, and the echo of nature.
Pure, Untamed, and Protected
The Karaburun Peninsula, which encompasses Grama Bay, is part of a protected National Marine Park. With no paved roads and limited infrastructure, it remains one of the last truly wild stretches of the Albanian coastline. You won’t find cars here—reaching the bay requires effort, either by hiking or, most conveniently, by boat.
And that’s exactly what makes it so special.
While the southern Riviera has seen a surge of construction—endless umbrellas, concrete hotels, and bustling beaches—Grama Bay has resisted the wave of mass tourism. It stands as a symbol of what Albania once was: raw, majestic, and unspoiled.
How to Reach Grama Bay
Due to its remoteness, the best (and most popular) way to reach Grama Bay is by boat tour from Vlorë, often as part of a day-long excursion that includes stops at nearby treasures like Dafina Bay, Haxhi Ali Cave, and Bristan Bay. The journey itself is an experience—cutting through sparkling waters, cruising past rugged cliffs, and arriving at a bay that feels like a secret kept just for you.
