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Borsh Castle

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Borsh Castle, also referred to as Sopot Castle, is situated on a 500-meter-high rocky hill overlooking the coastal village of Borsh in southern Albania. The fortress's history dates back to the 4th century BC, originally established as an Illyrian defensive site. Its commanding position allowed it to control the vital coastal road connecting Vlorë and Butrint for centuries. During the Middle Ages, the castle underwent several reconstructions under the Despotate of Epirus and later the Venetians. In the early 19th century, Ali Pasha Tepelena extensively renovated the fortress and added a mosque within the complex, the ruins of which remain visible today. The expansive site spans a plateau offering dramatic views of the Ionian Sea and the nearby island of Corfu. Despite suffering damage during various historical conflicts, the outer perimeter walls and several towers are still remarkably well-preserved. Today, Borsh Castle is a popular destination for hikers and history enthusiasts exploring the rugged beauty and ancient heritage of the Albanian Riviera.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Gjiri i Këndesave · Panoramic viewpoint at Upper Qeparo · Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay
Nearby: Lukovë (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	7	10	13	18	23	26	26	21	17	12	8
Rain mm	119	104	91	58	50	28	16	24	84	110	140	150

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Borsh Castle is a sprawling ruin that can be visited freely without an entrance fee. It sits on a hill and has excellent views of the village of Borsh and the coastline.

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Typical hours

As an open ruin, it is accessible at any time with no fixed opening hours. A daytime visit is recommended, as the terrain is uneven and unlit.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the site and is rewarding, especially at sunset. The ancient walls and surrounding landscape provide great subjects.

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Time needed

Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the castle ruins at a leisurely pace and enjoy the views. For a thorough exploration of all corners, plan a bit more time.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Borsh Beach, one of the longest beaches in Albania. The thermal springs of Saranda are also worth a trip.

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Getting there

The castle is accessible on foot from the village of Borsh in about 20-30 minutes. Follow the marked paths or ask locals for the shortest route.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear, as the paths within the ruins are rocky and uneven. Bring plenty of water, especially on hot days, as there are no food facilities on site.

Geography

Coordinates

40.06500, 19.85170

Facts

Established as an Illyrian fortress in the 4th century BC.
Located at an elevation of 500 meters above sea level.
Historically documented as Sopot Castle during the Middle Ages.
Renovated by Ali Pasha Tepelena in the early 19th century.
Contains the ruins of an 18th-century Ottoman mosque.
Overlooks the coastal road connecting Vlorë and Butrint.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Borsh<1 km · SEExplore →

Qeparo3 km · WExplore →

Porto Palermo Castle5 km · WExplore →

Lukovë8 km · SEExplore →

Himarë10 km · WExplore →

Himara Castle12 km · NWExplore →

Nivicë-Bubar16 km · SEExplore →

Gjipe Canyon17 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Borsh Castle (7)

Gjiri i Këndesave

Small bay on the Albanian Riviera, surrounded by olive groves.

Panoramic viewpoint at Upper Qeparo

Viewpoint in Upper Qeparo overlooking the coast and the Ionian Sea.

Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay

Tiny private bay, accessible only by sea or by climbing down rocks, worth the visit.

Borsh Beach

Long pebble beach on the Albanian Riviera, lined with olive trees.

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House Ruine

Ruined stone house near Borsh, evidence of rural architecture.

Plazhi i Qeparos

Pebble beach in the village of Qeparo, quiet and less frequented.

Kalaja në Qeparo

Archaeological site with fortress remains above Qeparo.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How strenuous is the climb to Borsh Castle?

The path leads steeply uphill through olive groves. It takes about 20-30 minutes on foot from the road.

What ruins can be seen there?

You can see the remains of the fortification walls as well as a small mosque from the era of Ali Pasha Tepelena.

When was the castle abandoned?

The castle was largely destroyed and abandoned after the wars in the 19th century.

Is it worth a visit?

Yes, especially for the solitude and the spectacular view of the Ionian Sea and the Borsh coast.

Is there water or snacks at the summit?

No, there are no facilities at the castle. Be sure to bring enough water with you.

Borsh Castle: where is it located?

Borsh Castle is located in Albania.

Borsh Castle: what is there to see?

Highlights include Gjiri i Këndesave, Panoramic viewpoint at Upper Qeparo, Gjiri Amla - Amla Bay.

Borsh Castle: when is the best time to visit?