Saranda: Monastery of Saint Maria of Kostar Tour

Traveling around Albania, especially in the southern regions near Saranda, often unveils surprises. One such hidden gem is the Monastery of Saint Maria of Kostar. This guided tour offers a chance to explore a site that’s steeped in history, built into a cave on Mount Kostar, with views that will leave you feeling inspired. While it’s a relatively short experience—about three hours—it packs a lot into a small package, making it perfect for travelers looking to combine history, scenic vistas, and a touch of the spiritual.

What really draws us in about this tour are two things: first, the unique setting of the church inside a cave, which is both eerie and awe-inspiring, and second, the stunning views of the surrounding landscape, which are sure to be one of the highlights of your day. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a bit of walking and a scenic drive, so comfortable shoes and a spirit of adventure are recommended. This experience is particularly suited for those interested in history and scenery—perfect for curious travelers who want a meaningful, yet manageable outing.

Key Points

• Unique Location: Built inside a cave on Mount Kostar, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Historical Significance: Dating back to the 13th century with several phases of construction, reflecting centuries of history.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic landscapes and scenic vistas of the Albanian countryside.
• Guided Insight: Learn about the monastery’s history and cultural importance from a knowledgeable guide.
• Comfortable Transport: Includes air-conditioned transportation for a relaxed day.
• Short & Sweet: Around 3 hours total—great for fitting into a busy itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

When you sign up for this guided trip, you’ll start at “Tea Tours & Car Rental” in Saranda, where you’ll meet your guide and hop into a comfortable van. The drive takes about 30 minutes, winding through the scenic roads of Vlorë County. Along the way, you might want to prepare your camera for some nice snapshots of the Albanian landscape, which is especially photogenic from the vantage points along the route.

Once you arrive at the site, you’ll have about two hours to explore the Monastery of Saint Maria of Kostar and its surroundings. The primary highlight is the Church of St. Mary of Kostar, built inside a cave, which is a remarkable sight. The church’s construction dates back to 1332, with later additions from 1690-1770, adding layers of history to the structure. The guide will tell you stories about the site’s significance, especially how the monastery is dedicated to St. Mary and its role as a pilgrimage site, especially on August 15.

During your visit, you’ll learn how the northwestern part of the monastery was built first, and how the rest was unified over the centuries. A key aspect of this site is its religious importance, which continues to this day, especially during the annual celebration, making it a regional pilgrimage destination.

After your explorations, you’ll have some time for photographs and soaking in the views before getting back into the van for the return trip. The entire day wraps up with a 30-minute drive back to Saranda, giving you a chance to reflect on the experience.

The Experience in Detail

The Journey There

The tour begins at “Tea Tours & Car Rental,” a convenient starting point in Saranda. From there, the drive is smooth, with comfortable air-conditioned transport making the journey pleasant even on warm days. The 30-minute ride feels quick, thanks to the scenic views and the anticipation of reaching a historical site that’s quite unlike others in the region.

Arriving at the Monastery of Saint Maria of Kostar

Arriving at the site, you’re immediately struck by its spectacular setting. The monastery is perched on Mount Kostar, and the church is carved into a cave high up on the eastern side of the ancient city of Finiq. The location offers some breathtaking views of the landscape—rolling hills, distant mountains, and the lush greenery of the Albanian countryside.

The church itself is surprisingly intact, with stone walls and a simple but charming interior. It’s a tangible reminder of the region’s historical importance, dating back almost 700 years. The fact that it’s built inside a cave adds a mystique that photos just can’t fully capture. As you walk around, your guide will share stories about the construction phases, the dedication to St. Mary, and how the site functioned as a sanctuary.

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Learning the History

One of the best parts of this tour is the insight provided by the guide. You’ll learn how the northwestern part was built first in 1332, and how the rest of the monastery was connected and unified during 1690-1770. It’s fascinating to think about the effort involved in constructing such a complex within the natural environment.

The monastery’s importance is still visible today during August 15, when local pilgrims and visitors gather to celebrate St. Mary. This ongoing tradition adds to the sense of continuity and faith that makes the site special.

Views and Photo Opportunities

While the historical and spiritual aspects are compelling, the views are what many people rave about. From the monastery, you can take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, a perfect backdrop for photos. Many visitors mention how serene and peaceful the scenery is, especially if you visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is softer.

Practical Considerations

The tour is suitable for most able-bodied visitors, but note that strollers and baby carriages are not allowed, likely because of uneven paths or restrictions at the site. The walking involved isn’t very strenuous but does require some steps and direction over uneven terrain. Be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and snacks—there are no facilities at the site itself.

You’re encouraged to take your camera, as the views and the architecture are picture-worthy. Water is available, but it’s good to carry your own, especially if it’s hot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour works best for those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes. If you enjoy learning about cultural sites that combine natural beauty with historical significance, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s not overly long or physically demanding, so even casual travelers can enjoy it without feeling rushed or exhausted.

It’s also well-suited for those traveling in a small group or anyone wanting a peaceful, reflective outing that isn’t overly commercialized. If you’re into photography, the views and the atmospheric church inside the cave will be a bonus.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the tour includes transportation, a guided explanation, and the site visit—all within a three-hour window. Considering the scenic drive, expert guide, and unique location, most travelers will find this a good value for the price. It’s a compact, meaningful way to add a historical and scenic highlight to your trip without a full-day commitment.

The Sum Up

The Monastery of Saint Maria of Kostar tour from Saranda offers a blend of history, spirituality, and stunning scenery, making it a memorable part of any Albanian itinerary. It’s an experience that will appeal to those curious about regional history and architecture, as well as anyone who appreciates breathtaking views. The guided approach ensures you get context and stories that bring the site alive, and the short duration makes it a manageable addition to your day.

If you’re after a quiet, contemplative experience with a dash of adventure—climbing up to a cave church with panoramic vistas—this tour should be on your list. It’s not perfect for everyone (no strollers or baby carriages allowed, and a bit of walking involved), but for most, it’s a rewarding peek into Albania’s past.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned van is part of the tour, starting and ending at “Tea Tours & Car Rental.”

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including the drive, visit, and return.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views. Water is also recommended.

Can I take children?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or for people over 95 years due to the walking involved and site restrictions.

Are there any restrictions at the site?
Yes, baby strollers, baby carriages, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed at the monastery.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The scenery and architecture provide excellent photo opportunities.

What’s the best time to visit?
While the tour runs at various times, try to visit when the lighting is softer—early morning or late afternoon—for the best photos and a more peaceful experience.

How do I cancel if I change my mind?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans shift.

If you’re looking for a meaningful mix of history, natural beauty, and a touch of spirituality in southern Albania, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a compact, authentic experience that will leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a few great photos of that cave church perched high above the landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: