Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle Tour

Exploring Albania’s Natural and Historic Gems: The Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle Tour

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip from Saranda that combines nature, culture, and history, this tour might just be worth considering. We’ve come across this experience, and it seems to offer a nice balance of stunning scenery, local flavors, and panoramic views — all packed into about six hours.

What really caught our eye? First, the chance to see the Blue Eye, a captivating natural spring and UNESCO site — it’s a sight that tends to leave a lasting impression. Second, the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Albanian meal at Mesopotam, which is said to be both delicious and authentic. Yet, as with any tour, there are things to think about, like the fact that transportation to the Blue Eye involves a 30-minute drive, and some visitors mention that the tour might not be the best fit for travelers with mobility issues.

This experience seems best suited for curious travelers who appreciate natural beauty and local cuisine without wanting to spend too much time on logistics. It’s also good for those who want a guided overview of Saranda’s surroundings rather than a more intensive, day-long adventure.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery at the Blue Eye, perfect for photo enthusiasts.
• Authentic Albanian cuisine at Mesopotam, offering three different lunch menus.
• Panoramic views and historical insights at Lekursi Castle.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Comfortable transport with air conditioning, making the day more pleasant.
• Time management—each stop gives you enough time to enjoy without feeling rushed.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re drafting your plans for a trip around Saranda, this tour offers a solid combo of highlights that most visitors find worthwhile. It’s not a full-day expedition, but a thoughtfully curated six-hour outing that hits key spots without feeling overwhelming.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at 9 am from the Tea Tours office in Saranda. One of the first things to note is the transportation — a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away from the town for the day. The drive to the Blue Eye is roughly 30 minutes, which is a manageable amount of time to sit back and prepare for the scenic moments ahead.

Visiting the Blue Eye

The Blue Eye is a natural spring that’s become a symbol of the region. Its vibrant blue waters and the intricate landscape make it a favorite for photographers. During the visit, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore the UNESCO-protected park, walk around, take pictures, and soak in the atmosphere.

Many reviews praise the Blue Eye as a must-see — “The colors are incredible, and it’s so peaceful,” one visitor remarked. However, some mention that if you’re elderly or have mobility issues, the walk might be a bit strenuous, especially since there’s an optional train to transport visitors to the main site — something to consider if you want to avoid walking distances.

Lunch at Mesopotamagrotourism

After the Blue Eye, you’ll head to the village of Mesopotam, a short 10-15 minute drive away. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Albanian meal at the local agrotourism restaurant. The tour offers three menus to cater to different tastes, so you can pick what suits you best.

The reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of the food, with visitors describing it as “a hearty, flavorful meal with local ingredients.” You’ll have about 1.5 hours for lunch, which is ample time to relax, savor your meal, and maybe even chat with locals or fellow travelers. Keep in mind, the menus are pre-selected, so if you have specific dietary requirements, it’s good to inquire beforehand.

Exploring Lekursi Castle

On the return trip to Saranda, your last stop is at Lekursi Castle. The castle offers panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian coast, making it a prime spot for those iconic travel photos. The guided tour here lasts about 30 minutes, during which you’ll learn about the castle’s history and its significance to the area.

Visitors consistently mention that the views from Lekursi are spectacular, often citing it as “a perfect ending to the day.” If you’re a picture taker, you’ll love the opportunity to capture the city, the sea, and the surrounding landscape from above.

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What We Appreciate and What to Consider

This tour does a good job of balancing different interests: natural beauty, cultural insights, and local cuisine. The guides are informative, providing historical and cultural context throughout the day, which enriches the experience. The cost, at $112 per person, seems reasonable given the inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and a full meal.

That said, the duration at each spot is enough to get a sense of the place but not enough for deep exploration — which is fine for most travelers looking for highlights rather than long stays. The group size is not specified, but guided tours like this generally keep things manageable, making it easy to ask questions and engage with the guide.

One potential downside is that the Blue Eye involves visiting a natural spring with some walking involved, so travelers with limited mobility or young children may find it less accessible. Also, there’s mention of an optional train in the Blue Eye park, which could be a helpful option for some, but it might come at an extra cost or require prior planning.

Value for Money

For $112, you get a well-rounded experience that covers scenic, historic, and culinary highlights. If you’re traveling on a tight schedule and want a guided overview without the hassle of planning each stop, this tour offers convenience and a pretty good snapshot of the region’s key attractions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of nature and culture who appreciate guided tours to fill in historical context. It’s perfect if you want to see the Blue Eye in a relaxed setting, enjoy a hearty local meal, and end with stunning views from Lekursi Castle.

In terms of group size, it’s probably best for those who prefer a structured itinerary without the stress of self-guided travel. It’s not particularly suited for travelers with mobility restrictions or young children who might find some walking challenging.

If you’re someone who loves photo opportunities, enjoys regional cuisine, and wants a convenient way to experience some of Albania’s most photogenic spots, this tour checks plenty of boxes.

FAQs

Is the Blue Eye spring open for visits year-round?
Yes, the Blue Eye is a natural spring available for visits as part of the tour. The tour operates with entrance tickets included, so weather or seasons don’t typically close the site.

How much time will I spend at each location?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye, 1.5 hours at the Mesopotam restaurant for lunch, and around 30 minutes at Lekursi Castle. The drive between sites is relatively short, so the timing is designed to maximize your experience without rushing.

Can I choose a different menu at Mesopotam?
The tour offers three menus based on preference, but they are pre-selected. If you have dietary restrictions or special requests, it’s best to inform the guide in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, the tour could work for families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and short walks. However, it might not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues due to walking distances involved at the Blue Eye.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, particularly in warmer months.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
The price includes transportation, entrance tickets, and lunch. An optional train at the Blue Eye park might be extra if you choose to use it, so check with your guide if you want to avoid walking.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
The tour currently features an English-speaking guide. If you require another language, it’s best to confirm when booking.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is structured but offers some free time at each stop to explore or relax, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Will I have enough time to take photos?
Absolutely. Each stop is designed to give you ample time for photos, especially at the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle.

Overall, this tour from Saranda offers a well-organized way to see some of Albania’s most scenic and historic sights without overloading your day. It’s perfect if you’re after a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and good food — all within a manageable timeframe. Just keep in mind the walking distances and plan accordingly if you have mobility concerns.

You can check availability for your dates here: