The Mesmerising Beauty of the Albanian Riviera

Albania is not necessarily at the top of your list when contemplating your annual holiday which is probably why it remains a very well-kept secret.

"The Adriatic underdog is being touted as the next Croatia among adventurous beach-seekers", according to The Guardian newspaper and when you take a look at the breath-taking landscape, explore layer upon layer of cultural influence and feel the warm embrace of the Albanian people - you'll understand exactly why.

Honing in on this beautiful country in south-eastern Europe, bordered by Montenegro, Macedonia and Greece, the eco-resort location of Kep Merli stands out as a perfect holiday location with all the very best things Albania has to offer.

A magical place, Kep Merli has been constructed to the highest specification whilst remaining in balance with the eco-system and in perfect harmony with its environment. The resort is home to two luxurious hotels, one exclusively for families and the other dedicated purely to self-indulgence; both with staggering views of the Ionian Sea.

There is so much to see and do on the Albanian Riviera

Just outside the Kep Merli resort is the vibrant town of Saranda, one of the most important tourist destinations of the Albanian Riviera where you can pick up a 2-bedroom apartment with a glorious sea view for around €80,000. Weekly rental rates of up to €600 are achievable for this size apartment in the peak of summer, reducing to €350 per week for the winter season.

There is so much to see and do on the Albanian Riviera - from high-octane watersports to relaxing on sun-drenched beaches; expeditions through Greek, Roman or Byzantine ruins to the taste-exploration of Albania's multi-cultural cuisine.

Albania's economy has undergone a transition from its Communist past to an open-market economy since the early 1990s. The country is super-rich in natural resources and its government is anxious to capitalise on rising interest from international eco-tourists to bolster its coffers further.

Since the global financial crisis, Albania has seen exports increase exponentially by a staggering 300% compared to 2008, establishing the country as a significant contributor to global trade. With tourism improving annually and set to grow over the next few years, interest in the country's real estate is also rising.

The fundamentals are attractive from a property investor's point of view, with many bargains to be had in a region set for significant growth. Apart from the absolutely gob-smacking gorgeousness of the place, there is a lot of incentive to buy a little piece of Albanian paradise.