Albania's finest archaelogical site (Butrint (Albania))

Member Name: dangaroo

Product:	Butrint (Albania)
Date:	22/04/09 (29 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Wonderful location, interesting info

Disadvantages: None

Nestled in the South Western corner of Albania, in what is perhaps Albania's most accessible region, Butrint is found 20km south of the sea side resort town Sarande. Corfu is nearby and day-trips are the common way of getting to Sarande and Butrint, I however was on a journey around Albania and had hitchhiked down there from Sarande.

Taxis on that route probably wouldn't be too dear though, particularly if shared.

Butrint is the end of the road really, just above the Greek border it is surrounded with wonderful hills and a large lagoon. Cattle and sheep gently graze in the nearby fields and a man waits at the entrance to this magnificent park waiting to collect a membership fee and flog you a guide. 750 lek is the entrance price, so about 5 euros. It's probably one of the few entrance fee prices you'll be paying in Albania, so it's well worth it.

Butrint is on an islet and is surrounded by lagoon except for the entrance, the ruins vary in condition depending on the section, a lot of money has gone into developing the site and information is widely available in English. Starting off as an Ancient Greek settlement, the Romans later took it over and there are remains of both civilisations - with churches, theatres and a whole Roman town, there's plenty to see. The park is in wonderful surroundings and doesn't get too busy, in the summer, the sun beats down and the birds whistle and there's plenty of space and shade (for those who get burnt like me) to discover all the nooks and crannies or enjoy afternoon lunch, I definitely recommend bringing some food with you.

This is not just educational but also extremely relaxing, walking in the nearby laguna area is very gentle and enjoyable and the whole place is free of the touts and irritants you will likely find at similar archaelogical parks in Turkey.

Summary: A fine sight