From Gjirokastra: Discover the Blue Eye Wonder

If you’re exploring southern Albania, a trip to the Blue Eye Spring might just be a highlight of your journey. This tour promises a scenic drive, a gentle walk through nature, and a chance to relax by one of Albania’s most beautiful natural sights. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gone through the details and reviews to give you an honest look at what you can expect.

What really stands out are the stunning views of the spring’s vibrant blue waters and the relaxed pace of the whole experience. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy authentic local food makes it a well-rounded day out. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the walk involves some natural trail terrain, so it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility challenges. This tour seems ideal for travelers wanting a taste of nature combined with a little local culture—perfect if you have about six hours to spare and love scenic, laid-back adventures.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural scenery with a highlight on the Blue Eye’s striking waters
• Relaxed 6-hour itinerary including transportation, walking, and lunch
• Easy walking trail of roughly 2 km, suitable for most but not all
• Authentic Albanian cuisine featuring fresh fish and local ingredients
• Cost is moderate at $93 per person, providing a well-rounded experience
• Guided tour available in multiple languages, with flexible timing and cancellation options

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Worth Considering

We liked how this tour combines scenic beauty and cultural authenticity in a manageable day trip. The drive from Gjirokastra takes you through tranquil countryside, setting the mood for a peaceful escape. The highlight, of course, is standing beside the Blue Eye—a spring famous for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. From the moment you arrive, you’re likely to feel a sense of calm and wonder at nature’s artistry.

The walk to the spring is gentle and about 2 km, which is just enough to enjoy the fresh air and lush greenery without feeling rushed. Many reviews mention that the walk offers “stunning views,” and that it’s “a peaceful, natural setting away from busy tourist spots.” This makes it especially appealing for those wanting a relaxed day filled with picture-perfect moments.

Another aspect we appreciate is the lunch. The tour includes a meal at a traditional restaurant, featuring local specialties including fresh fish from nearby rivers. This is a great chance to taste real Albanian flavors and support local eateries. It’s a simple but delicious way to end your visit, and plenty of reviewers mention how satisfying and authentic the meal was.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Drive

The tour kicks off from “Bulevardi 18 Shtatori,” near the Luftetari stadium in Gjirokastra. From there, your guide will take you on a scenic drive to the Blue Eye, which typically lasts around an hour. The ride itself is part of the charm—watching the countryside roll past, and getting a sense of the local landscape.

The Blue Eye Spring

Once you arrive at the parking area, the real adventure begins with a walk through a natural trail for about 1.5 hours — roughly 2 km each way. While the trail is natural and might involve uneven terrain, it’s generally easy enough for most people. The trail takes you through lush greenery, offering plenty of spots for photos and moments to absorb the tranquility.

The main attraction is the Blue Eye itself, a spring with vivid blue waters that seem to glow against the surrounding greenery. Many reviews mention how “stunning” and “mesmerizing” the view is. You might choose to dip your toes in the cool water, although most travelers find that taking a plunge isn’t allowed most months—something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for a swim.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Relaxation

After soaking in the scenery, you’ll head to a nearby traditional restaurant. The lunch lasts around an hour and promises dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers love the authentic flavors, with some mentioning the fresh fish from local rivers. It’s a laid-back, satisfying meal that completes the day perfectly.

Return Journey

Post-lunch, you’ll make your way back to Gjirokastra, arriving early afternoon. The journey is smooth, and the whole experience is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and full of great memories.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many travelers highlight the stunning views as the main draw. One review describes the sight of the spring as “truly mesmerizing” and another calls it “a highlight of their Albanian trip.” The peaceful walk is also frequently praised for being easy but scenic, with several mentions of the lush surroundings and birdlife.

Comfort and logistics are generally well-managed, with guides providing live location sharing, which eases any worries about getting lost. However, some reviews point out that the trail might be challenging for those with mobility issues, as it involves uneven ground.

The value of the tour at $93 seems fair for what’s included—transport, guide, lunch, and all taxes. Many comments note the good organization and friendly guides who help make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Given the focus on natural beauty and a relaxed pace, this tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes and want a low-pressure day outside the city. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy easy walks and want to avoid overly commercialized attractions. Food lovers will also appreciate the opportunity to taste authentic Albanian cuisine in a local setting.

Because the journey involves walking on natural trails, it’s less ideal for those with mobility issues or anyone expecting a more adventurous, physically demanding activity. Also, since swimming isn’t usually permitted, it’s best for those looking primarily for sights and relaxation rather than water-based activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves easy walking, the natural trail might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges. Keep an eye on your children around the spring’s edge, as safety is important.

How long is the drive from Gjirokastra?
The drive from Gjirokastra to the Blue Eye Spring takes about an hour, offering scenic views of the Albanian countryside.

What should I bring for the walk?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because of the natural trail terrain. Bring water, sun protection, and maybe a camera for those photo opportunities.

Can I swim at the Blue Eye?
Swimmers should note that taking a dip isn’t typically allowed during most months, so plan to enjoy the views and perhaps dip your toes instead.

Is the tour flexible with timing?
Yes, the tour offers flexible timing if the group wishes to stay longer at certain spots, but expect the overall schedule to be roughly 6 hours including transportation and lunch.

How much does the tour cost?
At $93 per person, the price covers transportation, lunch, a guide, and all taxes. It’s a reasonable sum for a day of scenic beauty, good food, and local culture.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a peaceful, visually stunning experience in southern Albania, this Blue Eye day trip from Gjirokastra is a strong contender. It offers a beautiful landscape in a manageable, well-organized package that balances nature, culture, and cuisine. The views are genuinely memorable, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for most travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking adventure or water sports, it excels in providing a calm escape into nature with plenty of opportunities for photos and local flavors. If you’re content to take in a spectacular sight and enjoy a taste of Albanian hospitality, this could be just the outing you’re looking for.

This experience is especially recommended if you want to add a picturesque, tranquil stop to your Albania itinerary without too much hassle. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring some water, and prepare for some natural trail walking. In the end, the Blue Eye’s beauty tends to leave a lasting impression—making this day trip a worthwhile chapter in your Albanian adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: