Stitch&Stone Suites

Eleana was wonderful to deal with, quick to respond and even helped us sort out a parking ticket. The room had lovely design and a fantastic city view, easily our favorite of the trip, though the bathroom felt strangely cold. We also liked having breakfast at the nearby Furra, the food was good. The place is right in the old town, close to sights and restaurants. Finding it on arrival was confusing and there’s no front desk, but we’d still happily come back.

Breakfast at the cafe downstairs was included and really tasty, and the location made it easy to walk to the bazaar, museums, historic houses, and the castle. The suites were gorgeous, with thoughtful design throughout, which makes sense given the proprietor is an architect. The beds were incredibly comfortable, and the rooms had nice toiletries, bottled water, and an espresso maker. Such good value, and I’d recommend it in a heartbeat.

The rooms were spotless, quiet, and comfortable, with smart decor that really fits a five-star boutique hotel. This was one of our best stays in Albania, and the only place there that didn’t use artificial room deodorants, which can irritate me. The owner is clearly passionate and caring, and always replied on Booking when we had an issue. Breakfast, though, was a disaster. Smoke from the cafe staff who smoke constantly, plus open windows when it was 15 degrees outside and no heating, made us feel ill. We went elsewhere to eat. With a beautiful rooftop in the same building, perhaps breakfast could be served there, or guests could get a voucher for a nearby cafe, or breakfast could simply not be offered. Parking can also be a nightmare, so work out where to leave the car before arriving. The streets are hard to navigate, and Google Maps shows routes that don’t actually exist.

Private parking for guests was especially helpful in the narrow streets of the old town. Stitch&Stone is also just a few steps from the old bazaar and within walking distance of most historical sights. We booked three rooms for our mixed group, a family of three, a couple, and a solo traveler. Each was spacious, spotless, and carefully put together. We stayed only one night, which was our one regret. I really hope we can return.