From Sarandë: The Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle

Exploring Albania’s Natural and Historic Highlights in a Half-Day Tour

This 3-hour tour from Sarandë offers a compact but rewarding experience, combining two of Albania’s most captivating sights: the Blue Eye spring and the Lekuresi Castle. Led by friendly guides, like Luka or Michela, you’ll start with a scenic drive into the lush greenery of Vlorë County, where the natural beauty of the Blue Eye awaits. Afterward, a short trip to the hillside reveals the ancient ruins of Lekuresi Castle, offering sweeping views over Sarandë, Butrint Lagoon, and even the Greek island of Corfu on a clear day.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances natural wonder with historical intrigue—the Blue Eye’s crystal-clear waters and the panoramic vista from Lekuresi Castle are both photo-worthy and emotionally satisfying. Plus, the fact that transportation, entry tickets, and guides are included makes it quite a good value for a half-day adventure.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration is limited, so if you’re craving a deep dive into each site or prefer a leisurely pace, you might find it a bit brisk. Also, it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, given the walking involved at the sites.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a taste of South Albania’s natural beauty and historic scenery without a full-day commitment. If your time in Sarandë is limited but you still want memorable views and a bit of history, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sight: You’ll witness the Blue Eye’s crystal-clear waters, over 50 meters deep, in a setting that feels almost surreal.
• Panoramic castle views: Lekuresi Castle offers sweeping vistas of Sarandë, Butrint Lagoon, and the nearby Greek island of Corfu—perfect for photo ops.
• Lush scenery and nature: The drive through green forests and countryside makes the journey as beautiful as the destinations.
• All-inclusive convenience: Transportation, tickets, and guides are included, making it easy and straightforward to explore.
• Limited time, rich experience: Although only three hours, the tour packs in two significant sights, giving you a compact but satisfying experience.
• Small group setting: With a max of 15 participants, you’ll enjoy a more personalized atmosphere, and guides can tailor the experience slightly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Sarandë
The tour begins at Rruga Skënderbeu 61, where you meet your guide about 15 minutes before departure. This quick check-in sets a relaxed tone, and you’ll hop into a comfortable van destined for the lush countryside. The drive itself lasts about an hour, giving you your first glimpse of the verdant Albanian landscape—an important reminder that this area is much more than just a seaside resort.

First Stop: The Blue Eye—Nature’s Miraculous Fountain
Arriving at the Blue Eye, you’ll immediately sense its special aura. This natural phenomenon is a freshwater spring that’s over 50 meters deep, with water so clear that you can easily see the bottom. The water’s intense blue color—hence the name—contrasts against the surrounding greenery, creating a scene that looks like a postcard.

What makes this stop particularly memorable is the surrounding green forest that frames the spring, adding a sense of seclusion and untouched nature. We loved how our guide explained the source of the Blue Eye, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.

A few reviewers mention that the water at the Blue Eye is mesmerizing, with some describing it as “almost unreal,” and appreciating how the clarity allows you to see the depths of the spring. You might find, as some guests did, that the water is so crystal clear it feels like peering into a fantasy landscape.

Second Stop: The Scenic Drive and the Ruins of Lekuresi Castle
After roughly 45 minutes at the Blue Eye, you’ll board the van for the short drive to Lekuresi Castle. Perched on a hilltop, the castle dates back centuries and has ruins that tell tales of a bygone era. While the castle itself isn’t fully restored, the real highlight is the breathtaking panoramic views it offers.

From this vantage point, you’ll see across Sarandë’s bay, the lush landscape draining into the sea, and on a clear day, the distant island of Corfu. Many visitors find that the views from Lekuresi Castle are among the best in the region—truly worth the brief walk uphill.

Guests frequently comment that the photo opportunities are excellent, and that the atmosphere feels both historic and peaceful. One review notes, “The ruins are interesting, and the views are simply stunning,” which echoes the consensus that this stop is well worth the effort.

The Return and What’s Included
The tour wraps up with a relaxed drive back to the starting point, usually within 45 minutes. Throughout, your guides provide insights into the sites and Albanian culture, enriching your understanding of what you’re seeing.

The cost covers transportation, the entry tickets to the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle, and a knowledgeable guide. It’s a straightforward package for those who want a well-organized outing without surprises.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a snapshot of South Albania’s natural beauty and historic sites without committing to a full-day tour. It’s especially suited for those with limited time in Sarandë, or for anyone eager to see iconic sights that are easy to access.

If you enjoy scenic landscapes, stunning viewpoints, and a bit of history, you’ll find this tour engaging. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small-group settings where guides can offer personalized attention.

However, if you’re seeking a very leisurely pace or have mobility issues, you might find the walking at the sites a bit challenging. Also, those who want to explore deeper into the history or nature might prefer longer, more in-depth excursions.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers a genuine value—combining two of South Albania’s most photogenic sites into a compact experience. The Blue Eye’s vibrant waters and the panoramic vistas from Lekuresi Castle are memorable highlights that will leave you with plenty of fantastic photos and a sense of having seen the region’s natural and cultural highlights.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their short time in Sarandë without sacrificing quality or authenticity. If you’re interested in seeing iconic landscapes with some historical context, this tour hits the right notes.

While it’s not a deep dive into Albania’s history or environment, it delivers a satisfying snapshot—an ideal choice for a quick morning or afternoon adventure.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including travel time and stops, making it perfect for a half-day activity.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, entry tickets to the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle, and a guide are included.

Can I join if I don’t speak Italian or English?
The tour is conducted in English and Italian, so knowledge of these languages is necessary to fully enjoy the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the walking involved may be a concern for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are meals or drinks provided?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack if desired.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.

Is transportation comfortable?
The tour uses a van, which is generally comfortable for the short drive.

What is the best time to go?
Morning departures are typical, and visiting early allows you to enjoy the sites with fewer crowds.

Will I have enough time to explore each site?
Yes, the schedule is tight but designed for a quick, fulfilling visit to each destination.

This tour offers an efficient, scenic taste of what makes South Albania special—its vivid waters and stunning coastal views. Perfect for those wanting a straightforward, well-organized outing that highlights the region’s natural beauty and historical charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: