Perla Resort

The experience here depends heavily on who you rent from, since the area contains many privately rented apartments. Our original rental was mixed up, but the future host arranged a replacement. It cost less, although it sat on the edge of the complex beside the connecting road. That brought a pleasant mountain view, but also some stray-dog territory disputes. The road wasn't especially loud. The complex is thoughtfully laid out. The supermarket carries what you need and is reasonably priced if you're coming from an expensive country. At the pool restaurant, the chicken souvlaki was delicious and the pizzas were good, with dishes generally costing 500-1000lek. The large pool is suitable for laps before it gets busy. It's open from 9am-6pm, and entry costs 800 lek per adult and anyone aged 12 or over, including a sunbed and shade. Pine trees provide plenty of shade, and the basketball and tennis courts can be reserved. Guests only need to ask for them to be opened, usually at a reception if they can find one. Prices are listed as 500-1000lek, but we weren't charged. The beach is a short, shaded walk away. Sunbeds and an umbrella cost 1000 lek, and weekends are busy because it's popular with people from Tirana. Beach restaurants mostly share the same menu of risotto, pasta, pizza, fish, and seafood. Elements Restaurant to the right of the resort was the best we tried, while under the sea was the worst. A small breakfast buffet is available at the café beside OK market for 800lek. Espresso costs 100-200lek and was good everywhere. In the end, your mileage may vary, but the area itself was wonderful, especially given the low rental and dining prices compared with Greece and other EU countries.