Partially Abandoned Hot Springs Complex

Hot springs exist in several places across Albania. The water flows in continuous streams, under pressure and at a temperature of around 40 degrees, carries the smell of hydrogen sulphide, has a complex chemical composition and certain effects said to be beneficial to health.

The springs were discovered long ago, but their transformation into a resort began in the second half of the 20th century, under communist rule. On the orders of Enver Hoxha, a thermal resort was built complete with a treatment centre and bathing facilities. The place is still in operation and resembles a communist-era sanatorium. Soaking in a hot bath is offered as a course of several days, though each visit is paid for separately (around 1.50 euros).

The far, rear section of the resort has been abandoned — a detached L-shaped building containing hotel rooms and individual baths. Inside an arch bricked up with iron, an abandoned car sits and rusts.

There are no guards, and access to the sanatorium grounds is free. Nobody minds you wandering wherever you like or poking around the derelict parts. The main building is still operating, though in places it too looks rather run-down.