Sunset Serenity in Saranda: Forest Springs & Castle

If you’re dreaming of catching an unforgettable sunset in Saranda, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a peaceful blend of nature, history, and panoramic views, all away from the daytime crowds. While it’s not an all-day adventure, it packs in some truly special moments, especially if you love quiet scenic spots and sunset vistas.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances natural beauty with cultural highlights. First, the walk through the shaded forest near the Blue Eye offers a cool, refreshing break from the heat and a more intimate feel of Albania’s lush greenery. Then, the breathtaking view from Lekursi Castle at sunset is likely to stay with you long after the tour ends. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it’s a relatively short tour at five hours, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure or more active exploration, this might feel a bit limited.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate tranquil scenic spots, enjoy stunning sunset views, and prefer a relaxed pace. It’s especially good for those who want a taste of Saranda’s best viewpoints but aren’t looking for a hectic schedule. It’s also perfect if you’re after a peaceful, picture-perfect moment to close out your day.

Key Points

• Beautiful sunset views over Saranda, Corfu, and the coastline that make for perfect photos.
• Peaceful forest walk near the Blue Eye offering cool shade and fresh springs.
• Hidden viewpoints loved by locals that aren’t crowded or touristy.
• Comfortable transport with a local guide sharing stories and secret spots.
• Ideal for sunset lovers and those seeking tranquility away from daytime crowds.
• Short and manageable tour — great if you want a scenic break but not a full-day commitment.

Let’s talk about what makes this tour interesting. First off, it’s designed to give you a more relaxed, less touristy experience of Saranda’s natural and scenic wonders. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the sunset from Lekursi Castle, which offers sweeping views of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and the distant island of Corfu. Watching the sun dip below the horizon here is a moment that many reviews praise for its tranquility and beauty.

The itinerary starts with a pickup from your hotel in Saranda, making it convenient. After about 40 minutes in a comfortable van, you’re transported to the Blue Eye region. This is not just a tourist stop but a chance to enjoy the cool woods, fresh springs, and the sense of quiet that comes from walking through a shaded forest. We love this kind of experience — it’s a break from the buses and crowds you might encounter elsewhere.

The Blue Eye area is often praised for its natural beauty, and the tour’s guide shares insights into the region’s secrets. Visitors mention the walk as refreshing, with some noting it’s a perfect photo spot for capturing lush greenery and natural springs. The 75-minute stop includes sightseeing, free time for photos, and a guided tour, so it’s enough to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Next, the journey continues to Lekursi Castle, a well-loved local spot. The 45-minute drive delivers scenic views along the way, and the final stop at the castle is where most people’s cameras come out. Arriving just before sunset, the castle’s panoramic terrace offers a peaceful place to soak in the views, take photos, or simply enjoy the stillness of the moment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Special About the Forest Walk Near Blue Eye?

This walk is often highlighted as a highlight, especially because it’s shaded and cool, offering a peaceful escape. The Springs near Blue Eye are natural and pristine, with hints of local legends and stories that make the experience richer. Visitors mention the quiet corners ideal for relaxing or snapping photos away from the crowds. It’s a chance to connect with nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

The reviews emphasize that it’s not a strenuous walk but more of a gentle stroll, perfect for most visitors. We found that the guide’s stories and insights add a layer of local flavor, making the moment more than just sightseeing.

Discovering a Hidden Viewpoint

Locals love this cliffside spot, yet it remains a secret for most travelers. It’s a short detour that offers dramatic views of the inland mountains and the Ionian Sea. It’s an ideal place for photos—think rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and endless blue sea stretching into the horizon. Visitors note that this spot offers a sense of quiet discovery, away from the crowds found at more popular viewpoints.

The Star of the Show: Lekursi Castle at Sunset

The final highlight is watching the sunset from Lekursi Castle. This isn’t just a tourist trap — it’s a genuine spot loved by locals for its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views. As the sun dips, the sky turns golden, casting a warm glow over Saranda, with distant Corfu adding to the picturesque scene.

Many reviews express how special this moment is. One reviewer said, “Watching the sunset here felt like a private show — just me, the view, and the fading light.” It’s a calm, almost meditative experience, perfect for ending the day on a peaceful note.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The entire experience lasts around five hours, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. The pickup from most hotels in Saranda is included, which simplifies logistics. Given the short duration, it’s a good pick if you want a scenic escape without committing to a full day.

The transportation is a comfortable van, and the guide speaks English, sharing stories and local legends along the way. The stops are well-paced, with enough time to take photos, enjoy the scenery, and relax. The walk in the forest is easy and shaded, so comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Pricing-wise, this tour offers good value for those seeking scenic views and peaceful moments. It’s not a budget option for long days but offers quality time in beautiful settings at a reasonable price.

What Does the Tour Not Cover?

If you’re craving adventure or extensive exploration of Saranda’s history and culture, this isn’t the tour for you. It’s focused on natural scenery and sunset views, so if your interests are more archaeological or cultural, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, since it’s a sunset tour, it’s best suited for clear evenings—bad weather can mean less spectacular views.

For families, the walk and sightseeing are manageable, but with toddlers or very young children, you might want to consider the pace. The tour involves walking, so strollers might be less practical in some areas.

If your idea of a perfect evening involves peaceful moments, panoramic vistas, and soaking in the natural beauty of Saranda, this sunset tour checks many boxes. It’s especially appealing if you love photos, quiet environments, and the magic of watching the sun set over the sea.

While it doesn’t include a full day of sightseeing or adventurous activities, it offers a well-balanced, restful experience with some of the best viewpoints around Saranda. The combination of forest serenity, hidden viewpoints, and the iconic sunset from Lekursi Castle makes it a memorable, picture-worthy outing.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic tranquility and want a gentle, unhurried way to experience Saranda’s natural beauty. If you’re after a laid-back, visually stunning, and local-authentic experience, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking, including in the forest and around the castle. While the walks are gentle, strollers might be less practical, but most with moderate mobility should be fine.

How long is the entire tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, starting with pickup in Saranda and ending back there. The stops include Blue Eye, a scenic viewpoint, and Lekursi Castle.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, along with a camera to capture the views. Sunscreen and water are advisable for personal comfort, especially if the weather is warm.

Is the sunset view from Lekursi Castle worth the trip?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise the sunset as the highlight, with spectacular panoramic views of Saranda, Corfu, and the coastline.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Will I learn interesting stories during the tour?
Yes, your guide shares stories, legends, and hidden gems of the region, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most, very young children or babies might find the walking challenging. Always consider your group’s mobility and comfort.

In all, this sunset tour offers a peaceful, scenic way to end your day in Saranda. It’s not overly packed with activities but provides enough breathtaking moments to make it memorable. If you’re looking to experience Saranda’s natural beauty and catch a spectacular sunset in a relaxed setting, this is one to consider.

You can check availability for your dates here: