Sarande: Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle Sunset Tour

Sarande: Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle Sunset Tour — A Detailed Look

If you’re planning a trip to Sarande in Albania, chances are you’ve come across the popular Blue Eye spring and Lekursi Castle sunset tour. We’ve looked into it—and it’s a well-loved excursion with high praise, boasting a 4.8 out of 5 rating from over 450 reviews. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the feedback and details we’ve gathered paint a picture of a trip that’s both scenic and relaxed, suitable for travelers who want to see some of the most beautiful sights in the area without fuss.

What really appeals to us about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with a touch of history and great photo opportunities. Plus, the comfortable transportation and local guide expertise seem to make it smooth and informative. A potential downside? The train to Blue Eye doesn’t run from November to April, meaning you’ll need to walk a short distance if visiting during the off-season—something to keep in mind if you’re planning a winter trip.

This tour is ideal if you want a balanced, hassle-free experience that hits two of Sarande’s top attractions: the famous Blue Eye spring and the panoramic sunset from Lekursi Castle. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate good value and want a guide who shares insights into Albania’s history along the way.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes for an easy day without the hassle of navigating on your own.
• Beautiful scenery at both the Blue Eye spring and the castle offers fantastic photo ops.
• Knowledgeable guides add context and enrich your understanding of Albania’s natural and cultural sites.
• Timing is flexible, with about 4 hours to soak in each location.
• The walk to Blue Eye is manageable but requires a bit of planning during the off-season when the train isn’t operating.
• Great value for the price considering transportation, guided insights, and entry fees are included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Blue Eye Spring

The highlight of this tour is, without a doubt, Blue Eye, an incredible natural sinkhole celebrated for its intense, turquoise waters. We love how the tour includes a scenic one-way train ride (or a walk if during the off-season), which adds a charming touch to the experience. The 15-minute walk from the train station is a pleasant way to stretch your legs and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Once at Blue Eye, you’ll have around 80 minutes to explore. This time feels just right—plenty for wandering along the edge of the water, dipping your toes into the cool, clear waters, snapping photos, or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The water is so pristine and inviting, but most guides recommend against swimming to help preserve its clarity and safety due to the depth and cold temperature.

Travelers consistently mention the stunning beauty of Blue Eye. One reviewer describes it as “so peaceful and quiet,” emphasizing that it’s a perfect spot for some tranquil reflection or picture-taking. The guide’s commentary often includes insights into the spring’s unique formation, which adds an educational element to the visit.

Reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides who keep things interesting without rushing. Many also appreciate that there’s enough time to enjoy the setting without feeling hurried. As one reviewer puts it, “Blue Eye was so beautiful with no rush,” which really captures the relaxed pace of the stop.

The Journey to Lekursi Castle

After your Blue Eye visit, the tour moves on to Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The castle’s round towers evoke a sense of history, and the panoramic vistas include sights like Corfu Town, Ksamil, the Bistrica River, Lake Butrint, and the Ionian Sea.

The timing here is ideal as the tour coincides with sunset, which many describe as a truly memorable experience. Watching the sun dip behind the horizon while perched above Sarande is just the kind of moment that sticks with you. The 35-minute stop allows for plenty of time to take photos, soak in the view, and appreciate the golden hour.

Multiple reviews mention how breathtaking the sunset views are, with one traveler calling it “breathtaking” and another noting it’s “a perfect way to end the day.” The scenic setting of the castle makes it one of those places that’s worth the trip just for the vistas.

The guides do a good job of sharing historical tidbits about the castle, enhancing the experience beyond just the view. We especially like that the timing is flexible enough for everyone to enjoy the sunset comfortably.

The Logistics and Practicalities

This tour lasts around 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip. The round-trip transportation from Sarande’s city center is a big plus—your guide picks you up and drops you off at a convenient location, saving you the hassle of organizing your own transport.

The van is described as comfortable and climate-controlled, which is especially nice during the summer months or hot days. The tour includes the Blue Eye entry fee, but note that train tickets are included only from April to October—from November to April, you’ll walk about 17 minutes from the parking lot to the spring.

Price-wise, it’s considered good value, especially given that it covers transportation, entry fees, a guide, and plenty of photo opportunities. Travelers often comment that the experience feels well-organized and worth the cost.

The tour is not designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, mainly because of the walking involved, particularly during the off-season when you won’t have the train option.

What’s the Experience Like?

The experience is relaxed and scenic. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, offering helpful insights into Albania’s natural and cultural sites. We love how many reviews mention the helpfulness of the guides, often going above and beyond—some even helping with photos or offering local recommendations.

The scenery at both Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle is genuinely stunning. Many say their photos don’t do the sites justice, and the sunsets from the castle are consistently described as “breathtaking.” The peaceful atmosphere of Blue Eye, especially during less crowded times, adds to its allure.

Travelers also appreciate the timing, with enough time at each stop to explore leisurely, take pictures, or simply enjoy the view. For those who love nature, panoramic vistas, and golden sunsets, this tour hits all the right notes.

The value for money is frequently highlighted in reviews, considering the included transport, guide, and entry fees. Plus, the comfortable van ride makes the whole experience even more pleasant.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Right for You?

This tour is a strong pick for nature lovers who want to see one of Albania’s most famous natural spots without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also ideal if you’re after spectacular sunset views and enjoy a relaxed, guided experience. The friendly guides and smooth logistics make it suitable for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day, especially if you’re new to the area.

If you’re someone who values good value and beautiful scenery, you’ll find this trip well worth it. The included transport, guide insights, and the chance to see two of Sarande’s top attractions make it a worthwhile outing.

However, if you’re traveling during the winter months, remember that the train to Blue Eye doesn’t operate from November to April, so you’ll need to plan for a walk instead. Also, if you have mobility concerns, consider the walking involved during the off-season.

FAQ

Is the Blue Eye spring suitable for swimming?
Most guides discourage swimming because of safety reasons, the depth, and to preserve the spring’s clarity. You can dip your feet, but swimming isn’t recommended.

How long is the visit at Blue Eye?
You’ll have about 80 minutes to enjoy the spring, take photos, walk along the edge, or relax by the water.

What if I visit outside the train season?
From November to April, the train doesn’t run, so you’ll need to walk about 17 minutes to reach Blue Eye.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transport in a comfortable van from Sarande’s city center.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Guides speak English and Albanian, ensuring clear communication and good insights during the tour.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues due to walking requirements.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, water, a T-shirt, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Remember, swimming isn’t encouraged, and there’s no provision for drinks in the vehicle.

In essence, this tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, historical views, and ease of access. It’s perfect for those who want to see the best of Sarande’s outdoor wonders without fuss, all while enjoying friendly guidance and unforgettable sunset vistas. If that sounds appealing, it’s likely to be a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: