If you’re planning to explore the southern coast of Albania, this tour promises a balanced mix of natural beauty, local flavors, and panoramic views. Designed for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, this half-day adventure takes you beyond Saranda’s beaches to uncover some of the region’s most captivating sights.
What we particularly like about this tour: the attentiveness of the local guides who make each stop informative and engaging, and the opportunity to sample some of Albania’s best wines in a peaceful vineyard setting. A potential consideration? You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair bit of walking, especially at the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle. This tour appeals most to those who love scenic landscapes, good stories, and small-group atmospheres that foster genuine connection.
Key Points
- Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants for a more personal touch.
- Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides in English enhance understanding of each site.
- Diverse Highlights: From natural wonders to historical views and wine tasting.
- Flexible & Transparent: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
- Value for Money: Includes entrance fees and a personalized experience.
- Authentic Albanian Flavors: Enjoy local wines and traditional snacks.
An Overview of the Tour’s Appeal
This 4.5-hour tour is crafted for curious travelers who want to see beyond the usual tourist spots and appreciate the natural and cultural richness of southern Albania. The itinerary strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing, making it a well-rounded experience.
Starting from Saranda, you’re whisked away in a private vehicle — often shared with a small group — to explore some of the most photogenic and culturally interesting sites in the region. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of stunning natural scenery, local food and drink, and historical vistas, all curated with care by experienced guides.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tepelene.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
The journey begins with a visit to the Blue Eye, a natural phenomenon renowned for its incredibly clear, vibrant blue waters. This spring, fed by underground currents, seems to glow with an almost surreal hue that has long fascinated visitors. We loved the way the guide explained the geological marvel, giving us context about how the spring works and its significance locally.
Expect a walk through lush greenery surrounding the spring, perfect for photos. The site can get busy during peak hours, but the relatively short one-hour stop allows enough time for photos, a quick walk, and a bit of soaking in the tranquility. The entrance fee is included, making it convenient and hassle-free.
Stop 2: Isak Winery – Wine Tasting and Albanian Snacks
Next, you’ll head to Isak Winery, a charming family-owned vineyard that embodies the welcoming spirit of Albanian hospitality. Here, we were treated to an 80-minute guided wine tasting, sampling four types of local wines including raki and limoncello. The guide shared insights into local winemaking traditions, making each sip more meaningful.
The wine tasting comes with traditional Albanian snacks, such as fresh cheese, olives, and homemade bread — simple yet flavorful. The peaceful vineyard setting offers a fantastic backdrop for relaxing and learning about regional wines, which are often overlooked compared to more famous European countries. The winery charge is 15 euro per person, covering the basic menu.
More Great Tours NearbyStop 3: Lekursi Castle – Sunset Views
As the day winds down, your journey culminates at Lekursi Castle, perched high above Saranda. This historic fortress provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the colorful town below. The castle’s terrace is an ideal spot to watch the sunset, with hues of orange and pink painting the sky.
This part of the trip is about savoring the quiet beauty of the scenery and capturing memorable photos. The 45-minute visit includes a guided tour, giving you a brief history of the site and helping you appreciate its strategic importance historically. Many travelers have mentioned how the sunset views here are worth the visit alone — a perfect cap to your afternoon.
End of Tour and Return to Saranda
After soaking in the sunset, you’ll be comfortably transported back to your hotel. The entire experience, at just over four hours, feels well-paced, allowing you to thoroughly enjoy each location without feeling rushed.
Practical Details and What to Expect
This tour is designed to be convenient and enjoyable. Pickup from your hotel in Saranda is included, removing the stress of transportation logistics. The group size is capped at 8, fostering an intimate atmosphere where guides can tailor their storytelling and answer your questions.
The English-speaking guide ensures that you gain insights into Albania’s natural wonders, history, and local lifestyle. The tour fee covers entrance to the Blue Eye and the guided wine tasting, making it good value considering the personalized attention and included experiences.
What to bring? Comfortable shoes and water are recommended, especially for walking around the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle. The tour explicitly states that alcohol and drugs are not allowed—common sense, but worth noting.
Timing can vary slightly depending on the day, so it’s best to check availability ahead of time.
Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback
Two recent reviews underscore the positive impression this tour leaves. Mariglen appreciated the knowledgeable guide, Klajdi, and highlighted that the tour offers plenty of time at each site, making it easier to enjoy without feeling rushed. She also enjoyed the mix of history and natural beauty, describing it as “an amazing waterfall,” which hints at the diverse highlights travelers can expect.
Another traveler, Pro, praised the friendly guide and called the experience “really recommended for nature lovers.” The small group setting and focus on local flavors seem to resonate well with visitors who want a genuine taste of Albanian culture.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in local wines and history. It’s perfect if you prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and brief educational stops. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find the small-group vibe intimate and engaging.
It’s especially suitable if you want to avoid overly commercialized tours and instead enjoy authentic, locally-guided excursions that highlight the region’s beauty and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Saranda Hidden Gems tour offers a well-rounded introduction to southern Albania’s natural beauty, local culture, and scenic vistas. The combination of Blue Eye’s surreal waters, wine tasting in peaceful vineyards, and sunset from Lekursi Castle creates a memorable experience that balances sightseeing with flavor and history.
The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and included fees make it a practical choice for travelers seeking a quality, personalized tour without hidden costs. While it’s not a full-day adventure, the four-and-a-half hours are enough to leave you feeling enriched and relaxed.
If you’re craving a taste of authentic Albania, stunning views, and some excellent local wines, this tour is a smart option. It’s the kind of experience that gives you a deeper appreciation of this enchanting part of the world—without the fuss or fussiness.
FAQs
What is included in the tour price? The tour covers pickup from your hotel, guided visits, entrance to the Blue Eye, and a wine tasting at Isak Winery.
How long does the tour last? The tour runs approximately 4.5 hours, with start times varying by day; check availability when booking.
Is transportation provided? Yes, pickup from your hotel in Saranda is included, and transportation is in a private vehicle.
What should I bring? Bring comfortable shoes for walking and water to stay hydrated.
Are drinks included? The wine tasting is included at the winery, but food and drinks outside of that are not included in the tour price.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour suitable for children? The small-group setting and focus on scenery and wine tasting suggest it’s best suited for adults or older children who can appreciate the stops.
What language is the tour guide in? The guide speaks English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.
Are there any additional costs? You might find optional costs like train tickets to Blue Eye (around 3 euro) if you choose to visit independently outside the tour.
Is this tour good for photography? Absolutely. The Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
This tour balances the best of southern Albania: remarkable natural sights, delightful local wines, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for more, it promises a memorable taste of this captivating region.
You can check availability for your dates here: