Welcome to the tranquil charm of Kerculla Resort, where tradition and luxury come together on the scenic hills of Gjirokaster, Albania. Our stay here delivered everything we were looking for — and then some. With the majestic Gjirokaster Castle rising in the distance and dramatic mountain ridges wrapping the horizon, our time here felt like stepping into a living postcard.
Picture this: you wake to sweeping views of ancient stone rooftops tumbling down the hillside, with the castle on one side and the lush Albanian countryside stretching forever on the other. Add in a delicious buffet breakfast, a serene outdoor pool, and a gracious team that treats every guest like family — and you’ve got the makings of a truly unforgettable escape.
Whether you’re traveling solo, exploring as a couple, or bringing the family along, Kerculla Resort strikes the perfect balance between peaceful retreat and gateway to adventure. Here’s our honest review of Kerculla, drawn from personal experience, to help you plan your own visit to this hidden gem in southern Albania.
Quick Tips
Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your visit to Kerculla Resort, Gjirokaster, Albania.
- Best for: Couples, families, solo travelers, and empty-nesters seeking a quiet retreat with rich cultural surroundings.
- Location: Perched on a hillside just a short walk from the Old Bazaar of Gjirokaster, with panoramic views of the castle and surrounding mountains.
- Vibe: Tranquil, welcoming, boutique-style comfort with traditional Albanian flair.
- Room tip: Book a room with a balcony or terrace for the best castle and countryside views — sunrise is spectacular.
- Don’t miss: The infinity-style pool overlooking the valley and castle — it’s a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city or surrounding area itself.
- Dining: The resort’s on-site restaurant offers a rotating dinner menu and a hearty buffet breakfast (usually included in the cost of your room) featuring local specialties.
- Wifi: Strong and reliable — even good enough for remote work (if you must!).
- Parking: Free, private parking available on-site.
- Accessibility: While the resort itself is modern and easy to navigate, be aware that Gjirokaster’s cobbled streets and inclines can be challenging for those with mobility concerns.
- What we loved most: The genuine warmth of the staff, the blend of traditional stone architecture with modern comfort, and the peaceful luxury of sipping morning coffee while watching the fog rise over the rooftops.
Follow these tips and recommendations, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a fantastic visit to Kerculla Resort, Gjirokaster, Albania!
Plan Your Trip
Some of the links in this post might earn us a small commission if you make a purchase – but don’t worry, it won’t cost you anything extra! Supporting us this way helps us continue sharing our best travel content and tips. See our full disclosures for details. Thanks a million, and happy travels!
Planning to visit Gjirokaster, Albania? Take advantage of the following resources curated just for you.
Book Your Gjirokaster Adventure Now!
Prefer additional options? Click below to discover more incredible experiences tailored just for you!
Choose from top attractions in Gjirokaster, Albania.
Or …
Looking for more travel essentials?
Check out our top picks below. For additional trusted tools, gear, and resources we personally use, visit our Travel Resources page to make planning your adventure effortless.
Kerculla Resort Overview
Kerculla Resort is a 4-star hotel in the old part of Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property is situated at an elevation with an amazing view of the entire city. From the pool area, or perhaps from your balcony, every corner offers a fantastic view.
The resort’s restaurant is a world leader in boutique hospitality in southern Albania, offering a complete menu of both traditional and modern dishes to please every palate.
From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by friendly staff who were exceptional throughout our stay. At Kerculla Resort, comfort is at its core. The resort has a range of room options, including deluxe double room, king room and queen suite categories. Each room has air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and soundproof walls, so you can fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
Suites and Rooms
We stayed in a room with a view of the pool area, looking down upon Gjirokaster Castle and the river valley. The resort’s choice views had us reaching for our cameras all the time. The deluxe double room is perfect for couples — the deluxe king suite for those who want space and luxury. Families and groups may find the queen suite with sofa beds provide just the right amount of comfort and flexibility. The resort offers accessible rooms to ensure all guests feel comfortable and welcome.
Our deluxe king suite was beautifully decorated, mixing tradition with modernity.
Our room was gorgeous (we seriously couldn’t fault it!) though much closer to the pool than we were expecting! The bed was very comfortable and we both slept well.
Resort Features and Services
The gym and outdoor pool area at Kerculla Resort make exercising a pleasure, not a duty. Surrounded by scenic views, the swimming pool is a refreshing break. For cooler days the steam room is a cozy retreat.
On site you’ll find:
- A fitness center (locally known as fitness center energy gym)
- A vending machine for snacks or drinks
- An on-site bar with stunning view
- Various resort services, including laundry, room upgrades and a tour desk
- A modern banquet hall for events, celebrations and business meetings
The resort also offers:
- Access information and maps of local sites
- Related services that include car rentals and day tours
- Tours to Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter), a nearby nature destination
- Support for bookings via online travel platforms
Dining at Kerculla Resort
The Outdoor Breakfast Experience
One of the highlights of our stay at Kerculla Resort was the buffet breakfast included every morning, served in the open air dining room with a breathtaking view of Gjirokaster’s rooftops and valley. This wasn’t just a breakfast – it was an experience of fresh air, morning light and genuine Albanian hospitality.
The buffet breakfast was a real feast: warm pastries, local cheeses, fruit platters, eggs made to order and Albanian specialties that let us taste the culture before we even left the table. A glass of orange juice and a cup of strong coffee became our daily ritual as we enjoyed the stunning views from the terrace.
We looked forward to start the day here – the environment was peaceful, the food was amazing, and the vibe reminded us to slow down and enjoy life.
Traditional Dining With a View
The dining experience at Kerculla Resort went beyond breakfast. The restaurant also served grilled lamb, seafood risotto, traditional and modern dishes with flair.
Guests can enjoy:
- Authentic Albanian cuisine
- A good choice of meals for vegetarians, pescatarians and meat lovers
- Food made with fresh ingredients
- A bar with local and international drinks
Whether you choose to sit in the covered dining room or have a cocktail at the on-site bar, every meal comes with a beautiful view.
The Guest Experience
From the moment we arrived, the friendly staff made us feel completely at home. It was clear that the team takes pride in welcoming guests and goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. Every staff member made our stay personal.
We arrived at the Kerculla Resort around 10am – too early to check in just yet – so we left our luggage at reception and walked into town. We received a lovely welcome upon our return around 3.45pm — friendly staff and a homemade cherry jam welcome snack (yum!), apparently made from their very own cherry trees!
Check-Out and Extra Services
Check-in and check-out were smooth and straightforward.
Just a quick note for fellow travelers: we arrived before the standard check-in time and were surprised to find there wasn’t a designated luggage storage area. The staff kindly offered to watch our bags in the lobby, and everything was perfectly safe — but leaving them out in the open did feel a bit awkward as we left behind all our belongings to head off to explore Gjirokaster’s Old Town.
Final Thoughts
For us, Kerculla Resort wasn’t just a place to stay – it was a place to breathe, eat and connect with something timeless. The combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage and breathtaking views made this a special destination. From the hillside location and view of Gjirokaster Castle to the restaurant, deluxe double room and always-open fitness center, there’s something here for everyone. We highly recommend you let Kerculla Resort be your home in Albania.
Kerculla Resort really does offer for guests the perfect mix of old and new. And we wouldn’t hesitate to return.
Perhaps now is the time to plan your trip!
FAQs
Is Kerculla Resort a good place to stay in Gjirokaster, Albania?
Yes. Kerculla Resort is a popular 4-star hotel in Gjirokaster known for panoramic views over the UNESCO-listed old town and Gjirokaster Castle, a peaceful outdoor pool, and consistently warm, attentive service. It’s a strong choice for couples, families, and empty-nesters who want comfort close to the historic center.
Where is Kerculla Resort located in Gjirokaster?
Kerculla Resort is perched on the hillside above the historic center of Gjirokaster, Albania. The elevated location gives the resort its signature castle-and-valley views and still allows relatively quick access to the Old Bazaar and key sites in the UNESCO old town.
Does Kerculla Resort have parking, Wi-Fi, and amenities like a pool or gym?
Yes. Kerculla Resort offers free private parking and reliable Wi-Fi. Amenities include a scenic outdoor pool with valley views, an on-site fitness center, a bar, and helpful services such as laundry and a tour desk. The resort’s hillside setting is beautiful, but the steep and cobbled streets in Gjirokaster can be challenging for travelers with mobility concerns.
What is the breakfast and dining like at Kerculla Resort?
Breakfast is typically served as a buffet and is included with many stays. Guests can expect a wide selection such as pastries, fruit, eggs, cheeses, and local Albanian specialties, often enjoyed on an open-air terrace with sweeping views. The on-site restaurant also serves a mix of traditional Albanian cuisine and modern dishes for lunch and dinner.
What rooms are available at Kerculla Resort?
Kerculla Resort offers several room types, including deluxe double rooms, king rooms, and suite options such as a deluxe king suite and a queen suite (some with sofa beds). For the best experience, choose a room with a balcony or terrace so you can enjoy sunrise and sunset views toward Gjirokaster Castle and the valley.
Explore More Of Albania
-
Himare, Albania: A Guide to the Best Things To Do
Himare, Albania is a laid-back coastal town on the Albanian Riviera known for crystal-clear beaches, historic Himare Castle, and easy access to day trips like Dhermi, Porto Palermo, and Butrint National Park. This guide covers the best things to do in Himare, where to stay, how to get there, and when to visit.
-
Berat Albania: Best Things to See and Do
Discover Berat, Albania’s UNESCO-listed “City of a Thousand Windows.” Explore Berat Castle, the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, local food, day trips, and essential travel tips for planning the perfect visit.
-
Berat Castle, Albania: A Guide to Your Next Visit
Discover Berat Castle, Albania’s hilltop fortress known for its Byzantine churches, stone walls, village life, and stunning views over the Osum River.
-
Gjirokaster, Albania: A Guide to the Top Things to Do
Explore Gjirokaster, Albania’s UNESCO-listed Stone City. Discover the Old Town, Gjirokaster Castle, Cold War history, traditional food, day trips, and practical travel planning tips.
