From Sarandë: The Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle

Travel experiences that blend natural wonders with historic sites can be truly memorable — and this tour offers just that. Designed for those wanting a quick yet meaningful escape from Sarandë, it combines nature, history, and spectacular views into a compact 3-hour outing. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a scenic break, this trip offers a lot of value.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see the remarkable Blue Eye, with its crystal-clear waters and green surroundings, and to enjoy panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle overlooking Sarandë and Corfu. These highlights are genuine, authentic experiences that don’t require hours of travel or hefty entrance fees.

A small downside is the limited duration — at just three hours, this is a quick overview rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re craving a detailed hike or historical deep dive, you might find this a little rushed. However, for those with limited time or as a first taste of southern Albania, it hits the right note.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature and history without complicated logistics. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning scenery but prefer a manageable, well-organized outing.

Key Points

• Spectacular natural sight: The Blue Eye’s crystal waters and lush green surrounds make it a must-see.
• Breathtaking views: Lekursi Castle offers panoramic vistas of Sarandë, Butrint Lagoon, and Corfu.
• Convenient and well-organized: Includes transportation, entry tickets, and a guide, offering good value.
• Small group experience: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal touch.
• Flexible scheduling: Check availability for different start times; cancellation is easy with 24 hours’ notice.
• No food or hotel pick-up: Be prepared to meet at a designated point and arrange your own meals.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review: The Best of South Albania in Just 3 Hours

This tour manages to pack in some of the most compelling sights around Sarandë, making it a practical choice for travelers with limited time or those wanting a snapshot of Albanian natural beauty and history.

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll begin at Rruga Skënderbeu 61, on the outskirts of Sarandë. The tour uses a comfortable van, which takes you on a roughly one-hour ride into the countryside. The transportation aspect is straightforward, with all tickets and guides included, removing the hassle of planning separate tickets or navigation.

Visiting the Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Gem

The highlight for many travelers is the Blue Eye. As your guide explains, this natural water source is notable not only for its vivid blue waters but also for its incredible depth — over 50 meters deep, with water so clear you can see the bottom. The surrounding greenery and freshwater pools create a peaceful, almost magical setting.

One recent review praises this stop, saying, “We loved the way the water was so crystal clear, and the view was like something out of a postcard.” The water’s striking color, especially contrasted against the lush forest, makes it a perfect photo opportunity. The tour’s timing allows for enough time to take in the scenery and snap some photos without feeling rushed.

The Journey Through Albanian Nature

Traveling through the forest en route to the Blue Eye offers a chance to appreciate the lush greenery of southern Albania. This part of the trip is as much about experiencing the landscape as it is about the specific sites. The drive itself is scenic, with options for travelers to enjoy the fresh air and perhaps spot local flora and fauna.

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Lekursi Castle: A Historic Hilltop Fortress

Only about half an hour from the Blue Eye, the next stop is Lekursi Castle. Perched on a hillside, it’s a spot that combines history with some of the best panoramic views in the area. From the ruins of the castle, you’ll see Sarandë’s coastline, Butrint Lagoon, and the Greek island of Corfu looming in the distance.

The castle’s remains include the walls of a village, which adds a sense of authenticity and history. Although the site isn’t a massive fortress, the views from the hilltop are what make it special — travelers often mention how the scenery is breathtaking, especially on a clear day.

Return and Reflection

After about 45 minutes at Lekursi, the van takes you back to the starting point, completing a compact yet fulfilling trip. The small group size means you can ask questions and enjoy a more personal experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers transportation, entrance tickets, and a guide — a good deal considering the sights. However, it does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, nor food and drinks, so plan accordingly. You might find it easiest to arrive at the meeting point early or arrange your own transfers.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from past participants is generally positive, with many praising the views and the ease of the organization. One reviewer notes, “The views from Lekursi Castle are outstanding, and the Blue Eye’s water is so clear — it’s worth every minute.” Some mention that the tour is quick, but that’s part of its charm for those short on time.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of south Albania’s highlights, especially if they’re based in Sarandë. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a taste of nature and history. If you’re looking for a relaxed, small-group outing with well-organized logistics, this tour offers excellent value.

People who love spectacular views and natural beauty will find this tour particularly rewarding. However, those seeking a detailed exploration or accessible for mobility-impaired travelers should consider the short duration and terrain.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable van from the meeting point, with entry tickets and a guide.

Can I join if I’m staying outside Sarandë?
The meeting point is at Rruga Skënderbeu 61. If you’re nearby, you can easily join, but hotel pickup is not included.

How long do we spend at each site?
You’ll spend about an hour at the Blue Eye and around 45 minutes at Lekursi Castle, with travel time between stops included.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments, as some terrain at the sites might be challenging.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s best to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Remember, food and drinks are not included.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning for your trip.

How scenic are the views from Lekursi Castle?
The views are widely praised as stunning — overlooking Sarandë, Butrint Lagoon, and the island of Corfu, especially on clear days.

This tour balances natural beauty with a touch of history, offering travelers a short but memorable escape into some of Albania’s most striking sights. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a taste of the region’s best without committing to a full-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: