1. Cave of Haxhi Ali
The Cave of Haxhi Ali is a karst cave formed in limestone cliffs, located in the Karaburun Peninsula near the Cape of Gjuhëz. The cave has a length of 30 m with a width which can vary between of 10–12 m and a height of 15 m.
The cave was named after Haxhi Aliu, a prominent Albanian warrior and sailor from Ulcinj who fled with his son in this cave. Several archaeological objects has been found, that prove that this cave was used by traders and passers during the ancient times. The cave has also geologic values because all around it there are stalactites formations which are created over years.
Besides its strategic location on the Karaburun Peninsula within the Albanian Riviera, this cave is considered as one of the country's most beautiful caves and attracts numerous visitors. Notably it has been recognized as a “Natural Monument” of national importance by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and is part of the MPA K-S.
2. Bay of Grama
The Bay of Grama is situated along the Albanian Ionian Sea Coast on the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of many bays of the western Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Riviera, south of the Karaburun Peninsula.
The bay is home to precious archaeological, historical and cultural values, as it served as an important harbor and shelter for the boats sailing along the coast during classical antiquity. On the vertical cliffs and rocks, there are more than 1500 carved ancient inscriptions; the name of the bay is closely associated with engraved inscriptions. Due to this fact, Bay of Grama is considered as the richest “rocky diary” in the Mediterranean.
Representing a rocky bay, the shore is dominated by coastal cliffs, sloping vertically into the sea, and rocky, pebbled beaches. It stretches within the MPA K-S and was designated as a “Natural Monument” because of its outstanding landscape.
The precious landscapes of the bay are of global importance, because they contribute to the country's ecological balance and provide habitat for numerous globally threatened and endangered species. The marine caves are an exceptional ecosystem and give important refuge to the Mediterranean Monk Seal, the rarest seal species in the world.
3.Bay of Bristani
The Bay of Bristani is one of the top wonders of the Albanian coast. Like many other secret beaches in Karaburun Peninsula, Bristani is the perfect place for those, who are looking for an intimate swim. This must-visit site can be reached either by foot or sea. It takes a seven-hour walk from Llogara to Bristani Bay. The beach is safe for camping, yet it is not recommended when the wind is strong. Campers must take food, water, and other supplies because the area is isolated.
The Bay of Bristani hosts an abandoned military building, a small jetty and several bunkers in its steep cliffs which are cut by canyons entering deeply into the coast. In the past, it was used as a safe place for ships during storms. Nearby there is a crashed commercial ships.
4. Sazani Island
The largest island off the coast of Albania located in a strategic, ecological and social very important crossroads position between the Eastern and the Western parts of the Mediterranean region.
It is a unique site with exceptional biodiversity values at national level.
Sazani Island was first mentioned by Polybius in a military episode taking place in 215 BC. The past of the island constitutes an important historical, cultural and military heritage. In view of its position between the Adriatic and the Ionian Sea, the island has always been a strategic military defense point. There are present settlements of military basis of different countries in the 20th century (Greek, Italian, German, and Albanian).
Presence of two churches, archaeological remains, ancient buildings, shipwrecks, past land uses, etc. constitute additional valuable assets.
Can be accessed by sea, with boats that depart from Vlora Port.
5. Diving Trails
For all diving enthusiasts, MPA K-S offers underwater trails to enjoy the unique world and underwater assets of the area.
The main habitats that are quite attractive for SCUBA diving activity are:
- Posidonia meadows
- Underwater caves
- Coralligenous "sidewalk" formations
The latter reach up to 1 meter large, and because of their diversity, they are considered one of the most attractive marine underwater landscapes for diving.