Hotel Kalemi

Experience the historic Ottoman-era architecture for which Gjirokaster is famous -- stay in a lovingly restored characteristic home, the Hotel Kalemi.

This charming guesthouse/hotel features traditional woodwork and carved ceilings inside, and the balconies offer sweeping views across the slate-roofed homes to the fortress. The hotel has reliable electricity (partly solar), central heating and constant hot water. Some rooms have traditional design featuers, others are of modern design. All rooms have private bathrooms and television, some have air-conditioning. Breakfast is included in the price of the rooms.

Tourist attractions within the city include an ethnographic museum and the immense fortress, as well as the cobblestoned streets, old bazaar and historic tower homes characteristic of Ottoman-era cities. Other area attractions include two archeological sites (the Illyrian city of Antigonea, and the theater and baths near Sofratike), one of the oldest standing Orthodox churches in the Balkans in the village of Labove, and the fortress of Ali Pasha in nearby Tepelene.

NOTE: Prices listed are per room per night (not per person). Payment can be made by cash only, and we accept Albanian lek, euros or dollar.

Directions

Gjirokaster is located approximately 250km from Tirana along the national road, 20km from the Kakavia border crossing to Greece, and 60km from the seaside city of Saranda. If arriving by car from Tirana, take the road up into the old town at the second traffic circle. From the main square, ask for Hotel Kalemi and friendly residents will be happy to point you in the right direction. Frequent public buses link Gjirokaster to Tirana and the coast, as well as many other cities. If arriving by bus, take a taxi (200lek) directly up to the hotel.

Facilities

Breakfast Included, Internet Access, Laundry, Bar, Luggage Storage, 24 hour reception, Travel Desk/Travel Info, Bureau de Change, Free Carpark, 24 Hour Check In, Air Conditioning

Lagja Palorto, Gjirokaster, Albania