Gjirokastra – The Stone City & Blue Eye – The Monument of Nature.

Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye are two captivating destinations that showcase Albania’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The ‘Stone City‘ of Gjirokastra boasts a well-preserved historic center, with its impressive castle and charming traditional houses, inviting visitors to explore the country’s past. Nearby, the Blue Eye spring emerges from a subterranean cave, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Whether you’re drawn to the architectural marvels of Gjirokastra or the natural wonder of the Blue Eye, these remarkable sites promise to leave a lasting impression. There’s more to discover about these incredible destinations, so let’s delve deeper.

Key Points

• Gjirokastra, an ancient city in Albania, is known as the ‘Stone City’ for its well-preserved historical center with stone buildings and cobblestone streets.
• The Gjirokastra Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into Albania’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit destination.
• The Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring with crystal-clear, turquoise waters, is a natural monument that emerges from a subterranean cave.
• The private tour from Sarande includes an air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, and all necessary fees and taxes, providing a comprehensive way to explore these landmarks.
• The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a Badge of Excellence, making it an excellent choice for a memorable exploration of Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye.

Destination Overview

Gjirokastra, known as the ‘Stone City,’ and the Blue Eye, a natural monument, are the two prominent destinations featured in this tour.

Gjirokastra is an ancient city with a well-preserved historical center, boasting stone buildings, cobblestone streets, and the impressive Gjirokastra Castle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into Albania’s rich cultural heritage.

The Blue Eye, on the other hand, is a stunning natural spring with crystal-clear, turquoise waters that emerge from a subterranean cave. It’s a unique natural wonder that has captivated visitors with its mesmerizing beauty.

Together, these two destinations promise an unforgettable exploration of Albania’s remarkable landmarks and natural landscapes.

Tour Details

This tour offers a private excursion from Sarande, allowing visitors to explore the renowned landmarks of Gjirokastra and the captivating Blue Eye spring.

You’ll visit Skenduli House, a well-preserved historic residence, and the impressive Gjirokastra Castle, which boasts breathtaking views.

At the Blue Eye, you’ll witness the striking turquoise-colored spring, a natural monument formed by a underwater cave.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary fees and taxes, and a professional guide to provide commentary throughout the journey.

While meals and alcoholic beverages aren’t included, you can easily enjoy them on your own during the tour.

With 105 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is an excellent choice for a memorable exploration of Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye.

Inclusions

What does the tour include?

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all necessary fees and taxes, and a professional guide to provide commentary throughout the journey. Travelers can expect pick-up service from any address in Sarande, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure.

The guide will share insights about the historical significance and cultural heritage of the sites visited, enriching the overall experience. While meals and alcoholic beverages aren’t included, the tour provides a comprehensive package that covers the essential elements for exploring Gjirokastra and the Blue Eye spring.

This well-rounded offering allows visitors to focus on seeing the wonders of these remarkable destinations.

Exclusions

Aside from the inclusions, the tour doesn’t cover meals, alcoholic beverages, or the train ticket to access the Blue Eye spring.

Travelers will need to budget for their own food and drinks during the tour. The train ticket to Blue Eye is also an additional expense, as it isn’t included in the tour package.

While the private vehicle, professional guide, and all fees and taxes are provided, guests will need to plan and pay for these other items separately. This allows for flexibility and personalization, as travelers can choose their own dining and transportation options to suit their preferences and budgets.

Review Highlights

The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with 105 reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence from Viator travelers. The tour has an excellent rating, reflecting the exceptional experience it provides.

Stunning natural scenery, with the breathtaking Blue Eye spring being a major highlight.

Knowledgeable and engaging guides who bring the history and culture of Gjirokastra to life.

Smooth and comfortable transportation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Exploring Gjirokastra

Nestled amidst the rugged mountains of southern Albania, Gjirokastra’s awe-inspiring stone architecture captivates visitors as they explore the well-preserved historic city center.

Wandering through the winding cobblestone streets, travelers encounter the iconic Gjirokastra Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched atop a hill overlooking the city. Within the castle walls, visitors can marvel at the impressive armory and museum, offering a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Beyond the castle, the Skenduli House, a grand 18th-century residence, showcases the traditional Ottoman-era architecture that defines Gjirokastra’s unique character.

With its charming old town and rich historical significance, this ‘Stone City’ promises an immersive cultural experience for all who venture here.

Discovering Blue Eye

Beyond Gjirokastra’s historic charm, travelers can discover Blue Eye, a natural marvel nestled in the rugged terrain of southern Albania. This iconic spring is renowned for its mesmerizing azure hue and remarkable depth. Visitors are captivated by the sheer beauty of this natural phenomenon, which has become a symbol of Albania’s natural wonders.

The spring’s allure lies in its crystal-clear waters that seemingly emerge from the earth’s core, creating a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere.

The surrounding lush, forested landscape provides a serene backdrop, enhancing the spring’s tranquil ambiance.

The site’s designation as a protected area ensures the preservation of this natural treasure for generations to come.

Exploring Blue Eye is a truly unforgettable experience that complements the historic charm of Gjirokastra.

Booking Information

One can easily book this private tour from Sarande, with pick-up available at any address in the city. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, professional guide, and all necessary fees and taxes. While meals and alcoholic beverages are not included, visitors can opt to purchase train tickets to explore the Blue Eye spring independently.

Tour Details	Inclusions	Exclusions
Private tour from Sarande	Air-conditioned vehicle	Meals
Explore Skenduli House and Gjirokastra Castle	All fees and taxes	Alcoholic beverages
Visit the iconic Blue Eye spring	Professional guide included	Train ticket in Blue Eye
Pick-up at every address in Sarande

This tour offers a comprehensive way to discover the highlights of Gjirokastra and the stunning Blue Eye spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Gjirokastra?

The best time to visit Gjirokastra is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, with fewer crowds and lower prices. Summers can be quite hot and humid, while winters can be cold and rainy.

Is It Safe to Explore the Gjirokastra Castle on My Own?

Exploring Gjirokastra Castle on your own can be safe, but it’s best to join a guided tour. The castle has steep stairs and uneven terrain, so a guide can provide insights and ensure your safety throughout the visit.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Blue Eye Spring?

You can bring your own food and drinks to the Blue Eye spring. However, it’s best to consume them outside the immediate area to avoid littering and maintain the natural beauty of the site.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance or Can I Just Show Up?

It’s recommended to book the tour in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak season. However, you may be able to show up and join a group tour if there are spots open on the day.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The inclusions listed cover the key costs of the tour. However, travelers should expect to pay for any meals, alcoholic beverages, and train tickets to the Blue Eye spring that are not explicitly included in the tour package.

Recap

Gjirokastra, the ‘Stone City,’ and the Blue Eye spring are two remarkable destinations in Albania that offer a captivating blend of cultural heritage and natural wonder.

Visitors can explore the historic architecture of Gjirokastra and marvel at the mesmerizing turquoise waters of the Blue Eye, creating an unforgettable travel experience.

These unique sites showcase Albania’s rich history and the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes.