Sarande: Blue Eye with Traditional Food and Wine Tasting

Sarande: Blue Eye with Traditional Food and Wine Tasting — An Honest Look

If you’re exploring the Albanian coast and want a mix of natural beauty, local flavors, and a dash of culture, this tour promises quite a bit. It’s marketed as a private experience that takes you from Saranda to the famous Blue Eye spring, with stops for tasting traditional wines, raki, and regional snacks. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s worth considering if you’re after a blend of sightseeing and authentic tasting experiences.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with local culinary delights — the kind of simple, genuine experiences that make travel memorable. We also appreciate that it’s private, meaning you get a more tailored and relaxed vibe, with guides who speak your language and keep things smooth. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some visitors report a lack of detailed explanations during the tasting part, which might leave you wanting a bit more context or storytelling. Still, if you’re into leisurely exploration and good company, this trip could suit you well.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who love natural sights paired with local food and drink, and don’t mind a bit of flexible, self-directed activity around the Blue Eye. If you’re traveling with friends or want a private outing that’s not just about rushing through sights, it’s a great pick. Just keep in mind that it’s not a full-on vineyard tour, and some parts are more casual than others.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful natural spring: The Blue Eye delivers a unique visual experience with its striking blue waters.
• Authentic food and wine: Enjoy a tasting of local wines, traditional raki, and regional snacks, often in a rustic setting.
• Comfortable transportation: The drive in a climate-controlled vehicle is smooth and scenic, with short stops to break up the journey.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are friendly, well-spoken, and provide useful information, enhancing the overall experience.
• Flexible sightseeing: You’re free to explore the Blue Eye at your own pace, with options like walking or train.
• Mix of nature and culture: This is a balanced tour for those who appreciate natural beauty and local traditions.

The Experience Itself

Starting the Day – Pickup and Drive

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Saranda or Ksamil, in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle. From there, the drive to the Blue Eye takes around 40 minutes and offers a chance to enjoy the lush Albanian countryside. We loved how relaxed the start was, with friendly guides sharing tidbits about local life — a good way to settle into the day.

Reaching the Blue Eye – The Main Attraction

Once you arrive at the Blue Eye, you’re greeted with one of Albania’s most photographed natural wonders. The spring’s water is a vivid, deep sapphire blue, constantly swirling and creating mesmerizing patterns. You’ll have about 80 minutes here, which is enough time to take photos, soak in the views, or walk around the area.

Some reviews mention the option to see it by foot or by train, which adds a bit of variety. It’s a good idea to bring your camera and comfortable shoes, as the area can be quite scenic but also uneven.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Countryside Winery – Tasting Time

After the Blue Eye, the tour continues with a visit to a local countryside winery — a highlight for many. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local wines and traditional raki, served with an assortment of fresh homemade sides. The food is crafted from regional recipes and emphasizes organic, local ingredients.

One reviewer described the experience as being left to help yourself, with staff leaving carafes of wine and spirits at the table. While this casual approach is charming, it also means you won’t get a formal vineyard tour or detailed explanations about the wines — a small downside if you’re interested in deep wine knowledge.

The wines are described as very local and authentic, and the raki is notably strong. This part of the tour is relaxed and provides good value, especially if you’re into tasting different local varieties and enjoying hearty snacks.

Final Stop – Saranda or Ksamil

After the tasting, the group is driven back to Saranda or Ksamil, with about 80 minutes allocated for this part of the trip. Some reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and attentiveness, making sure everyone’s comfortable and informed along the way.

Transportation and Timing

The tour’s length is about 5 hours, which makes it a manageable half-day outing. The drive in a private SUV or jeep means you get a bit of adventure along the way, especially if you opt for the train or scooter at the Blue Eye, which adds a fun local flavor.

Timing is flexible depending on availability, but it’s worth checking the start times to fit into your day. The driver and guides are well-organized, and pickup from your hotel is seamless, saving you from navigating public transport or taxis.

Cost and Value

The tour costs around 70+ euros per person, which might seem a little steep at first glance. But when you factor in hotel pickup, private transport, entrance fees, and the wine tasting, it’s a fair deal, especially for those wanting a curated experience. Keep in mind that the tasting portion is casual, and the lack of detailed vineyard explanation might be a minor disappointment for some — so consider your interest in wine and food when booking.

Practical Tips

• Bring your camera — the Blue Eye is a must-photograph spot.
• Wear comfortable shoes — some walking is involved, especially if you explore around the Blue Eye.
• Stay hydrated — especially if you’re tasting stronger spirits like raki.
• Check the start times — availability varies, so plan ahead.
• Consider your interest in wine and food — the tasting is casual, so if you’re looking for a structured tour, it might not be perfect.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a straightforward, relaxing day out that combines spectacular scenery with authentic Albanian flavors. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives and casual tastings, with a bit of flexibility for spontaneous exploration. If you’re after a formal vineyard tour or more in-depth explanations, you might find this a bit light on details. But if you appreciate genuine, local encounters, it’s a worthwhile way to spend a half-day around Saranda.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What are the pickup options?
They’ll pick you up from any hotel in Saranda or Ksamil — just wait in the lobby about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and tastings.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera — the scenery is stunning — and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the Blue Eye.

Can I choose how to get to the Blue Eye?
Yes, you can opt for walking, train, or even a motor scooter, depending on the options available at the time.

Are the wines and spirits local?
Yes, the wines and raki are made at a local vineyard, adding authentic Albanian flavors to your tasting experience.

Is there any explanation given during the wine tasting?
Some reviews mention that staff leave you to help yourself, with no detailed explanation given about the wines or spirits.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour’s relaxed pace and scenic stops make it suitable for most travelers, but keep children in mind for the walking parts.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to combine the natural wonder of the Blue Eye with a taste of local Albanian life, this tour could be just the ticket. It offers a comfortable, intimate experience without the fuss of large group tours, emphasizing genuine scenery and authentic flavors. The guides seem friendly and knowledgeable, and the scenery — especially the Blue Eye itself — is truly worth a visit.

However, if your primary goal is a detailed wine tour or a fully guided experience, you might want to explore other options. But for a laid-back, scenic, and flavorful outing, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s a good choice for travelers who value local authenticity, beautiful landscapes, and simple pleasures in an Albanian countryside adventure.

Note: This review is based on available information and reviews; check with the provider for current details and availability.

You can check availability for your dates here: