Dhërmi village is one of Albania’s most attractive coastal destinations. While the beaches attract many visitors, the true magic lies in the village’s streets, traditions, and local life. Here’s how to experience Dhërmi like a local and make the most of your visit.
Explore the Stone Streets
Walk through the narrow streets of this hidden gem in the south of Albania, Dhërmi, lined with stone houses and traditional courtyards. The village feels alive, with old stone houses and courtyards full of plants and flowers, especially the purple ones. Almost every street and gate is framed by an arch, giving the village a unique look. You’ll see carved doors, simple shutters, and climbing plants on the walls. Every corner has something to discover, giving you a real taste of local life.
Visit the Church of St. Mary
From Zoe Hora, you can follow the Church Trail, a short and scenic path that takes you straight to the church of St. Mary. This small church feels peaceful and calm. Inside, you’ll see old icons and simple decorations that tell stories from the past. Step outside, and you’ll get a view over the whole village. It’s a quiet place to pause, take photos, or just enjoy the view.
Visit the White Chapel of St. Spiridon
A short walk from the Church of St. Mary brings you to the small white Chapel of St. Spiridon. The chapel is simple but charming, with clean white walls that stand out against the stone streets and greenery around it. It’s a quiet sport to take a break, enjoy the calm, or snap a few photographs. Even though it’s small, it provides a real sense of Dhërmi’s history and local life.
Meet Local Artisans
One of the best ways to experience Dhërmi is by meeting its people. Near Zoe Hora you’ll find locals selling homemade crafts or other products from the village. Stop and talk to them; you’ll hear stories about the village, its traditions, and daily life. Buying a product here is not just shopping but a way to connect with Dhërmi and take home a piece of its culture.
Walk the Old Mills Trail
The Old Mills Trail is a scenic path that takes you from the top of the village down to the breathtaking beaches. We suggest starting at the top and heading down. The walk takes about 30 minutes, so wear comfortable shoes. Along the way, you’ll pass tall trees, enjoy peaceful countryside views, and even see a small but still breathtaking waterfall. This route lets you explore parts of Dhërmi that many tourists miss, combining history, nature, and a guided path with maps all the way to the coastline.
Final Thoughts
Dhërmi is the kind of place that reveals itself slowly. Beyond the beaches, it’s the quiet village, the numerous chapels, and the walk through nature and stone alleys that you really begin to feel its presence. Take time to wander around without a plan and consider the Dhërmi guide, stop when something catches your eye, and enjoy the simple moments passing by. If you do, Dhërmi will not simply feel like another destination you visited, but rather a place you will hold dear for the days ahead.