In 1990, after more than four decades of xenophobic communist rule, Albania established a multiparty democracy. One of Europe’s first Christian countries, Albania has an intriguing mix of civilisations and cultures. With majestic mountains and more than its fair share of sunny Adriatic coastline, Albania has tremendous tourism potential.

There is now one golf course to be played in Albania. La Perla Golf Club and Beach Resort opened in 2010 and is located to the north of Durres along the stunning Lalezit Bay which is set on the opposite side of the Adriatic to the heel of Italy. Apparently a renowned architect designed the 18-hole La Perla golf course, but we’ve don’t know which designer’s pen was used. Plans are afoot to develop a Golf & Beach Resort called Gose Island. We know very little about Gose Island but we’ll keep a watchful eye on proceedings.

Once the economic climate improves, and as Albania continues to prosper, one or two other dramatic golf courses will surely spring up along the Adriatic coast and when they do, we’ll be the first to let you know.