Perched on the edge of the lake, next to the Grand Park of Tirana in Sauk, the Radisson Collection Morina Tirana makes for a peaceful base for exploring Albania’s capital away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Radisson Collection is a group of 36 stylish and unique hotels around the world, reflecting a more high-end, local and contemporary scene. The Morina Tirana property opened in 2022 and is the first luxury international chain to open in the city. It’s finished to the highest standard, with 49 rooms and suites across eight floors, all boasting a neoclassical, Louis XVI-inspired decor by Italian architects Cross Design, and views out to the surrounding lakes and mountains. All rooms have espresso machines, black marble bathrooms and walk-in showers.
The Garden of Eden restaurant does a stellar a la carte breakfast during the week – I can vouch for the creamy scrambled eggs and smoked salmon – and a buffet during the weekend. Lunch and dinner is Mediterranean-inspired, and there are two bars – one lakeside, and in summer, one on the roof to maximise those views.
In the basement there’s a heated pool, sauna and steam room, plus gym and hairdresser. The outdoor pool will definitely come into its own when the weather warms up. Having the Grand Park of Tirana and Artificial Lake of Tirana on your doorstep is also a bonus, with walks, cafes and outdoor activities to enjoy.
Ten minutes away by taxi is the hip area of Blloku, full of bars, clubs, boutiques and restaurants. Back in the day, this was the Communist Party’s neighbourhood and home of former Prime Minister, Enver Hӧxha. And five minutes from there is Skanderbeg Square – the main focal point of Tirana, home to the National Theatre of Opera, the Ballet of Albania, the National History Museum and City Hall.
Whilst in town, don’t miss the plethora of museums that tell the story of Albania’s communist past. Bunk’Art 2 is the closest of the two Bunk’Arts (the other is a bus ride out of town, but well worth the effort, and can be tacked on to a ride on the funicular). Housed in a former bunker, it’is a mix of art installations and exhibits that describe some of Albania’s communist history. Nearby is the House of Leaves or Museum of Secret Surveillance, housed in a historic building, which contains items used during the communist regime to spy on Albanian citizens. Bus number 2 will take you all the way from the hotel to Skanderbeg Square.
Muzeu Historik Kombëtar, Tirana (Photo by Drini Teta, courtesy of Unplash)
Having a Radisson Collection property in Albania’s capital city is a huge boost to the local tourism economy, which has been growing exponentially in recent years. With regular direct flights now operating from all over the UK, Albania is within easy reach, meaning it’s now firmly planted on the British tourist map. Tirana was named European Youth Capital in 2022, and enjoys a Mediterranean climate, and safe, easily walkable streets. The city, and country in general, is changing fast. So come now and enjoy it while it’s still affordable and relatively quiet.
Rooms start from 68.57 euros per night.Radisson Collection Morina Tirana, Liqeni i thate, Rruga “Hamdi Garunja”, Tirana, 1063, Albania. For more information, please visit www.radissonhotels.com.
