Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and walking tour & Lekursi Castle

Introduction

If you’re looking for a way to experience some of Albania’s most captivating sights in a single day, the Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and Walking Tour & Lekursi Castle might just be worth considering. This guided adventure combines the thrill of kayaking in the stunning Blue Eye Spring with a scenic walk around Lekursi Castle, offering a taste of nature and history in one go.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour are the expert guides, who bring the area’s stories to life, and the beautiful scenery that makes every photo worth framing. On the downside, it’s a fairly packed half-day, so if you’re after a more leisurely exploration, you might find it a bit rushed. Still, it’s a solid choice for those who want a mix of adventure and sightseeing without spending the whole day out.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy active outings, are interested in natural wonders, and appreciate a little history thrown in. It’s especially good if you want to tick off multiple highlights of the Vlorë County area in a manageable timeframe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes kayaking in one of Albania’s most mesmerizing natural spots
• Offers panoramic views from Lekursi Castle
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the experience
• Efficient 4.5-hour tour with transportation included
• A mix of outdoor activity, sightseeing, and photo opportunities
• Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off in Sarande, where you’ll be picked up and transported comfortably to the first stop: Lekursi Castle. The drive is about 10 minutes in a cozy, air-conditioned vehicle—perfect for relaxing after your journey. Once at the castle, you’ll have about half an hour to explore, take in the sweeping views of the Ionian Sea, and snap some pictures. The castle is a great spot to get your bearings and learn a bit about Albania’s history from your guide.

Next, you’ll hop back into the van for a 30-minute drive to the Blue Eye Spring area. The highlight here is the kayaking adventure in Blue Eye Lake, which lasts roughly 1.5 hours. This part of the trip is perfect for those who enjoy water activities and want a more immersive experience of this natural wonder. The kayak trip is surrounded by untouched nature, giving you a peaceful setting that’s hard to beat.

Reviews highlight how smooth and well-organized the kayaking part is, with plenty of time to enjoy the water and take a refreshing dip. One traveler mentioned, “It was such a hot day it was really nice to be able to kayak to the blue eye and swim in the fresh water.” The fact that all safety equipment is provided adds to the ease and enjoyment of this part.

After kayaking, there’s a break at the Blue Eye Spring for about an hour. This is your chance to relax, capture photos of the incredible turquoise waters, enjoy a coffee, or just soak in the surroundings. The trail leading to the spring is scenic, and your guide will share insights into this mysterious natural site, which is famous for its jaw-dropping clarity and the sense of tranquility it offers.

The tour wraps up with a walk in Muzinë, lasting about 17 minutes, which allows for more exploration and scenery appreciation. Afterward, you’ll return to Sarande by van, closing the loop on this memorable morning or afternoon.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at OpenTour Albania

Your adventure begins at the tour company’s office, where Ledjon, your guide, will be waiting in his signature black hat. You’ll meet your group and get ready for the day ahead.

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Short Van Transfer to Lekursi Castle

A quick 10-minute ride takes you to this hilltop fortress, which offers breathtaking views over the Ionian Sea. Here, you can take photos, learn about the castle’s history, and enjoy some free time to wander around and absorb the scenery.

Visit Lekursi Castle

You get about 30 minutes at the castle. Many reviews praise the views and the guide’s historical insights, making this a worthwhile stop—even if just for the vistas and some relaxed exploration.

Transfer to Blue Eye Spring Area

Another 30-minute drive takes you to the start point of the kayaking adventure. The journey itself is comfortable, and the scenery along the way adds to the anticipation.

Kayaking at Blue Eye Lake

The main thrill of the tour—spending about 1.5 hours paddling in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Eye. It’s a quiet, scenic environment with pristine water, perfect for a dip or just floating and relaxing. Many reviews highlight how fun and well-organized this part is, with some players noting it’s the “huge amounts of fun” to do the slightly more challenging kayaking sections.

Break and Photo Opportunities

Following the paddling, you have an hour at Blue Eye Spring to unwind, take photos, maybe grab a coffee, and appreciate the natural beauty. The photos here are a standout, showcasing the vibrant blue waters that give the spring its name and fame.

Walk to Muzinë

A leisurely 17-minute walk takes you through more scenic landscapes, offering a chance to stretch your legs before heading back to Sarande.

Return Journey

A final 30-minute van ride concludes your tour, bringing everyone back to the starting point with plenty of memories and photo ops along the way.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The tour offers great value considering what’s included: round-trip transportation, all kayak and safety gear, and entry to Blue Eye Spring. Your guide speaks English, which helps make the experience more engaging and informative. Plus, you’ll walk away with beautiful photos of the scenery, which are included in the experience—great for sharing or just savoring later.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to meet at the starting point, OpenTour Albania. It’s an easy location to find, and the guide makes the process straightforward. Also, bring cash for any additional purchases at the bars or gift shops—cards aren’t accepted there.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for walking and clambering
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Camera for capturing scenery
• Water and snacks to stay refreshed
• Swimwear and a small waterproof bag for personal items

Considerations

• Not suitable for people with mobility issues or in wheelchairs
• Be prepared for uneven surfaces and some clambering
• Bring sturdy shoes; flip flops may not be practical
• The tour involves a fair amount of outdoor activity, so dress accordingly

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

Multiple reviews rave about the knowledgeable guides, especially Ledjon, who is praised for his friendly attitude and storytelling. One reviewer said, “Ledjon & Anna were incredibly knowledgeable and full of information,” highlighting how the guides elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Many travelers also mention how well the organization runs, with smooth transitions between stops and plenty of free time to explore and enjoy at your own pace. As one shared, “The scenery was absolutely incredible, don’t miss the slightly harder part of kayaking; it’s huge amounts of fun.”

On the downside, some suggest bringing cash for food and drinks, as card payments aren’t accepted at the bars and restaurants around Blue Eye Spring. Also, a few note that sturdier shoes are advisable due to uneven pathways and potential clambering.

The Sum Up

This Sarande tour combining kayaking at Blue Eye Spring and a scenic visit to Lekursi Castle offers a well-rounded experience of Albania’s natural beauty and history. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy active outdoor outings, stunning vistas, and engaging guides who know their stuff. The tour’s organization and the quality of sights make it a good value, especially for those wanting a taste of both land and water in just a few hours.

While it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues or those preferring a more relaxed, less action-packed itinerary, it’s an excellent choice for anyone keen on adventure with a scenic backdrop. The combination of the peaceful kayak paddle and the panoramic views from the castle makes this a memorable outing, especially for first-timers visiting Sarande.

Overall, if you’re after a mix of natural wonder, history, and a little splash of adventure, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and packed with photo-worthy moments, making it a strong addition to your Albania travel plans.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van is included from the meeting point in Sarande.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, water, swimwear, and a small waterproof bag for personal items. Sunscreen is also recommended.

Can I bring food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, but you can bring cash for purchases at the bars or gift shop at Blue Eye Spring. It’s advisable to carry some snacks and water.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs due to uneven surfaces and walking involved.

How long is the kayaking part?
The kayaking adventure lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to paddle, enjoy the water, and take dips.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best time of day to join this tour?
Starting times vary, so check availability. Generally, mornings or early afternoons work well to avoid the heat and maximize your experience.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging way to see Albania’s stunning Blue Eye and historic Lekursi Castle, this tour is a solid pick. It balances adventure, scenery, and a bit of history — all in a manageable four and a half hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: