Did you know that Albania has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe? Stretching down the southern coastline on the Ionian Sea, the Albanian Riviera is an adventurers dream where high mountains drastically drop to glistening turquoise pebble beaches. This is the route I took on my Hot Mermaid Summer Solo Backpacking trip in 2022. A hidden gym, Albania offers affordable options for solo travelers and is the perfect place to go before the rest of the world discovers its beauty! I found Albanian culture to be fascinating due to its complex history including isolation and dictatorships. There is a lot to learn about this rather less traveled country. Albania should definitely not be over looked when planning your European summer vacation.