Sarande: Blue Eye & Lekuresi Tour w/ Wine Tasting

Exploring Sarande through this guided tour offers a snapshot of the region’s natural beauty, historical sites, and local flavors. While it’s a compact trip, it packs in a lot, giving you a taste of what makes southern Albania special.

What we love most about this experience is the stunning panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle, the chance to see the mesmerizing Blue Eye spring, and of course, the opportunity to sample traditional Albanian wines. The tour is well-organized and accessible, making it suitable for most travelers. However, one thing to keep in mind is the walk from the Blue Eye entrance, which is about 1.5 km — so good shoes are a must.

This tour suits travelers craving a blend of nature, history, and culture in a short time frame. It’s especially appealing for those who want a guided experience with insights from knowledgeable guides, and who enjoy sampling local food and wine in a scenic setting.

Key Points

• Stunning viewpoints from Lekuresi Castle offer a great photo opportunity.
• Blue Eye provides a chance to witness Albania’s natural mineral springs and crystal-clear waters.
• Wine tasting at a local winery showcases regional viticulture and culinary traditions.
• The organized transportation ensures comfort and convenience within a 4-hour window.
• Guided insights enhance understanding of each site’s history and significance.
• The experience is ideal for those who appreciate a well-rounded, cultural mini-adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins conveniently at the Port of Sarande, where pickup is included, making it hassle-free for travelers arriving by ferry or cruise. It’s a short drive to the first stop, with air-conditioned transportation ensuring comfort on the way between sites. The total duration is about 4 hours, with availability subject to demand — so checking the schedule in advance is wise.

Visiting Lekuresi Castle

Your first stop is Lekuresi Castle, perched atop a hill just outside Sarande. The guided tour typically lasts about 45 minutes, giving plenty of time to soak in panoramic views of Sarande, the surrounding islands, and the coastline. Reviewers mention the serene ambiance and historic walls that make this site memorable. They also appreciate the photo opportunities, especially when the guides share stories about the castle’s past.

One reviewer, Olamide, noted, “Our guide was so knowledgeable about the tour and accommodating,” highlighting the quality of local insights. Expect to learn about the strategic importance of the castle while capturing sweeping shots of the landscape. It’s a great way to start the tour with an elevated perspective.

Discovering the Blue Eye

Next, you’ll descend to Syri i Kaltër, or The Blue Eye. The walk from the entrance to the spring is about 1.5 km, which might be a consideration for those with mobility concerns. The spring itself is a stunning display of deep blue waters bubbling from a mysterious karst hole over 50 meters deep. Reviewers love how crystal-clear and vibrant the water appears, making it an Instagram-worthy highlight.

While some may find the walk a minor inconvenience, most agree that the visual payoff is worth it. The site’s natural beauty is captivating, and the cooler mountain air makes it a welcome break from the coast’s heat. Visitors mention the bubbling water and mysterious depths as a point of curiosity and wonder.

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Visiting a Local Winery

The final part of the tour takes you to a small winery in the countryside, where wine tasting is paired with local food. Expect around 75 minutes of tasting, which includes traditional Albanian wines and some light snacks or tapas. The guide will likely explain the wine-making process and the importance of viticulture in the region.

One reviewer described this as an “insightful” experience, noting that they got to see how wines are made and enjoyed tasting wines that are typical of Albania’s wine culture. This part of the tour offers an authentic glimpse into local life, with the chance to try wines that you might not find elsewhere.

Additional Stops and Insights

The itinerary also includes a visit to The Old Pharmacy — a historic site that adds a cultural dimension to the journey. Although less detailed in the provided information, it’s a chance to explore more of Sarande’s heritage.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers transportation, entry to Blue Eye, and wine tasting, offering good value for a half-day experience. However, travelers should budget extra for any additional food or drinks outside the tasting and bring comfortable shoes for walking.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer highlighted the knowledgeable guides, saying, “Our guide was so accommodating and shared a lot of interesting facts.” They appreciated the personalized attention and the effort to coordinate late arrivals, which adds to the overall smooth experience.

Another noted how the wine tour provided insight into Albanian winemaking, and how they got to see everything they ate grow — a neat touch for foodies and curious travelers alike.

Many guests also enjoyed the breathtaking views from Lekuresi Castle and the clarity and color of The Blue Eye. The combination isn’t just visually stunning — it’s also educational and immersive, making this tour a well-rounded introduction to southern Albania.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 4 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
• Meeting Point: Pickup at Sarande Port simplifies logistics.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, especially for the Blue Eye.
• Price: The value is favorable considering the transportation, site entry, and tasting included.
• Languages: Tours are conducted in English, ensuring clear communication.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old due to walking requirements.
• Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a short but diverse trip that combines natural beauty, history, and local culture. If you’re a photo enthusiast, the panoramic views from Lekuresi and the vibrant Blue Eye will be a highlight. Food and wine lovers will enjoy the tasting component and the chance to learn about Albanian viticulture.

Travelers who prefer guided tours with insightful commentary will benefit from the knowledgeable guides, enhancing the appreciation of each site. However, if you’re less mobile or prefer a more strenuous adventure, the walk to the Blue Eye might be a consideration.

This tour offers a balanced, authentic taste of Sarande and its surroundings, making it a memorable addition to any Albanian itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 4 hours, with starting times depending on availability. It’s a half-day outing that fits well into most itineraries.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is provided from Sarande Port and back, making the day comfortable and hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking involved, especially the 1.5 km walk to the Blue Eye. Sunscreen and water are also advisable, particularly on hot days.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, mainly because of walking requirements.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers transportation, entry to Blue Eye, and wine tasting. Additional food and drinks are at your own expense.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging tour that combines Albania’s natural wonders with its historic sites and local flavors, this Sarande experience is a solid choice. It offers a good balance of sightseeing, tasting, and learning in a manageable, four-hour window.

Perfect for culture seekers, nature lovers, and foodies alike, this tour provides an authentic taste of the region’s scenic beauty and culinary traditions. With knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops, you’ll leave with beautiful photos, new insights, and, hopefully, a bottle of Albanian wine to remind you of your trip.

Whether you’re short on time or want a gentle introduction to Sarande’s highlights, this tour delivers a genuine, memorable Albanian experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: