From Tirana,Durres:Sarande, Blue Eye, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle

From Tirana, Durres: Sarande, Blue Eye, Ksamil, Lekursi Castle offers an appealing way to experience Albania’s breathtaking coast and natural beauty. For around 12 hours, you’ll travel through charming villages, relax on pristine beaches, and marvel at natural wonders, all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. This tour is especially attractive for those who enjoy scenic drives, historic sites, and swimming in crystal-clear waters—all packed into one day.

What makes this experience stand out are two particular highlights. First, the Blue Eye spring is truly a sight to behold—its intense shades of blue and green make it a natural kaleidoscope you won’t forget. Second, the Ksamil Islands provide an ideal spot for a refreshing swim, with turquoise waters that invite you to relax and take in the beauty of the Albanian coast.

A potential consideration is the long day itself, which involves a fair amount of driving and walking. If you’re someone who prefers a more leisurely pace or has mobility issues, this might be a bit demanding. Nevertheless, for travelers looking for a comprehensive taste of southern Albania in one trip, this tour hits many key highlights efficiently.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, natural wonders, and historic sites, and who are comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing. It’s ideal if you’re eager to see Albania’s coastal beauty without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Beauty: The Blue Eye spring is a must-see, offering unforgettable shades of blue and green in a lush setting.
• Beach and Water: Ksamil’s beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing in turquoise waters.
• Historical Vista: Lekursi Castle provides panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea, along with a glimpse into its historic past.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transport from Tirana, Durres, or Golem makes planning simple.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 8 people) ensure a more personalized experience.
• Full-Day Commitment: Expect a 12-12.5 hour itinerary, so pack comfortably and be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Albanian Riviera Tour

Starting off – Easy and Comfortable Transportation
The tour kicks off early, with pick-up options from Tirana, Durres, or Golem, making it accessible regardless of where you stay. The guide, usually a bilingual, professional leader, keeps the journey engaging with local insights. As we headed out in a comfortable vehicle, the coastal views started to unfold, with olive groves and small villages dotting the landscape, giving us a taste of rural Albania’s charm.

Ksamil: Paradise on the Beaches
Our first stop was Ksamil, which consistently earns praise for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Travelers often comment how the sand is soft and inviting, and how the waters are so transparent that snorkeling here feels effortless. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the water felt like a bath—so warm and calm.” Free time here allows you to soak up the sun, take a swim, or just relax with a cold drink on the sand. The cost of swimming and relaxing here is included in the tour, making it excellent value considering the opportunity to enjoy such stunning scenery.

Saranda’s Vibrant Atmosphere
Next, we arrived in Saranda, a lively coastal town with a mix of modern cafes and historic sites. The waterfront promenade is bustling with activity, and from the top of Lekursi Castle, the views over Saranda and the Ionian Sea are spectacular. The castle itself is a short walk from the town center, and exploring the ruins gives you a sense of the area’s history. Many travelers love the panoramic vistas and the chance to learn about the fortress’s past. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the scenery.

The Blue Eye Spring – Nature’s Masterpiece
One of the tour’s most striking moments is the visit to the Blue Eye. The spring, with its deep, intensely blue waters, looks almost surreal. The lush greenery surrounding it enhances the vivid colors, and it’s easy to see why this site is considered one of Albania’s natural wonders. The guide often shares interesting facts, and we found that the shades of blue are more vibrant than pictures can show. Walking around the spring and gazing into its depths leaves a lasting impression. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busy beaches and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Optional Swimming and Exploration
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a dip in the spring’s cool waters, although many prefer to admire it from above. The short walk around the area is well-maintained, and it’s a great place to enjoy some quiet reflection amid nature.

Return via Lekursi Castle
As the day winds down, we visited Lekursi Castle for a final panoramic view. The ruins are accessible, and the sweeping vistas over Saranda and the sea make it a perfect spot for photos. Several reviewers mention how the views from the castle are breathtaking and worth the brief hike. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty and history.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

• “The Blue Eye was the highlight, with colors so vivid, I couldn’t believe such a place exists.”
• “Ksamil’s beaches are perfect for a quick swim, and the water is so clear, it feels like you’re floating in a giant swimming pool.”
• “Lekursi Castle offers the best view of Saranda and is a must-see for photos.”
• “The day is quite long, but the stops are well-spaced, and the guide keeps things interesting.”
• “I appreciated the small group size—it felt more personal, and we had time to ask questions.”

Practical Details and Value

The tour’s inclusion of transport, a professional guide, and entrance fees makes it a financially sensible choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day. The only extras—lunch, drinks, souvenirs—are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy a meal in Saranda.

At around 12 hours, this is a full-day adventure. The early start ensures you make the most of daylight for each stop, but it does mean a long day for those who prefer more relaxed sightseeing. The small group setting (up to 8 participants) allows for a more intimate experience, enabling better interaction with the guide and more flexibility.

The price represents good value considering the transportation, guide service, and the diverse highlights visited. This tour is perfect for those who want to see the essence of Albania’s Riviera without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple trips.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to see Albania’s stunning coastline and natural wonders in one day. It’s especially suitable for travelers who love scenery, history, and swimming, and who prefer a guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning. The combination of scenic drives, beautiful beaches, and natural springs makes it a memorable introduction to the Albanian Riviera.

While the long day may be tiring for some, the variety of sights, the small group size, and the knowledgeable guide ensure that it’s both enjoyable and informative. If you’re after a balanced mix of nature, history, and coastal charm, this tour delivers at a good value.

Ideal for first-timers, adventure seekers, or those wanting to maximize limited time in Albania. Just pack your swimsuit, a hat, and plenty of curiosity.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 to 12.5 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening.

What locations are visited?
Stops include Ksamil for beaches, Saranda for city views, Blue Eye spring for natural beauty, and Lekursi Castle for history and panoramic views.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tirana, Durres, or Golem is included, making logistics simple.

Do I need to bring anything specific?
It’s recommended to bring swimming gear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Can I buy food during the tour?
Lunch, drinks, and snacks are not included, but there are opportunities to purchase food in Saranda.

Is the group small?
Yes, limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure a more personal experience.

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

You can check availability for your dates here: