Plizio Visual Lab

Grama Bay

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

Grama Bay is a remarkable natural and historical landmark situated on the western coast of the Karaburun Peninsula in southern Albania. For over two millennia, this secluded cove has served as a safe haven for sailors seeking refuge from the turbulent storms of the Ionian Sea and the Strait of Otranto. Its fame arises from the hundreds of ancient and medieval inscriptions carved into the vertical limestone cliffs surrounding the bay. These 'grammata' (Greek for letters), which give the bay its name, were left by sailors, soldiers, and travelers from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras. The inscriptions include prayers to deities, the names of notable historical figures, and records of various ship arrivals. Geographically, the bay is shielded by steep cliffs and is primarily accessible by boat or via a demanding hike across the peninsula. Today, it is a key component of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park, cherished for its crystal-clear waters and its status as a unique open-air maritime archive. Grama Bay features an unparalleled glimpse into the seafaring traditions and classical history of the Mediterranean.

Location: Albania
Top sights: Plazhi i Gramës · San Andrea Beach · Plazhi i Llovizit
Nearby: Llogara Pass (10 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	13	13	14	16	19	22	25	26	24	21	18	14
Rain mm	116	101	90	57	48	25	17	23	82	109	135	143

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Grama Bay is a remote bay on the Ionian coast, accessible only by boat or on foot. The area is freely accessible and can be visited at any time.

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Typical hours

As it is an open bay with no facilities, there are no visiting hours. Travel should be done during daylight as the path and boat trip are dangerous in the dark.

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Photography

Photography is allowed without restrictions throughout the bay. The ancient inscriptions on the rock walls are unique subjects, best photographed in oblique light.

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Time needed

Allow at least half a day for travel and time in the bay. If you want to study the inscriptions and swim, you can easily spend several hours there.

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Combine with

The bay is near the Llogara Pass and National Park, which are suitable for combination. The beaches of Dhërmi and Himara are also accessible along the coast.

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Getting there

The bay is best reached by a rented boat from Himara or Dhërmi. A challenging hiking trail also leads down from the coastal road to the bay.

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Insider tip

Bring snorkeling gear as the water in the bay is crystal clear and there are interesting rock formations underwater. Bring enough supplies as there are no provisions available.

Geography

Coordinates

40.21700, 19.47100

Facts

Grama Bay contains over 1,500 historical rock inscriptions.
The earliest inscriptions date back to the 3rd century BCE.
It was used as a sanctuary for sailors to pray for safe passage.
The bay is part of the Karaburun-Sazan Marine National Park.
Inscriptions are found in Greek, Latin, and Medieval scripts.
The bay is accessible only by boat or a very long trek over rugged terrain.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Llogara Pass10 km · EExplore →

Gjon Boçari Castle10 km · NExplore →

Marmiroi Church11 km · NExplore →

Orikum Lagoon13 km · NExplore →

Palasë14 km · SEExplore →

Maja e Çikës15 km · EExplore →

Dhërmi16 km · SEExplore →

Gjipe Beach20 km · SEExplore →

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 Grama Bay (3)

Plazhi i Gramës 🎡 recreation

A secluded pebble beach in Grama Bay, accessible only by boat or hiking.

San Andrea Beach 🎡 recreation

In the impressive Grama Bay, San Andrea Beach awaits adventurous visitors. Far from busy routes, this secluded stretch of coast provides untouched water and spectacular rocky backdrops. A peaceful retreat best visited during the warm season.

Plazhi i Llovizit🎡 recreation

A small, quiet beach in Grama Bay with clear water and few visitors.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How can you get to Grama Bay?

The bay is accessible almost exclusively by boat from Vlorë or Dhërmi. A hike from Llogara is long and strenuous.

What makes Grama Bay so historically special?

On the cliff walls, there are hundreds of ancient inscriptions left by sailors from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine times.

Is there drinking water in the bay?

No, there is no infrastructure or springs. Visitors must bring their own sufficient water and supplies.

Is camping allowed in Grama Bay?

Wild camping is often tolerated, but you must take all trash back with you to protect the pristine nature.

Is snorkeling good in the bay?

Yes, the water is crystal clear and the rocky coast has a rich underwater world with many fish.

Grama Bay: where is it located?

Grama Bay is located in Albania.

Grama Bay: what is there to see?

Highlights include Plazhi i Gramës, San Andrea Beach, Plazhi i Llovizit.

Grama Bay: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.

Grama Bay: why is it worth visiting?

Grama Bay is a remarkable natural and historical landmark situated on the western coast of the Karaburun Peninsula in southern Albania.

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