Hotel Mira Mare is a hotel in Ksamil, the Albanian Riviera village that looks across a bay toward a scatter of small islands. The name suggests a sea-facing, holiday-minded stay, and Ksamil is the right place for one: shallow turquoise water, sandy and pebbly coves, simple seafood restaurants and a long evening light. It works well for travellers who would rather wake up near the sea than in the busier streets of Saranda, and who plan to spend more time in swimwear than in a museum. Butrint, the Blue Eye and the Greek island of Corfu are all within reach for day trips. Because room styles, views and facilities differ, check the current details when you book, and ask about the distance to the nearest beach.
Staying here
Expect a small to mid-sized hotel with a front desk, a breakfast service and comfortable but practical rooms. A balcony or terrace is a real asset in Ksamil, where evenings are best spent outside, so ask whether your room has one and what it faces. Air conditioning, hot water and Wi-Fi are things to confirm rather than assume, especially outside the main season. If you arrive late, let the hotel know in advance, since reception hours can vary and some lanes are narrow and poorly lit.
Location
Ksamil lies about eighteen kilometres south of Saranda, and the drive takes roughly twenty to thirty minutes depending on traffic. The village stretches around several bays, with the best-known beaches facing the islands, and a lagoon behind it where mussels are farmed. Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with Greek, Roman and Venetian layers, is a few minutes down the road, and the park is most pleasant in the morning or late afternoon. Kayaks, pedalos and small boats are available in season for trips to the nearest islets.
Trade-offs
In July and August the beaches are crowded and beach clubs charge for sun beds, so prices and noise both rise. Outside the summer months many cafes and some hotels reduce hours or close, and the water is cool for swimming. If you want a wide range of restaurants and a lively evening promenade, Saranda town has more variety; for a quieter, sea-focused stay, Ksamil is better. Families and couples often favour it for the shallow water and the relaxed tempo.
Planning tips
Aim for late May, June or September for warm water and manageable crowds. Reserve ahead for peak weeks, and compare rooms with and without a sea view, since the price difference can be modest. Pack water shoes, a sun hat and a light layer for evenings. Ask the hotel about transfers from the Corfu ferry, local taxi prices and boat trips, and check the details of your room category when you book.
Why stay here
- ✓Ksamil seaside location
- ✓Near beaches and islands
- ✓Short drive to Butrint
- ✓Breakfast service
- ✓Balcony or terrace rooms (check when you book)
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms (check when you book)
- ✓Helpful reception
- ✓Wi-Fi (check when you book)
Good questions
Where is Hotel Mira Mare?+
In Ksamil, on the Albanian Riviera south of Saranda.
How far is it from Saranda?+
Roughly eighteen kilometres, about twenty to thirty minutes by car or taxi.
Is it good for a beach holiday?+
Yes. Ksamil is one of the best-known beach villages in Albania, but check the distance to the sand when you book.
