Albania, Bradt Travel Guide (7th ed. June 22)

This new, fully revised seventh edition of Bradt's Albania remains the most authoritative standalone guide to what is still a relatively little known part of Europe. Coverage is comprehensive, starting in the capital, Tirana, then moving through central, northern and southern Albania to provide all the information needed for a successful trip. Included are knowledgeable and rigorously researched historical and archaeological background, detailed notes on popular and less well-known hiking routes and other outdoor activities, and specialist contributions on wildlife, military history and other topics. An unparalleled wealth of practical advice for the independent traveller is also offered. Albania has something to offer almost everyone. Many come for the spectacular, unspoilt mountain scenery and the hiking and cycling opportunities. Others are interested in the country's heritage, such as the Ottoman cities of Gjirokastra and Berati (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), the many outstanding archaeological sites, and the Byzantine religious art in the medieval churches and in museums in Tirana, Korca and Berati. Beaches such as Dhermiu and Jala in the south are popular with young backpackers, while in high season the resorts are full of Albanian-speaking Kosovars and Macedonians. Ornithologists have long been attracted to Albania, even during the Communist period when the country was all but closed to most foreign visitors, thanks to its many different habitats and the fact it lies on several migration routes. For city slickers, lively Tirana offers shopping malls, cycle paths, museums, art galleries and historic buildings, yet in the countryside, especially in the mountains, villagers still live much as their grandparents did, tending their goats and sheep, spinning wool and making their own cheese and yogurt. Many villagers have opened up their homes as guest houses, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience local culture first-hand.