St. Mary’s Monastery is a small, historic monastery located on an island in the Narta Lagoon, about a 30-minute drive from the Lungomare in Vlora. The monastery dates back to the 13th–14th century and is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, making it an important cultural and religious site in the area.

One of the highlights of visiting is the long wooden walkway that leads from the mainland to the island, it adds to the peaceful atmosphere of the place. The surrounding lagoon is also home to various bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and other coastal birds, so you may spot some wildlife along the way.

There is free parking right across from the entrance, and access is easy. Overall, it’s a great quick stop (30–60 minutes) if you’re arriving in or passing through Vlora: calm, unique, and a bit different from the typical beach stops.