From Sarandë: The Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle

If you’re looking for a quick yet memorable escape from the lively streets of Sarandë, this tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and historic sights. While it only lasts around three hours, you’ll get a real taste of Albania’s lush landscapes and centuries-old architecture. Surprisingly, it’s a tour that balances well-planned logistics with moments that truly wow.

What we love about this experience is the chance to witness the Blue Eye’s mesmerizing, crystal-clear waters, the serene walk through dense greenery, and the sweeping panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle. It’s a manageable outing that fits into a busy schedule but still leaves plenty of room for awe. One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, so you’ll want to plan around that. Still, this trip suits anyone craving a taste of nature and history in a compact, organized package.

Who will enjoy this tour? It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience of South Albania’s highlights without long hikes or complex logistics. Perfect for those short on time but eager to see iconic sights, especially if you’re curious about natural phenomena and ancient architecture.

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Key Points

Stunning natural sight: The Blue Eye offers a chance to see crystal-clear, over-50-meter-deep waters in a lush setting.
Beautiful panoramic views: Lekuresi Castle provides sweeping vistas of Saranda, Butrint Lagoon, and even the Greek island of Corfu.
Convenient and organized: Small group tours with transport, tickets, and a guide make for a smooth experience.
Authentic insights: Guides share local knowledge, enhancing the experience beyond just sightseeing.
Limited time commitment: It’s a brief but impactful trip perfect for a half-day adventure.
No food or hotel pickup included: Plan accordingly, especially if you want a full day of exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Looking for more options in Sarande? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Off in Sarandë

The tour begins at Rruga Skënderbeu 61, a central location in Sarandë. Being in a familiar spot means you can arrive easily, ideally 15 minutes early to settle in and get ready for the adventure. The small group size—limited to 15 participants—ensures a more personal experience, allowing for questions and interaction with your guide.

Comfortable Transportation

A van takes you to the Blue Eye, which is about an hour’s drive away. This part of the journey allows you to relax and take in the changing scenery—think lush forests, rolling hills, and the occasional glimpse of the coast. Reviewers appreciated the clarity of the transportation arrangements, as it helps keep the experience smooth and stress-free.

Discovering the Blue Eye

The highlight for many is the Blue Eye itself—a striking water spring that draws visitors with its vivid blue hue. The guide will lead you to one of South Albania’s most photographed spots, where you’ll stand over a turquoise pool, over 50 meters deep. The water is so transparent that you can see the bottom clearly, which amazes visitors.

One reviewer noted, “The water’s clarity is incredible—you can see right to the bottom, which is over 50 meters deep. It’s a surreal place.” The surrounding green forest adds to the sense of tranquility, making it a perfect spot for photos or just soaking in the natural beauty. The experience is both visual and tactile—many visitors find the freshwater cool and refreshing.

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Moving on to Lekuresi Castle

After about 45 minutes at the Blue Eye, the journey continues to Lekuresi Castle, located roughly half an hour away. From the hillside, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Saranda, the lagoon, and Corfu in the distance. The castle itself is an archaeological site with ruins of a village bearing the same name, adding a historical layer to the visit.

Guides often point out the significance of the site, and many reviews mention how the views are genuinely breathtaking. The castle’s strategic location means you get a wide-angle perspective of the area’s natural and urban landscapes, ideal for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

There's plenty more to explore in Sarande

The Return Journey

After exploring Lekuresi, the van heads back to Sarandë, with the tour concluding at the original meeting point. The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, making it an efficient way to enjoy some of South Albania’s highlights without a full-day commitment.

What You Can Expect and Why It Matters

The Blue Eye

This natural wonder is a photographer’s dream. Its unique blue color is an optical illusion caused by mineral deposits, and the fact that you can see such depth adds to its allure. Reviewers mention how the water’s transparency creates an almost otherworldly feel, making it a must-see. The cooling freshwater provides a refreshing break, especially on warm days.

Lush Green Forest

The drive through the dense forest enhances the feeling of escaping into nature. Many travelers appreciated the serene atmosphere, which contrasts sharply with the busier parts of Sarandë. It’s a great opportunity for nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful retreat.

Lekuresi Castle

The ruins of Lekuresi Castle, with its sweeping views, offer a perfect photo backdrop and a chance to ponder Albania’s past. The site’s elevation means you’ll get a broad view of the coast and islands, perfect for history buffs and sunset admirers alike. Some reviews mention specific ruins and the sense of stepping back in time, adding depth to the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Duration

The tour’s transportation is well-organized, with a comfortable van taking you between locations. The entire trip lasts about 3 hours, with the Blue Eye stop lasting around an hour, and Lekuresi about 45 minutes. This pace allows for plenty of time to take photos and enjoy each sight without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Guides

Limited to 15 people, the small group setting fosters a more intimate experience. Guides speak English and Italian, and many reviews highlight their knowledge and friendliness. They often share interesting tidbits about the sites, which adds to the value beyond just sightseeing.

Cost and Value

While the price isn’t specified here, the tour includes transportation, entry tickets, and a guide, which simplifies planning and offers good value for a half-day trip. Remember, food and hotel pickup are not included, so bring snacks or plan to eat afterward.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, mainly due to walking around the castle ruins and possibly uneven terrain at the Blue Eye. Be prepared for some walking and uneven paths.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

“The Blue Eye is just as stunning as the photos suggest. I loved the clarity of the water and the peaceful surroundings,” one visitor shared.
Another mentioned, “The panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle are simply breathtaking, especially at sunset. It’s worth the short drive.”
Several reviewers appreciated the organized nature of the trip and how the guides made the experience informative yet relaxed.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion from Sarandë is a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a short, impactful trip that combines natural beauty with historical charm. It caters especially well to those looking for stunning photo opportunities and panoramic vistas without committing to a full-day tour. The small group and guided format make it suitable for visitors who value personalized attention and local insights.

If you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply eager to see iconic sights like the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle, this tour offers a balanced mix of both in a manageable timeframe. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a taste of South Albania’s natural and cultural highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a quick yet rewarding outing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Rruga Skënderbeu 61 in Sarandë.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable van is part of the package.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, entry tickets, and a guide.

Do I need to arrange my own food?
Yes, food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning a meal afterward.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this tour.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or limited walking ability.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak both English and Italian.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, sun protection, and water are recommended for comfort and safety.

This tour offers a lovely snapshot of South Albania’s natural and historic treasures, all in a well-organized package that’s perfect for a half-day escape.