Ksamil is famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch experience. Whether you’re craving a farm-fresh feast, a boat trip with a seaside barbecue, or an off-road adventure with local flavors, Ksamil offers options that showcase the region’s authentic charm. We’ve handpicked four of the best lunch experiences, each with its own unique appeal. Personally, I love the Farm Day Gourmet Lunch for its relaxed countryside setting and hands-on cooking class, but the boat tours also stand out for their scenic beauty and fresh seafood.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a farm-to-table gourmet lunch with activities in Saranda, an exciting boat tour with BBQ lunch to Tongo Island, a full-day boat trip exploring Ksamil Islands with snorkeling, and a 4×4 off-road safari culminating in a traditional Albanian meal. Each offers a different way to enjoy the local flavors and scenery—whether on land or sea. Below, find detailed descriptions to help you choose the perfect experience for your trip.
1. Saranda: Farm Day! Gourmet Lunch, Tour & Cooking Class!
Experience the countryside just outside Saranda with this engaging agrotourism farm tour. This tour combines hands-on Albanian cooking classes, a six-course farm-to-table feast, and plenty of outdoor fun. The farm features a natural pool and friendly rescue farm animals, making it ideal for families or those seeking a relaxed, authentic experience.
The highlight is the six-course gourmet meal with unlimited wine and ice-tea, showcasing fresh ingredients from the farm. The cooking class is a rare chance to learn traditional Albanian recipes directly from the hosts—who are welcoming and passionate about their food. Guests rave about the friendly hosts, the delicious food, and the beautiful views. The tour also includes feeding the animals and swimming in the natural pool, providing a perfect balance of activities and downtime.
What makes this experience stand out is its authenticity and personal touch. The tour lasts about five hours, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. The transportation is included, so all you need to do is enjoy.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, authentic Albanian farm experience with excellent food and local interaction, this is your top choice. It’s especially good for families, food lovers, and those wanting to see a different side of Albania.
2. From Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
For a scenic day on the water, the Tongo Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch delivers stunning views and a fun seafood feast. Departing from Ksamil, this tour combines sightseeing with snorkeling and beach relaxation. The boat heads across the Ionian Sea, where you might even catch a glimpse of jumping dolphins—an unforgettable sight.
The tour includes stops at Tongo Island and Ftelea Beach, both with white sandy shores perfect for lounging or jumping off rocks for a quick swim. You’ll also get the chance to snorkel in clear waters and explore underwater marine life. The barbecue lunch features grilled fish, vegetables, feta cheese, and fresh fruits, served on the boat or at the beach—perfect for refueling after swimming or sunbathing.
The itinerary includes a photo stop, a quick scuba diving session, and a jungle swing for adventurous travelers. The trip lasts about a day, giving ample time for sightseeing and relaxation while taking in views of the coastline.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who love the sea, good food, and a bit of adventure, this tour offers a lively, scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and photos.
3. Ksamil: Tongo Island Boat Tour with Lunch
This full-day boat trip from Ksamil offers a comprehensive exploration of the Albanian Riviera’s beaches and islands, topped off with a tasty lunch. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time on the water, combining snorkelling, sightseeing, and local flavors in one package.
The tour visits Ksamil Islands and Tongo Island, giving you a chance to experience the beauty of the region’s many islands. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling, and you’ll see vibrant marine life beneath the surface. The lunch features fresh seafood or classic Albanian dishes, served on the boat with spectacular coastal views.
This trip is about relaxing and enjoying the scenery—there’s no rush, just plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak in the landscape. It’s a longer tour, around seven hours, making it suitable for those with a full day to spare.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full immersion in the beaches and islands of the Albanian Riviera, combined with great food, this boat trip is a fantastic choice.
4. From Sarandë: Off-Road 4×4 Safari with Traditional Lunch
For travelers interested in scenery and local culture, the Off-Road 4×4 Safari offers a full-day adventure through some of South Albania’s most stunning landscapes. Starting with a scenic drive from Ksamil to Saranda, the tour then heads into rural areas that travelers rarely see.
Highlights include a visit to Borsh Beach, famed for its calm, clear waters, and a stop at Shen Vasil village for a traditional Albanian lunch. The off-road drive takes you to Blue Eye, a beautiful spring with striking blue waters, hidden away in nature. The tour wraps up with sunset views from Lekuresi Castle, offering panoramic vistas over Saranda.
This trip, guided by an English-speaking guide, is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and outdoor activity. It lasts about six and a half hours and provides a different perspective on Albania’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to explore beyond the beaches, combining scenic drives, local food, and photo-worthy scenery.
How to Choose
Selecting the right lunch experience depends on your interests. If you prefer a relaxed farm setting with cooking and animals, the Farm Day! Gourmet Lunch, Tour & Cooking Class is ideal. Those looking for seafood and island views will love the Tongo Island boat tours or the longer Ksamil boat trip with lunch. For travelers seeking adventure and scenic drives, the off-road safari offers a deeper look into Albania’s countryside and tastes.
Consider your budget, activity level, and where you want the focus—be it food, scenery, or outdoor fun. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak season.
Final Thoughts
Ksamil offers a surprising variety of lunch experiences that go beyond simple dining—each blends stunning scenery, local culture, and delicious food. For a unique farm experience with a hands-on cooking class, the Farm Day tops our list. If you love sea adventures, the boat tours provide scenic routes with tasty barbecue or seafood. And for those who want to combine scenery and culture, the off-road safari offers a more rugged, authentic taste of Albania.
Whichever you choose, these options promise a flavorful slice of Albanian life, making your trip to Ksamil even more memorable. Be sure to book early, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your spot on these popular tours.