The Castle of Borsh: A Coastal Fortress with a View

Explore the historic Castle of Borsh in Albania: a medieval fortress with stunning Ionian Sea views and a glimpse into the past.

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The Castle of Borsh

The Castle of Borsh, perched on a hill overlooking the Ionian Sea, is a historic fortification dating back to the 4th century BC. Once known as Sopot Castle, it offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Albania's rich past, with remnants of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influence.

A brief summary to The Castle of Borsh

3V94+WC5, Borsh, AL
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as the path to the castle can be steep and uneven.
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Take your time exploring; the ruins offer plenty of nooks and crannies to discover.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Saranda, take a direct minibus or any bus heading towards Himara, Dhermi, or Vlora. Ask to be dropped off in Borsh. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes and costs between $18 and $20. From the main road in Borsh, the castle is about a 2-kilometer walk uphill. Alternatively, from the bus stop in Borsh, a local taxi to the castle costs approximately 200-300 Albanian Lek (1.50 to 2.50 USD).
Walking

If you are in Borsh village, the castle is located on a hill to the northwest of the village center. Follow the road leading uphill for approximately 20 minutes to reach the castle entrance. The path is steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
Taxi

From Saranda, a taxi to Borsh costs approximately €70. From the main road in Borsh, there is a narrow road leading to the hill. You'll need to walk the last part, which consists of a zigzagging cobblestone path, which takes about 5-10 minutes.

Discover more about The Castle of Borsh

The Castle of Borsh, also known as Kalaja e Borshit, is a ruined castle located near the village of Borsh, Albania. Situated on a rocky hill approximately 500 meters above sea level, the castle occupies a strategic position with views of the Albanian Riviera. Originally built by the Epirote tribe of the Chaonians in the 4th century BC, the castle has undergone several phases of construction and has been controlled by various powers throughout history. It was mentioned during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and later in the writings of Anna Komnene. In medieval times, it was referred to as Sopot Castle. The castle changed hands many times between the 13th and 15th centuries, passing between the Despotate of Epirus, the King of Naples, and Charles I of Anjou. In 1417, it fell into Ottoman hands. The Venetians briefly captured it in 1571, but it eventually returned to Ottoman control in 1790. During the Ottoman era, the Haxhi Bendo Mosque was added in the 18th century by Ali Pasha of Tepelena. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the castle, including the entrance gate, fortification walls, and the remains of the Haxhi Bendo Mosque. Although largely unrestored, the castle offers stunning views of Borsh and its beach, the Borsh River, and the surrounding mountains. The site is open year-round and is freely accessible.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Plazhi i Borshit

2.9 km

Discover Plazhi i Borshit, the longest beach on the Albanian Riviera, offering a tranquil escape with stunning views and crystal-clear waters.

Porto Palermo

6.6 km

Discover Porto Palermo Castle: a historic fortress with stunning views on the Albanian Riviera, built by Ali Pasha in the 19th century.

Buneci Beach

8.2 km

Discover Buneci Beach: A serene Albanian Riviera escape with crystal waters, pebble shores, and tranquil beauty, perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Taverna Velco

8.7 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine with warm hospitality and stunning sea views at Taverna Velco in Himarë, Albania.

Taverna PiroΣia

8.9 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning Adriatic views at Taverna PiroΣia in Himarë, Albania. Fresh ingredients, friendly service, and a memorable dining experience.

Sun Bakers Hostel Himara

8.9 km

Experience Himarë's beauty and hospitality at Sun Bakers Hostel: budget-friendly, social, and steps from the beach. Your Albanian adventure starts here!

Taverna Stolis

9.0 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning sea views at this charming Himarë taverna. Fresh seafood, traditional dishes, and warm hospitality await!

Portokalis

9.3 km

Experience authentic Albanian cuisine with fresh seafood and stunning sea views at Portokalis Restaurant in Himarë. A family-friendly culinary haven.

Rescue At The Beach

9.5 km

Experience vibrant nightlife & refreshing cocktails at Himarë's Rescue At The Beach, where fun meets the stunning Albanian coastline.

Namos Beach

9.5 km

Experience the beauty of the Albanian Riviera at Namos Beach in Himarë: pristine waters, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await!

ARXONTIKO Hotel and Restaurant

9.8 km

A modern 4-star hotel in Himarë, Albania, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to beaches and local attractions.

Himara Beach

9.8 km

Experience the heart of the Albanian Riviera at Himara Beach: sun, sea, and vibrant promenade life await!

Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara

9.8 km

Experience comfort and art in Himarë at this boutique hotel with stunning views, a central location, and warm hospitality.

Sfageio Beach

9.8 km

Discover Sfageio Beach in Himarë: a serene Albanian Riviera escape with crystal waters, golden sands, and breathtaking Ionian sunsets.

Coba Rooftop & Restaurant Himare

9.9 km

Experience Himarë's coastal beauty at Coba Rooftop & Restaurant, offering exquisite dining with panoramic Adriatic Sea views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Unmissable attractions to see

Borsh Beach

2.9 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Borsh Beach, an unspoiled paradise on the Albanian Riviera, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay

2.9 km

Discover Gjiri Amla, Qeparo: where turquoise waters meet soft sands in a serene Albanian Riviera paradise. Perfect for sun, sea, and tranquility.

Qeparo Beach

3.2 km

Explore the unspoiled beauty of Qeparo Beach, a serene destination on the Albanian Riviera offering stunning views and a peaceful retreat.

Porto Palermo Beach

4.7 km

Discover Porto Palermo Beach: Crystal waters, historic castle views, and serene Albanian Riviera escape.

Palermo Beach

5.4 km

Explore the stunning Palermo Beach in Himarë, Albania, where crystal-clear waters meet golden sands for the perfect seaside escape.

The Castle of Porto Palermo

5.6 km

Discover the historic Ali Pasha Tepelena Fortress in Porto Palermo, a captivating site with stunning views and rich cultural heritage along Albania's coastline.

Llamani Beach

7.7 km

Discover the serene beauty of Llamani Beach in Albania, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for the perfect Mediterranean getaway.

Himara view

8.7 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Albanian Riviera from Himara View, a scenic escape perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Filikuri Beach

9.0 km

Discover Filikuri Beach: A hidden paradise near Himarë with turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and a tranquil escape on the Albanian Riviera.

Potami beach

9.0 km

Discover the beauty of Potami Beach in Himarë, Albania, where soft sands meet turquoise waters and adventure awaits.

Filikuri Bay

9.1 km

Discover Filikuri Bay: A hidden Albanian Riviera paradise with crystal waters, dramatic cliffs, and serene seclusion near Himarë.

View from Himara

9.3 km

Experience panoramic views and rich history from this remarkable landmark on the Albanian Riviera. A must-see for nature and history lovers.

Prinos Beach

9.3 km

Discover Prinos Beach in Himarë: a serene Albanian Riviera escape with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and underwater exploration.

Small bunker

9.6 km

Explore Albania's communist past at the Small Bunker in Himarë, offering history and stunning coastal views.

Orzo Marine Beach

9.6 km

Experience the tranquil beauty of Orzo Marine Beach in Himarë, Albania, where sun, sand, and sea combine for an unforgettable getaway.

Essential places to dine

Taverna Dhrami

2.7 km

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Andonis Restaurant

3.1 km

Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Andonis Restaurant in Qeparo - where local ingredients meet traditional cooking.

Talasa Restaurant

3.2 km

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Veranda Restaurant

3.2 km

Experience exquisite Albanian cuisine with stunning views at Veranda Restaurant in Qeparo - a culinary gem worth discovering.

Restaurant Gostivari Ajan

3.8 km

Discover the flavors of Albania at Restaurant Gostivari Ajan in Sarandë – where culinary excellence meets breathtaking seaside views.

Bar Restaurant BUSHI

7.9 km

Discover authentic Albanian flavors at Bar Restaurant BUSHI in Piqeras – where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views.

ELÉA Restaurant

8.1 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning sea views at ELÉA Restaurant in Himarë, Albania - a true culinary delight.

Lui Potam

9.0 km

Discover the best seafood in Himarë at Lui Potam – where every dish tells a story of freshness and flavor against stunning coastal views.

SOREN

9.0 km

Experience culinary excellence at SOREN in Himarë, where fresh seafood meets traditional Italian flavors amid stunning coastal views.

Fane

9.0 km

Experience authentic Albanian seafood at Fane in Himarë - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking sea views.

Cibo Mare e Terra, Himarë

9.2 km

Experience authentic Italian flavors with breathtaking Adriatic views at Cibo Mare e Terra in Himarë.

Pastaria Himare

9.2 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Himarë at Pastaria Himare - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and hospitality.

Astro Brunch&Cocktail Bar

9.2 km

Experience unforgettable brunches and exquisite cocktails at Astro Brunch & Cocktail Bar in Himarë - where taste meets stunning views.

La Mer Restaurant

9.3 km

Experience authentic Albanian cuisine with breathtaking sea views at La Mer Restaurant in Himarë.

Acta Restaurant

9.8 km

Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Acta Restaurant in Himarë - where stunning views meet delightful culinary creations.

Explore Italia Shopping in Himare, Albania - your go-to destination for trendy beachwear and unique souvenirs along the stunning Adriatic coast.

Imeraj Market

10.1 km

Discover the vibrant flavors of Albania at Imeraj Market in Himarë, where local produce and culinary delights await every visitor.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Sunset Boulevard Cocktail Bar

3.0 km

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Bar Restaurant BITRI

6.6 km

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Fish & Go Summer

9.0 km

Experience the best of Albanian seafood at Fish & Go Summer, a charming fish restaurant on the stunning Himarë coast.

Rapo’s Restaurant Beach Bar

9.0 km

Experience the best of Albanian coastal dining at Rapo’s Restaurant Beach Bar with fresh seafood and stunning sea views.

VARKA - Beach Bar

9.1 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of VARKA Beach Bar in Himarë, where stunning views meet delicious cocktails and lively music.

Anemos Lounge Bar

9.2 km

Experience the perfect blend of stunning views and delectable cuisine at Anemos Lounge Bar on Potam Beach, Himarë, Albania.

Akacia beach bar

9.3 km

Discover the ultimate cocktail experience at Akacia Beach Bar in Himarë, Albania, where stunning sea views meet refreshing drinks.

Red Indian Rock Cafe Himare

9.4 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Red Indian Rock Cafe in Himare, where local charm meets stunning coastal views.

Privat Lounge

9.8 km

Discover the tranquil vibes of Privat Lounge in Himarë, where relaxation meets local culture amidst stunning coastal views.

Thèa Rooftop Bar

9.9 km

Experience breathtaking views, innovative cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere at Thèa Rooftop Bar in Himarë, Albania.

Acta Cocktail Bar

10.0 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Himarë at Acta Cocktail Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet stunning views of the beautiful Albanian coast.

UMI Sushi & Cocktail

10.0 km

Experience the best of sushi and cocktails at UMI Sushi & Cocktail in Himarë, where fine dining meets vibrant nightlife in a stunning coastal setting.

Taverna Vironas

10.0 km

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Taverna Vironas in Himarë, where flavor meets the beauty of Albania's stunning coastline.

Mojo Cocktails Bar

10.1 km

Discover the vibrant flavors of expertly crafted cocktails at Mojo Cocktails Bar, a must-visit hotspot in Himarë, Albania, for every traveler.

Locca Rooftop

10.4 km

Discover Locca Rooftop: A Blend of Scenic Views, Exquisite Cocktails, and Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine in Himarë.

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Tipsy Drinks and More, where stunning views and expertly crafted drinks create an unforgettable experience in Sarandë.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover The Castle of Borsh with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

The Castle of Borsh: A Coastal Fortress with a View

A brief summary to The Castle of Borsh

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi

Unlock the Best of The Castle of Borsh

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Castle of Borsh

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Plazhi i Borshit

Porto Palermo

Buneci Beach

Taverna Velco

Taverna PiroΣia

Sun Bakers Hostel Himara

Taverna Stolis

Portokalis

Rescue At The Beach

Namos Beach

ARXONTIKO Hotel and Restaurant

Himara Beach

Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara

Sfageio Beach

Coba Rooftop & Restaurant Himare

Unmissable attractions to see

Borsh Beach

Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay

Qeparo Beach

Porto Palermo Beach

Palermo Beach

The Castle of Porto Palermo

Llamani Beach

Himara view

Filikuri Beach

Potami beach

Filikuri Bay

View from Himara

Prinos Beach

Small bunker

Orzo Marine Beach

Essential places to dine

Taverna Dhrami

Andonis Restaurant

Talasa Restaurant

Veranda Restaurant

Restaurant Gostivari Ajan

Bar Restaurant BUSHI

ELÉA Restaurant

Lui Potam

SOREN

Fane

Cibo Mare e Terra, Himarë

Pastaria Himare

Astro Brunch&Cocktail Bar

La Mer Restaurant

Acta Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Market Stolis

Market Lui

MARKET MIRI HIMARE

IONI Market

San GIORGIO

Lapa Market & Dyqan Mishi

Big Market

NELI STYLE

Produkte Mishi (Meat Shop)

GRAND Fashion Himara

Himara Electronics

Aksesorë Mobile

IQOS HIMARE

Italia Shopping Himare Albania

Imeraj Market

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Sunset Boulevard Cocktail Bar

Bar Restaurant BITRI

Fish & Go Summer