Sarande: Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle Sunset Tour

Planning a trip to Sarande in Albania? If you’re after a mix of nature, history, and unforgettable views, this tour offers a well-balanced way to experience both natural wonders and stunning sunset scenery. From the moment we read about it, what caught our eye were the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Eye spring, the ease of round-trip transportation, and the breathtaking sunset from Lekursi Castle. But be aware, the train to Blue Eye doesn’t operate from November to April, meaning you’ll be walking a short distance instead.

One of the biggest draws is the comfort and convenience—everything is organized with a friendly, knowledgeable guide who makes sure you get the most out of each stop. Plus, the opportunity to learn about Albania’s history while enjoying scenic spots makes this a truly enriching experience. The only consideration? It’s a 4-hour tour, so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure or something very intense, you might find it a bit light. Still, for most travelers wanting a taste of natural beauty and history in a short time, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate well-organized outings with plenty of photo opportunities, stunning vistas, and expert guidance. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer comfort, value, and a flexible schedule without missing out on iconic sights.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes the journey relaxing and hassle-free.
• Expert guides provide insightful stories and historical context.
• Stunning scenery at both the Blue Eye spring and Lekursi Castle sunset.
• Flexible options for walking or swimming, depending on the season.
• Ideal for short trips that combine nature and history.
• Limited swimming to protect the spring’s purity and due to safety reasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off from a centrally located meeting point in Sarande, making it easy to find. You’ll hop into a climate-controlled van with an English-speaking driver and guide, ready to transport you through some of Albania’s most iconic sights. After a scenic drive, about 30 minutes long, you’ll arrive at the Blue Eye spring. During the warmer months, you might get the chance to dip your toes or even take a quick swim—though swimming is discouraged year-round to preserve the spring’s purity and for safety, given the water’s depth and cold temperature.

The walk from the parking area to the Blue Eye itself takes roughly 15 minutes, along a well-maintained path that offers beautiful views of the lush surroundings. Many reviews mention how peaceful and photogenic the Blue Eye is, with its turquoise waters contrasting sharply against the greenery. Visitors often comment on how the water’s clarity is mesmerizing—some even describe it as “otherworldly”. Several reviewers, like Beth, emphasize how the guide’s knowledge enhanced the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

After enjoying about 80 minutes at the Blue Eye, the group heads back into the van for a 30-minute drive uphill to Lekursi Castle. Perched on the hill, the castle’s ruins offer panoramic views of Sarande, Ksamil, the Bistrica River, Lake Butrint, and the Ionian Sea. As the sun begins to set, this spot becomes particularly magical. Yvette describes the sunset as “breathtaking,” and many rave about the perfect photo opportunities from this vantage point.

The tour wraps up with a 35-minute drive back to Sarande, leaving you with plenty of time to reflect on your day of scenic beauty, history, and cultural insights—all in just four hours.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start: The journey begins at the OpenTour Albania office in Sarande, a convenient meeting point. The guide, Ledjon, is praised for his friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge, as numerous reviews highlight.

Van Ride: The 30-minute drive takes you through the scenic Albanian countryside, offering glimpses of rural life and lush landscapes. The vehicle is comfortable, with air conditioning—a blessing in the warmer months.

Train to Blue Eye: During the spring and summer, a short 6-minute train ride adds a touch of novelty. However, from November to April, the train doesn’t operate, so you’ll walk around 17 minutes to reach the spring. Reviewers appreciate how flexible the schedule is, whether riding the train or walking.

Blue Eye Stop: Expect about 80 minutes here. You can explore the edge of the turquoise water, take photos, purchase a coffee, or just relax in this peaceful environment. Some mention how the water invites contemplation, but swimming is discouraged for safety and preservation.

Drive to Lekursi Castle: After the Blue Eye, the van takes you uphill for about 30 minutes. The journey itself offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, setting the perfect scene for sunset photos.

Lekursi Castle Sunset: Arriving around sunset, the castle’s ruins offer a wonderful vantage point. Reviews mention the glow of the setting sun casting a beautiful light over the Ionian Sea and nearby islands. The 35-minute stop provides ample time for photos, soaking in the scenery, and enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Return Journey: The final 12-minute drive back to Sarande concludes the tour, leaving you with fantastic memories and plenty of stunning images.

The Experience Providers and Pricing

Operated by OpenTour Albania, this tour offers a mix of guided commentary, scenic stops, and comfortable transportation. The price reflects the value, considering the round-trip transportation, entry fees, and expert guidance. Many reviews mention how well-organized and friendly the service is—Ledjon and his team are often commended for their helpfulness and knowledge.

The tour lasts around four hours, with availability depending on the season. It’s perfect for travelers who want a snapshot of Albania’s natural beauty and history without committing to an all-day outing. Since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to meet at the designated starting point—though it’s centrally located and easy to find.

What We Love About This Tour

One standout feature is the expert guidance. Reviewers like Leanne and Allan appreciate Ledjon’s friendly, informative approach, which makes the experience more meaningful. His stories about the sites, combined with the scenic views, give you a genuine feel for Albanian culture and history.

The scenery is truly breathtaking. Travelers often describe the Blue Eye as “otherworldly,” with its stunning turquoise waters that seem to glow. Many reviews, such as Kait’s, mention how peaceful and quiet the Blue Eye is outside peak season—perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the tranquility.

The sunset from Lekursi Castle is another highlight. The views over Sarande, Ksamil, and the Ionian Sea are spectacular, especially as the sky turns shades of orange and pink. As Yvette notes, it’s “breathtaking,” and many others echo that sentiment.

Value for money is another plus. With all included—transportation, guide, entry fees, and scenic stops—the tour offers a lot for a reasonable price. Reviewers like Francisca and Jackie emphasize that the experience exceeded expectations, especially with the photo opportunities and knowledgeable guides.

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Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is generally praised, some travelers might find the timing limiting. Since swimming isn’t encouraged, those hoping for a full water-based experience might be disappointed. Plus, the 4-hour duration means it’s a quick taste rather than an all-day adventure.

If you’re visiting outside the season (November to April), be prepared for a walk instead of a train ride to the Blue Eye. The walk takes about 17 minutes, which is manageable but could be tiring in hot weather or for those with mobility concerns.

Lastly, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated location in Sarande. Luckily, many reviews mention how easy this is to find, as it’s centrally located.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick, well-organized snapshot of Albania’s natural beauty and history. It suits those who appreciate scenic views, photo opportunities, and informative guides without the need for a lengthy commitment. It’s also a good choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy a comfortable, guided outing.

If you’re after a mix of nature, culture, and sunset views, and you value the convenience of transportation and expert narration, this tour ticks all those boxes. However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or swimming in the Blue Eye, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point in Sarande. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting location.

Can I swim at the Blue Eye spring?
Swimming isn’t recommended to preserve the spring’s purity and for safety reasons, as the water is cold and deep.

What if train service isn’t available?
From November to April, the train doesn’t operate, so you will walk approximately 17 minutes from the parking area to the spring.

How long do we stay at each site?
You’ll have around 80 minutes at Blue Eye and 35 minutes at Lekursi Castle, providing ample time for photos, soaking in the views, and exploring.

Is this tour suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and the walk to Blue Eye may be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, water, a T-shirt, and a reusable water bottle are recommended. Costumes or footwear for swimming aren’t necessary since swimming is discouraged.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
Yes, train rides only operate from May to October. During colder months, expect to walk or arrive by alternative means.

Final Thoughts

The Sarande Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle Sunset Tour provides a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and scenic vistas—all packed into just four hours. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning locations, and easy transportation makes it a standout option for those visiting southern Albania.

If your goal is a hassle-free way to see a breathtaking spring and enjoy a memorable sunset with fantastic photo ops, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially recommended for travelers who prefer small group experiences, expert storytelling, and stunning views without the need for an entire day out.

For anyone wanting to experience Albania’s highlights in a relaxed, organized manner, this tour hits the mark without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for the walk (or train ride) and come ready to capture some truly incredible sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: