While traveling through Albania, we stopped at Velipoje to visit one of the region’s renowned windsurfing spots. However, we were disappointed with the access, which leads directly through the main beach area surrounded by large hotels and apartments. Nevertheless, we discovered the ideal vacation spot – Ada Vila campsite. You can find its official website here: https://kampingadavilu.com/
The campsite is located at the end of Velipoje, accessed via an unpaved road through a dense pine forest. It is neat, clean, and the sanitary facilities are new and very comfortable. There are also outdoor showers and a place for washing dishes. The campsite is next to a famous restaurant that mainly offers fish specialties. There are about thirty pitches organized in the shape of an atrium on a square piece of land, right next to the sea. However, “sea” should be understood roughly, as it is a closed shallow bay with a sandy bottom, which gives the impression that it is a muddy lake rather than a sea. The camp is covered with grass; each plot has an electricity connection and a water pipe.
When we were there (mid-May), no one else was present, ensuring two days of complete silence. However, approaching the main summer season may change this situation. Additionally, a summer dance hall next to the camp (100 meters away) could disrupt the evening peace.
The owners have really tried to make the camp atmosphere romantic. In the evening, discreet lights are turned on over the wooden bridge and the pier, and if you are lucky enough to have a full moon in the sky, you can really enjoy your stay at the camp.
Ada Vilu Camp Score
Location: Excellent. Far from the main Velipoje beach. Our score is 10.
Environment: Natural. On the shore of a small bay. The nearness of the summer dance hall can be disturbing during high season. Score: 8
Accessibility: The camp is easy to find; the connecting road is not asphalted, but it is wide enough for the biggest campers and caravans. Our score is 10.
Functionality: Perfect in every way, including good Wi-Fi. Our score is 10.
Comfort: The toilet and shower building is small but newly renovated. Only three showers inside, four more outside. Our score is 9.
Hospitality: Cordial, easy-going. The owner does not speak English, so communication has to go through the restaurant staff. But they are very hospitable too. Score: 10
Added values: 5 + 5 + 7 = 6
Our scores for sports activities: 5; cultural activities: 5; gastronomy: 7. Average: 6
As mentioned, we came for windsurfing, but that didn’t happen, and it is impossible from the camp. Maybe, in strong northern winds, some speed can be made in shallow waters. However, the bay is ideal for SUP sessions. Other than that, there is not much to be done in Velipoje. We did not find any attractive cycling route nearby, except riding around through the touristically overdeveloped village. Velipoje, unfortunately, is not very friendly to sports.
Gastronomy is oriented towards sea products (fish, seafood), and the rest is fast food. Our first impression about Albanian gastronomy from Shkodër is somewhat ruined, but if you like fish, you will be of a different opinion, for sure.
Will we return?
Unfortunately, no. Velipoje is not on the way to the southern parts of Albania, so you have to pick it as a destination. Since it does not accommodate the active lifestyle we cherish, it is unlikely that we will return. However, we really enjoyed the peaceful days we spent in Ava Villu Camp, and if you are less sports-demanding than us, we cordially recommend this camp for your stay in Velipoje.
About the Author: Emina
