From Ksamil to Borsh: How the Coastline Shapes Property Values and Lifestyles

There’s something magical about driving along the coast from Ksamil to Borsh. The landscape shifts subtly, but you feel it. The vibe changes. The sea never leaves your side, but the rhythm of life pulses differently from village to village. And if you’ve ever wondered how this coastline shapes property values—and lifestyles—well, let me take you on a little journey. One that I live every day.

I’ve been based in Saranda for years now. Long enough to watch entire neighborhoods transform, and to know which roads flood during heavy rain (true locals always check the drainage). Long enough to remember when Ksamil only had a few scattered cafés and you could stroll the beach without hearing a single word of English.

But let’s start there—Ksamil.

Ksamil: Postcard Views and Premium Price Tags

Ksamil is the crown jewel of the Albanian Riviera these days. Everyone wants a piece of it. The turquoise water, the tiny islands you can swim or paddle to, and the buzz that comes with being the place to be in summer. There’s no denying it—property here has skyrocketed in value.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil—modern, bright, with a view that honestly didn’t look real. She stepped onto the balcony, gasped, and said, “I feel like I’m in Greece… but somehow better.” That moment reminded me why I love this job. Helping people see the potential in places we sometimes take for granted.

If you’re looking for beachfront property or seaview apartments, Ksamil is where people usually start. But don’t expect bargains here—Ksamil’s popularity means prices can rival those in Corfu, just across the water. Still, if you’re investing for rental income or resale value, it’s a smart play.

I often recommend people check out this White Residence complex—it’s one of our favorites. Modern construction, just steps from the beach, and located in a quieter part of Saranda that still has quick access to Ksamil. Not exactly in Ksamil, but close enough to catch the same breeze.

Saranda: The Sweet Spot

Now, head a few kilometers north and you land in Saranda—my home base and, in my opinion, the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast. No exaggeration.

Saranda is the heart of the Albanian Riviera. It’s got that perfect mix: lively in summer, calm in winter, with all the essentials—hospitals, supermarkets, proper bakeries (there’s one near the bus station that makes the best byrek me djathë), and an easy-going pace of life. Not too sleepy, not too wild.

Here, you’ll find plenty of affordable properties, especially compared to Ksamil. Whether you’re after compact Saranda apartments for sale with a sea view, or something a bit more spacious for year-round living, the options are growing fast.

Our Residenca 12 project has been especially popular with expats looking for long-term homes. The units are well-designed, close to Butrinti Street (where most new builds are happening), and they still fall into that sweet spot of value-for-money.

And can we talk about sunsets? I mean, Saranda gets the best ones. You don’t get that same golden hour in Ksamil—too many buildings block the light. But in Saranda, especially if you’re up on the hills behind the town, the view as the sun dips behind Corfu is just… unforgettable.

A Quick Tangent on Coffee (Stay With Me)

I have to pause here to mention something that always comes up with clients—coffee culture. It’s strong here. Really strong. People will judge you based on where you drink your espresso. And I love that. There’s a tiny place next to the mosque in the center of Saranda—no sign, no menu, just old men playing chess and talking politics. That’s the soul of this town.

If you’re thinking of buying here, spend a week just wandering. Have coffee in three different places. Talk to locals. That’s how you know if Saranda fits your rhythm.