Saranda:Tour Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, Ottoman Bridge, Lekursi

This tour review looks at a well-rated day trip that takes you through some of Albania’s most captivating sights. While we haven’t personally participated, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest a thoughtfully curated experience suitable for those eager to see Albania’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Two features stand out immediately: the seamless blend of natural beauty and historic sites, plus the comfort of traveling in a new, luxury Mercedes minivan with a professional guide. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long day’s travel, especially if you’re sensitive to mountain serpentines or prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of southern Albania’s key attractions in one day, especially those who appreciate engaging guides, scenic vistas, and a good value for money. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys learning about local culture while exploring stunning landscapes, this trip could be a highlight of your Albanian adventure.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport: Travel in a new, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer Minivan that comfortably fits up to 8 people.
• Expert guidance: Enjoy insights from an English-speaking guide who brings history and culture to life.
• Diverse stops: Visit castles, monasteries, natural springs, Ottoman bridges, and UNESCO-listed Gjirokaster in one day.
• Balanced itinerary: Plenty of time to explore, take photos, and soak in views, balanced with well-timed breaks.
• Authentic experiences: Access sites with rich stories, from ancient temples to Cold War bunkers.
• Value for money: For around a full day’s adventure, reviews praise the good balance of sights and storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting early in the morning, around 8:50 a.m., and returning by about 6 p.m., this tour offers a packed nine hours of sightseeing and culture. The key to its appeal is carefully curated stops, each with its unique charm and historical significance, complemented by engaging commentary from your guide.

The Luxurious Transportation

From the moment you step into the Mercedes Vito Tourer, you notice the comfort. Reviews consistently mention the cleanliness, air conditioning, and modern amenities. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a more personal experience compared to larger tours, with the driver and guide able to focus on your questions and interests.

First Stop: Lekursi Castle

Perched atop a hill overlooking Saranda and the Ionian coast, Lekursi Castle is the perfect starting point. Built in the 16th century by the Ottomans, it’s more than just a fortress; it’s a vantage point offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and sea. One reviewer mentions it as a “photo stop and guided tour,” which is ideal for snapping memorable pictures without feeling rushed. The entrance is free, so you can appreciate the views without extra costs.

The Monastery of Saint Nicholas

Next, the tour moves to Mesopotam Monastery, dating back to the 11th and 13th centuries. As a site that has seen Catholic and Orthodox rites and was transformed into a mosque during Ottoman rule, it encapsulates the layered spiritual history of the region. Visitors report that the site provides ample photo opportunities and a sense of connection to Albania’s religious past. Guided insights help to understand the significance of this ancient complex, constructed on even older temple remains.

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The Blue Eye Spring

Arguably the highlight for many, Blue Eye is a mesmerizing natural spring, with a perpetually cool temperature of 10°C, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm Albanian sun. With a modest entrance fee of about 50 cents, this site is a visual and sensory delight. Visitors often linger here, enjoying the tranquil forest surroundings and the sight of the water “eye”—a perfect spot for photos and relaxation. Several reviews emphasize how the natural beauty and peaceful environment make this stop a memorable one.

Albania’s Architectural and War Echoes

Continuing the journey, the tour introduces Ottoman bridges and Cold War bunkers, both of which tell stories of Albania’s complex past. The Ottoman bridge showcases the impressive engineering of the era, while the bunkers serve as stark reminders of the country’s isolationist phase during communism. Visitors find these sites fascinating for their historical depth and the contrasting architecture, and many appreciate the free entrance to these sites.

Gjirokaster: The UNESCO Jewel

The final major stop is Gjirokaster, a city UNESCO recognizes for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Walking its cobbled streets, you’ll see stone houses that look like mini fortresses, alongside the imposing Gjirokaster Castle, which dominates the skyline. The city’s ambiance invites exploration—whether wandering the old bazaar or snapping photos of the medieval streets. The guide often shares insights into local traditions and cuisine, with some travelers choosing to indulge in a traditional Albanian lunch (offered at extra cost). The reviews highlight the value of the time spent here—long enough to soak in the atmosphere but not so long as to fatigue.

The Flow and Timing of the Day

The itinerary is designed for efficiency. You’ll start with a quick 10-minute van ride to Lekursi Castle, then move to Mesopotam Monastery for about 30 minutes of exploration. The Blue Eye gets approximately 2 hours—a generous window to enjoy nature at leisure. The stop at Ura e Kordhocës, another scenic site with a 30-minute visit, offers a breather before heading to Gjirokaster for nearly three hours.

Throughout the day, reviews mention the well-paced schedule, allowing enough time to explore each site without feeling hurried. The driver and guide are praised for their punctuality and flexibility, ensuring a smooth experience. The overall structure balances guided commentary with free moments, enabling personal reflection and photography.

Travel in Comfort and Style

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes Vito minivan makes the long day more bearable. The reviews consistently mention the cleanliness, air conditioning, and overall comfort. Since the group size is limited, the atmosphere tends to be friendly and intimate, perfect for sharing questions or simply enjoying the scenic drive through Albania’s diverse landscapes.

The Guide: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Engaging

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ expertise and personality. Many reviews describe guides as “funny,” “supportive,” and “very informative,” often sharing stories and additional insights beyond the basic facts. Some reviewers emphasize how guides go above and beyond, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

Considering the fully insured transportation, expert guidance, six major site visits, and the small group size, the cost of this tour offers impressive value. The entrance fees for Blue Eye are minimal, and many sites like the monastery and Ottoman bridge are free, keeping overall costs manageable. The tour’s flexibility to include optional extras like lunch makes it adaptable to different budgets.

Reviewers frequently highlight that the balance of guided and free time and the knowledgeability of guides make this a worthwhile investment. For travelers wishing to see highlights of southern Albania without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple tickets and transport, this tour delivers a comprehensive and comfortable solution.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for those who want a full-day overview of some of Albania’s most scenic and historic sites. If you’re interested in a small-group experience that offers personalized attention, knowledgeable guides, and well-paced sightseeing, you’ll appreciate this trip. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy learning through stories and value comfort and convenience.

However, keep in mind the long travel hours and mountain roads—if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer shorter, less packed days, you might want to consider alternatives. It’s also less suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the nature of some sites and walking involved.

FAQs

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a new, air-conditioned Mercedes Vito Tourer Minivan, praised for its cleanliness and comfort, suitable for small groups.

How much time do I get at each site?
You’ll have about 30 minutes at Lekursi Castle and Mesopotam Monastery, approximately 2 hours at Blue Eye, 30 minutes at Ura e Kordhocës, and nearly three hours in Gjirokaster, giving a good balance of guided visits and free exploration.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Blue Eye entrance fee (~50 cents) is paid separately. Lunch in Gjirokaster is optional and costs extra.

What is the guide like?
Guides are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, enriching the experience with stories and local insights. They’re praised for their professionalism and humor.

Can I join if I don’t speak Albanian?
Absolutely. The guide communicates in English, making the tour accessible to international travelers.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but the long day and walking involved suggest it’s best for older children or teenagers comfortable with walking and mountain roads.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. No smoking, drinks, or food are allowed in the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Saranda to Blue Eye, Gjirokaster, and surrounding sites offers a well-rounded look at Albania, blending natural beauty with history and culture. The small group size and professional guidance make it an intimate experience, while the luxurious transportation ensures comfort throughout the long day.

Travelers who enjoy learning from passionate guides and exploring diverse sites—ranging from ancient monasteries to Cold War relics—will find this tour especially rewarding. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply want a reliable way to see some of the most scenic parts of Albania in one day, this trip is likely to meet your expectations.

In short, if you’re after a value-packed, enriching, and comfortable day trip that showcases the best of southern Albania, this tour deserves a strong consideration. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines scenic vistas, fascinating stories, and genuine local charm—making it a memorable highlight of any Albanian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: