How Infrastructure Projects Are Changing the South Albanian Coast

If you’ve driven down the southern coast of Albania recently—from Saranda to Borsh or even farther toward Himara—you’ve probably noticed something: the roads are smoother, the traffic signs are newer, and those long detours that used to frustrate all of us? They’re starting to disappear. 

I’ve lived in Saranda for over a decade now, and I can tell you—this kind of progress doesn’t happen overnight. But lately, it is happening. And it’s changing everything, especially in real estate. 

Let me explain what I mean. 

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The Road to Ksamil (Literally) Got Better 

Back in the day—okay, just a few years ago—it took a good chunk of patience to get from Saranda to Ksamil, especially during peak tourist season. Potholes. Slow-moving traffic. And don’t even get me started on parking. 

But now? The new roadworks between Saranda and Ksamil have made this short drive feel like a proper coastal getaway, not an endurance test. This upgrade alone has made seaview apartments and beachfront property in Ksamil way more accessible—for buyers and tourists alike. 

Just last week, I showed a client a stunning penthouse in Ksamil with a private terrace and pool, and as we stood there watching the sunset, they turned to me and said, “Why isn’t everyone moving here?” I smiled. That moment reminded me why I love this job so much. 

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Little Things Locals Notice 

Sometimes it’s not the massive construction projects that change a place. It’s the little upgrades that only locals notice. Like the new lighting installed along Saranda’s promenade. Or the wider sidewalks near the old market where the fruit sellers still shout out their prices with a smile. 

And near Borsh Beach, there’s this tiny taverna—no sign, plastic chairs, smells like grilled lamb and saltwater. It’s always been there, but now with the newly paved access road, it’s no longer a secret. I often stop there after property viewings just to grab a coffee and breathe for a moment. 

These changes matter. Because when infrastructure improves, so does quality of life. And when life gets better, so does the value of affordable properties in places like Saranda, Ksamil, and even Lukovë. 

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Tangent: A Quick Note on Raki and Real Estate 

I know, I’m going off-track here, but hear me out. 

There’s something beautifully Albanian about discussing big life decisions—like buying property—over a glass of homemade raki. I’ve had more serious real estate conversations in someone’s backyard than in any office. You don’t really understand the local market until you’ve sipped raki with a seller who tells you stories about the land his grandfather farmed before it became a hotspot for Saranda apartments for sale . 

Anyway, back to infrastructure. 

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EU Funding, Private Investments, and Big Promises 

A lot of what we’re seeing right now—road reconstruction, port modernization, new utility networks—is backed by a mix of EU funding and private investors. There’s talk of expanding the port of Saranda to better accommodate cruise ships, and that alone could be a game-changer for tourism and property demand. 

You might’ve also heard rumors about a future airport in the south. Some say it’ll be in Himara. Others mention Vlorë or even the outskirts of Saranda. Either way, the idea of easier international access is already creating buzz in the market. 

People who might’ve overlooked Albania a few years ago are now actively hunting for beachfront property before prices rise too high. 

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