From Sarandë: The Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle

If you’re looking for a way to get out of Sarandë and see some of Albania’s most captivating sights, this tour might be just what you need. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to combine natural beauty with a touch of history, all packed into about three hours.

What really draws people in are two things: the breathtaking Blue Eye with its crystal-clear waters and the panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle that overlook Saranda, Butrint Lagoon, and even the Greek island of Corfu. These spots are iconic for a reason—they’re photogenic, memorable, and offer a welcome break from busy city life.

That said, this tour isn’t for everyone. It’s a short trip, so if you’re after an in-depth exploration or want to spend hours at each site, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, since the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues.

This experience suits those who want a quick, scenic taste of southern Albania’s natural and historical highlights. It’s especially good if you’re tight on time but still want to see some top attractions.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: The Blue Eye offers crystal-clear waters and lush greenery that captivate visitors.
• Great panoramic views: Lekuresi Castle gives you a sweeping outlook over Saranda and beyond.
• Comfortable small-group setup: Limited to 15 people, making the experience more personal.
• Includes transportation and entry tickets: No need to worry about extra costs or logistics.
• Timing is flexible: The tour lasts around 3 hours, with morning departures available.
• No food or hotel pickup: Be prepared to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour: What to Expect

When you sign up for this trip, you’re signing up for a neat package that combines nature, history, and spectacular views. It’s a good way to spend half a day and tick off some must-see sights in southern Albania.

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off at Rruga Skënderbeu 61 in Sarandë. You’ll meet your guide 15 minutes early—it’s worth arriving on time because the small group size means they’re pretty strict about keeping to the schedule. Transportation is included in the tour price, so once you’re all aboard, you can relax and enjoy the ride through the lush local scenery.

The Journey to the Blue Eye

The first stop is the famous Blue Eye, which is about an hour away from Sarandë. As you drive through the greenery, your guide will share some insights about the area, making the journey part of the experience. Once you arrive, you’ll get some time to explore and take in the views.

The Blue Eye: Nature’s Marvel

This natural phenomenon is a sight that sticks with you. The Blue Eye is a water source with a diameter over 50 meters, and it’s known for its intense blue color and transparency. Visitors often comment on how crystal clear the water is, which allows you to see the bottom, creating a surreal effect.

One of the highlights is simply watching how the water’s hue shifts with the sunlight, and hearing the gentle rush of water from the source. Many reviews mention that the surrounding forest adds to the peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photos or quiet reflection.

The water here is freshwater, and the setting is fairly natural, with minimal commercial development—something that adds to its authenticity. It’s a popular stop for those wanting a nature escape that’s both visually stunning and calming.

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Transition to Lekuresi Castle

After about 45 minutes at the Blue Eye, you’ll hop back into the van for a short drive to Lekuresi Castle. The castle is perched atop a hill, about half an hour from the Blue Eye, offering a different kind of wow factor—a panoramic view of the coast and islands.

Visiting Lekuresi Castle

Once at the castle, you’ll explore the ruins of what was once a strategic fortress. The site itself is quite atmospheric, and the views are what make it special. Many visitors mention the “stunning vistas”—you can see Saranda below, the vast Butrint Lagoon, and even the island of Corfu on clear days.

The castle isn’t just about history; it’s about the visual experience. If you’re a fan of scenic overlooks, this is likely to be a highlight of your trip. The ruins are accessible, although the terrain can be uneven, so keep that in mind if mobility is a concern.

Wrapping Up

The tour ends back at the starting point around three hours after it begins, making it a perfect quick escape. The entire experience is designed to maximize natural beauty and breathtaking views, all with minimal fuss.

Is It Worth It? Analyzing the Value

For the price—covering transportation, entry tickets, and a guide—the tour offers a lot of value. We think it’s especially suitable for travelers who want a bite-sized adventure without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The small-group aspect means more personal attention, and the guide’s insights help you appreciate each site.

However, if you’re someone who prefers spending more time at each location or is very interested in history and culture, you might find this tour a bit too brief. Also, since there’s no included food or hotel pickup, you’ll want to plan those separately.

The reviews are generally positive, with many praising the stunning views and friendly guides. Some mention that the Blue Eye is a “must-see” spot, and that the views from Lekuresi Castle are “breathtaking”.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
• Start time: Check availability for morning departures—morning light often makes for better photos.
• Group size: Limited to 15, so it’s a more intimate experience.
• Cost: The value depends on how much you enjoy quick scenic trips—you’re paying for convenience and access.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain, water, and a camera.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven surfaces.
• Language: Guides operate in English and Italian.
• Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—easy to be flexible with your plans.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want a quick but impactful outing from Sarandë. It’s especially good if your main goal is to see stunning natural and scenic views without spending the whole day traveling or sightseeing.

If you’re a fan of photo opportunities and are drawn to nature with minimal crowds, you’ll love the Blue Eye. Meanwhile, history and panoramic lovers will appreciate the views from Lekuresi Castle, even if only from a distance.

That said, if you’re traveling with mobility challenges or prefer deep dives into history or local culture, you might want to consider other options or longer tours. Overall, it’s a straightforward, well-organized way to enjoy some of Albania’s most picturesque spots.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, transportation from and to the meeting point is included, so you don’t need to worry about hiring a car or other arrangements.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting in the morning. Check availability for specific times.

What’s the best time of day to go? Morning trips are common, and the light often makes photos better—plus, it’s less crowded.

Can I visit the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle on my own? Yes, but this tour simplifies logistics, includes entry tickets, and offers insights from a guide, which can enrich the experience.

Is it suitable for children? The tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are there any hidden costs? Not usually. The tour price covers transportation, tickets, and guide. Food and hotel transfers are not included.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and your camera. There’s minimal shade at some sites.

How steep or difficult is the terrain? Lekuresi Castle involves walking on uneven surfaces; the Blue Eye is more accessible but still involves some walking on natural paths.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I have enough time at each site? For most travelers, yes. It’s designed as a brief, scenic snapshot rather than a full exploration.

In the end, if you’re after a beautiful, straightforward trip that packs in some of Albania’s best views and natural wonders, this tour is a solid choice. It’s not overly elaborate, but it hits the highlights—perfect for a quick escape from Sarandë.

You can check availability for your dates here: