Visit The National Park of Blue Eye & Lekuresi castel

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Gems: A Look at the Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Saranda and want to experience some of Albania’s most eye-catching sights, this tour to Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle might catch your eye. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from the reviews and details, it seems like a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see two very different landscapes—one natural, one historic—all in a manageable half-day trip.

What we really like about this experience is its private nature—you won’t be sharing the sights with large crowds—which can make the day feel more personal and relaxed. Plus, the stunning views from Lekuresi Castle and the nature-filled serenity of Blue Eye are definitely highlights that can add a memorable touch to your stay. That said, one thing to consider is that the tour’s timing appears tight, with some reviews mentioning slight mix-ups with pickup times, so punctuality might be an aspect to watch out for.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a cost-effective, no-fuss experience that offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s equally suitable for travelers who enjoy nature and history, and even those traveling with family members, thanks to its easy accessibility and manageable pace.

Key Points

• Private Tour: No other travelers will join, creating a more intimate experience.
• Breathtaking Views: From the turquoise waters of Blue Eye to the vistas from Lekuresi Castle, scenic beauty is front and center.
• Flexible Timing: About 3 to 4 hours long, offering a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of these highlights.
• Affordable Price: At roughly $28.50 per person, you’re paying for convenience and scenic sights—good value if you’re on a budget.
• Family-Friendly: The stops are suitable for all ages, with no strenuous activity involved.
• Good for Nature & History Lovers: Combines natural beauty with historical ruins, appealing to diverse interests.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Blue Eye — Nature’s Surprise

The tour kicks off with a visit to Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), about 30 minutes from Saranda. This spot is a natural wonder, where a spring gushes out of Mali i Gjërë mountain, creating a crystal-clear, turquoise lake that’s quite unlike anything else in the region. We love the way this spring seems to emerge directly from the earth—it’s like nature’s own fountain of youth, only more colorful. The water’s vivid hue and the surrounding greenery make it an Instagram magnet.

The reviews emphasize the unexpected beauty of Blue Eye, with one traveler noting, “We truly enjoyed our visit and tour,” praising the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. The admission fee is included in the tour price, so you get to focus on absorbing the scenery without worrying about extra costs.

What you can expect: You’ll probably spend about an hour here, soaking in the views and learning about the spring’s origins. Be prepared for a bit of a walk, but nothing strenuous—just enough to explore the area comfortably.

Pros and Cons: The natural setting is truly captivating, making it worth the short drive from Saranda. However, some reviews mention that the pick-up process can be slightly chaotic, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re punctuality-sensitive or expecting a seamless experience.

Next Stop: Lekuresi Castle — Panoramic Views & History

After the natural wonder, the tour moves to Lekuresi Castle, perched on a hill above Saranda. Although only the walls remain, the panoramic views of Saranda, the Ksamil Islands, and the surrounding peaks are spectacular. Visitors often comment that the view alone justifies the visit—it’s a perfect spot for photos and enjoying a quiet moment above the bustling town.

Inside, there’s a small restaurant where you can grab a drink or a snack, and soak in the vistas. The castle’s free admission makes it accessible, and wandering around the stone ruins offers a peek into the past. Wear appropriate footwear, as some uneven terrain is involved.

What you’ll experience: Expect roughly an hour here, taking in the sights, snapping photos, and maybe relaxing at the cafe. Several reviews highlight that the views from the castle are a major highlight, with one reviewer mentioning they enjoyed sampling local cuisine with a view.

Potential Downsides: During busy seasons, the approach and navigating the ruins might require some care—like wearing sturdy shoes—since there’s some brush and rocks around. Also, during peak times, ordering at the small restaurant might involve some waiting or communication with staff.

The Value and Practical Aspects

This tour is listed at about $28.50 per person, which makes it a solid budget choice—especially considering the private nature and included fees. When you compare it to other options, such as more elaborate multi-site trips or ship excursions, this offers a quick, personalized experience without breaking the bank.

The air-conditioned vehicle adds a layer of comfort, especially if the weather is hot or if you’re traveling with children. The tour lasts roughly 3 to 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure that leaves plenty of time to explore Saranda or relax afterward.

From reviews, we see that guides make a notable difference—knowledgeable, respectful guides can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a more engaging experience. Beth, who praised her guide Jona, noted that she was very informative and a delight to spend the day with. Good communication from the provider also seems to help set expectations and smooth out any logistical hiccups.

Some Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

While the experience overall gets good marks, the reviews do highlight some minor issues. Several travelers mention pick-up hiccups, with one noting that their scheduled 9:30 pickup was delayed until almost 10:00, causing some inconvenience. Communication can sometimes be a challenge if the driver or guide speaks limited English, but this doesn’t seem to significantly diminish the overall experience.

Plus, since this is a private tour, you won’t have a large group to share the experience, but this also means that the schedule might be more flexible or susceptible to minor delays. The inclusiveness of all fees and taxes simplifies the pricing, but it’s good to remember that lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a quick, scenic escape from Saranda without the fuss of complicated arrangements. It’s well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who value a personalized experience and want to see two of Albania’s most notable sites efficiently. If you’re on a tight budget but want a memorable day seeing natural beauty and historic ruins, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Visit The National Park of Blue Eye & Lekuresi Castle tour offers a lot for a modest price. The natural spectacle of the Blue Eye, combined with the sweeping views from Lekuresi Castle, can genuinely enhance your Albanian experience. The personalized, private aspect means fewer crowds and more opportunities to take in the scenery at your own pace.

While some logistical hiccups and communication issues might crop up, the overall value, scenery, and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile outing, especially if you’re after a low-stress, scenic trip. It’s best suited for those who want to combine nature and history without spending a whole day or breaking the bank.

If you love discovering scenic spots with a touch of local history and prefer a flexible, intimate tour, this could be exactly what you’re looking for. Just keep an eye on timing and be prepared for a casual but scenic adventure in southern Albania.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the stops are generally accessible, and the tour suits most ages. It’s a relaxed pace with no strenuous activity involved.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, along with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. However, lunch is not included.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience, so you won’t share the vehicle or stops with other travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for the uneven terrain at the castle. Bring water and snacks if needed, as lunch isn’t included.

If this sounds like your kind of day—simple, scenic, and budget-friendly—it’s definitely worth considering. The views, the history, and the chance to escape into Albania’s natural beauty make it a tour to remember.