SH8 Llogara Pass
Albania, europe
35 km
1,027 m
difficult
May to October
The Llogara Pass sits at 1,027 meters on the SH8 road in southern Albania, connecting the town of Vlora with the Albanian Riviera along the Ionian coast. The pass cuts through the Llogara National Park in the Ceraunian Mountains, a dense forest of black pines and Mediterranean vegetation, before descending in a series of dramatic hairpin bends to the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
The descent from the pass to the coast is one of the most spectacular drives in the Balkans. The road drops steeply through more than 20 hairpin bends, with views over Dhermi Beach, Drymades, and the island of Corfu in the distance. The Albanian Riviera beyond the pass features pristine beaches and small coastal villages that remained largely cut off from the outside world until the road was improved in the early 2000s. Albania's roads have improved dramatically in recent years, and the SH8 is now well paved, though the hairpins are tight and the drop-offs are significant. The combination of mountain forest, coastal drama, and unspoiled villages makes this one of Europe's hidden driving gems.
Where is it?
SH8 Llogara Pass is located in Albanian Riviera, Albania (europe). Coordinates: 40.2000, 19.5833
Driving Tips
Drive south from Vlora for the best coastal views on the descent. The road is well paved but watch for slower vehicles on the hairpins. Stop at the Llogara National Park restaurant at the summit for views and grilled lamb.
Road Surface
Paved asphalt
Road Details
- Country
- Albania
- Continent
- europe
- Region
- Albanian Riviera
- Length
- 35 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,027 m
- Difficulty
- difficult
- Surface
- Paved asphalt
- Best Season
- May to October
- Coordinates
- 40.2000, 19.5833
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