Arameras Beach Resort

Christina Trotter10 months ago

3/5

You might find yourself confused by the contradiction of photos, reviews, and location of Arameras, and perhaps, find yourself at a crossroads. I found myself at the same crossroads, and feel bound to help fellow travelers solve this quandary - to book, or not book? To make this decision you must think about your overall agenda in Albania, and whether or not it should include Ksamil/ the southern portion of Albania altogether - it most certainly should. We began our tour of Albania in Tirana, which I would definitely skip if I could and replace with a night or two in the mountains, either in Berat on your way from the airport, or in Gjirokaster, a simply magical place. The history, culture and natural beauty are unrivaled in this part of Albania, and Ksamil is an excellent base to explore. We spent half of our beach time in Livadi, near Himare, which was excellent, and concluded it at Arameras. In order to enjoy Arameras, one must manage one's expectations. After 5 days there, we concluded it is the best option in the area. Your alternative is to stay in the clamoring, overly packed Ksamil vs what is a beautiful location in terms of placement on the coast, quiet, views of Corfu, sunrise, and sunset. The Bad -Breakfast/ Restaurant by the beach, requiring a drive - Why? Why set up a hotel in this way, when you could have easily served breakfast by the pool. Only Arameras knows. - Service - Expect very little on the beach, and at the restaurant, expect to hustle for it, but there are some great individuals in the staff who, if you find them, will look after you -The rooms - They look great on the outside, but it's clear they were constructed hastily, and there is definitely a damp/ mildew situation in the bathroom. However, the beds were comfortable, and we had a wonderful view of the sea from our room ( request this). Overall they were fine for laying ones bones down at the end of the day. The beds were quite comfortable. -Generally, it's hard to imagine how with this property they decided to set things up as they did -The lounge chair situation - We had a mixed bag here, one day easy to get beachfront, very helpful woman with a clipboard, next day felt like you had to be part of an Albanian pool chair ring to have any chance at the first row. Overall, it was fine. -Beach towels - only at reception which is a 5 minute drive from the beach - Why? Why not have them at the beach for guests...nonsensical The Good -It is as stunning a location as it looks like in the pictures, the beach has amazing snorkeling, the water is clear, the pool has insanely beautiful and sweeping views of the southern area, it is extremely convenient to explore Butrint, Gjirokaster (although you could definitely spend a night there), and to have an amazing boat trip around this area -It is quiet and peaceful at night -The pool is large and well located -Alternatives - the alternatives are incredibly poor as far as we could see in town. Incredibly cramped and cluttered, we were very happy with our choice when we assessed the other options -Food - I would not deem this as good, but rather fine. The fish was good enough to enjoy for lunch if you're spending a day there. The breakfast was very average, but does its job Overall, I have to conclude you should stay at Arameras, go in expecting little and you will be pleasantly surprised.