How to Create Your Own Coastal Oasis: Landscaping Tips for Your Beachfront Villa

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the sound of the waves gently crashing on the shore, surrounded by the beauty of the Albanian Riviera, I’m right there with you. As someone who has lived and worked in Saranda for years, I can tell you: there’s nothing quite like it. And if you’re lucky enough to own or invest in a beachfront property here, you’re in for something truly special.

Last week, I showed a client a stunning property in Ksamil, and their reaction reminded me why I love this job. Standing there on the terrace, overlooking the sparkling sea and olive groves, they immediately started envisioning their own coastal oasis—complete with a dreamy garden, private pool, and, of course, the perfect Mediterranean vibe. It made me think: what makes a beachfront villa truly feel like a sanctuary? How can you create a space that mirrors the natural beauty of the surroundings and lets you fully embrace the coastal lifestyle?

I’ve spent years helping people find their dream homes on the Albanian Riviera, and along the way, I’ve learned a lot about turning a house into a home. When it comes to beachfront properties, it’s all about integrating nature with design. Here are some tips to help you transform your beachfront villa into your very own coastal oasis, with landscaping ideas that work perfectly in this stunning part of the world.

1. Embrace the Local Flora

When I think about the landscape in Saranda, one of the first things that comes to mind is the mix of rugged hills and lush greenery. The hillsides are dotted with olive trees, cypress, and Mediterranean shrubs, while the coastline is framed by wildflowers and palm trees. If you’re designing a garden for your beachfront villa, think about incorporating these plants to maintain that natural coastal feel.

You can’t go wrong with olive trees, especially along the property’s edges, where they create natural barriers while still letting you enjoy the views. If you’re not sure where to start, I’d recommend visiting the olive groves outside of Borsh, where you can see how the locals have made olive trees a feature of their landscapes for centuries.

I once worked with a client who was skeptical about using native plants. They were worried it might feel too wild or unkempt, but after a visit to a few of these coastal properties, they saw how beautiful and low-maintenance it could be. Plus, native plants are adapted to the dry, hot summers and mild winters here—so they’ll thrive without much fuss.

2. Use Outdoor Spaces to Maximize Views

Let’s face it—if you’ve invested in a beachfront property, you’ve probably got a stunning view to match. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast, and we’ve got some of the most breathtaking vistas around. Whether you’re looking at the crystal-clear Ionian Sea or the rugged hills in the distance, your outdoor space should help you make the most of those views.

Consider incorporating a terrace that runs the length of your villa, with a combination of shaded areas for dining and open spaces for lounging. A modern infinity pool, positioned just right, can help blend the boundaries between your property and the sea. I’ve seen this design work wonderfully in a few of the luxury villas I’ve shown in Borsh—such as the beautiful luxurious villas for sale in Borsh—where the pool seems to spill right into the horizon.

But the key is to use the natural topography. For example, in Ksamil, I’ve seen properties take full advantage of the elevated terrain to create tiered gardens that lead down to the beach. The terraces on these plots offer unobstructed views of the turquoise waters, making them perfect for al fresco dining or simply enjoying a glass of wine while the sun sets.