Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and walking tour & Lekursi Castle

Explore Albania’s Natural and Historic Treasures in Just 4.5 Hours

The Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and walking tour & Lekursi Castle offers a well-balanced combination of natural beauty and historic sights. Priced around [price not specified], this 4.5-hour experience departs from Sarande and takes visitors to some of the area’s most captivating spots. The tour includes round-trip transportation, kayak equipment, and entry fees for the Blue Eye Spring, making it a convenient and memorable way to discover Albania’s stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. With free time for swimming and photo-taking, along with insightful commentary about the history of Lekursi Castle and the Blue Eye Spring, it suits travelers who want a full yet manageable glimpse into the region’s highlights. The tour has received an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 40 reviews, emphasizing its popularity and quality.

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Key Points

• Duration: 4.5 hours with flexible starting times
• Highlights: Kayaking in Blue Eye Lake, exploring Lekursi Castle, and enjoying panoramic views
• Inclusions: Transportation, kayak & safety gear, Blue Eye entry fee, and free exploration time
• Guide: English-speaking driver and guide with detailed local knowledge
• Suitable for: Those comfortable with outdoor activities; not ideal for mobility-impaired travelers
• Limitations: No hotel pickup or drop-off included; bring cash for on-site services

Starting at Sarande’s Central Meeting Point

The tour begins at OpenTour Albania, located at their souvenir shop in Sarande, where Ledjon, the guide, greets guests wearing a black hat. From this central location, travelers board a comfortable, air-conditioned van for the short 10-minute transfer to Lekursi Castle. This hilltop fortress offers spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and provides a perfect spot for photos or a quick exploration before heading to the Blue Eye area.

Visiting Lekursi Castle for Panoramic Views and History

Lekursi Castle serves as the first major stop of the tour. Visitors are given about 30 minutes for a guided tour, free time, and sightseeing. The castle’s vantage point overlooks the Ionian coast, and the guide shares insights into its history. The location’s elevated position makes it an excellent spot for panoramic photos of the coastline and surrounding landscapes.

This stop functions as an ideal introduction to the area’s historical significance, setting the tone for the natural wonders ahead. The relaxed pace allows enough time to absorb the views and appreciate the castle’s architecture without feeling rushed.

Scenic Transfer to the Blue Eye Spring

After exploring the castle, the group boards the van for a 30-minute drive to the national park near the Blue Eye Spring. The scenery along this route showcases Albania’s lush countryside, making the journey itself part of the experience. Once arriving, a 7-minute scenic walk leads to the kayak dock, where all necessary equipment is provided.

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Kayaking Adventure at Blue Eye Lake

The highlight of the tour is the 1.5-hour kayaking session at Blue Eye Lake, one of Albania’s most striking natural phenomena. With kayak and safety equipment included, visitors paddle through the crystal-clear waters surrounded by untouched nature. The water’s intense turquoise hue, combined with the lush greenery, creates an almost surreal atmosphere.

Kayaking offers a peaceful way to enjoy the lake’s tranquility while getting a bit of outdoor activity. Once anchored, there’s ample time to swim in the pristine waters and take photographs of the vivid colors and natural surroundings.

Walking to the Blue Eye Spring and Cultural Insights

Following the kayaking, the group continues on foot, following a picturesque trail that leads to the famous Blue Eye spring. This walk takes around 17 minutes and offers the chance to observe the lush landscape up close. At the spring, the guide shares fascinating details about this natural wonder. Visitors can enjoy free time to capture stunning photos, relax with a coffee, or simply soak in the magical scenery.

This part of the trip combines light hiking with immersive nature appreciation, making it suitable for those comfortable with walking on uneven surfaces. The spring’s vivid turquoise water and the surrounding greenery deliver a memorable visual experience.

Additional Time at Blue Eye & Nearby Attractions

After exploring the Blue Eye Spring, the tour allows for a 1-hour break. Visitors can revisit the spring for more photos, purchase souvenirs, or enjoy refreshments at the on-site bar-restaurants—cash is recommended for these services. The guide provides insights into the natural phenomenon, which adds educational value to this scenic stop.

Other Stops and the Return Journey

Post-visit, the group walks back to the van for a 30-minute transfer to Munizë, with a brief 17-minute walk included. The itinerary culminates with the return to Sarande via the original meeting point. The entire experience wraps up after roughly 4.5 hours, with travelers leaving with beautiful photos and lasting memories of the natural beauty and history encountered.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, water, and a camera to capture the scenery. Sunscreen and heat protection are advisable, especially during the summer months. Since food and drinks in the vehicle are not allowed, packing snacks and cash for on-site purchases ensures a smooth experience. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking on uneven terrain and stairs.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This experience shines through the combination of outdoor adventure and cultural sights. The knowledgeable guide, Ledjon, is praised for his professionalism and storytelling, making the trip informative and engaging. The stunning natural scenery of the Blue Eye Lake and the panoramic vistas from Lekursi Castle are highlights that resonate with visitors.

The inclusion of kayaking provides a more active dimension, and the free time for swimming and photos allows personal exploration. The value for money is recognized in reviews, especially given the comprehensive itinerary and professional organization.

Limitations and Considerations

A notable limitation is the lack of hotel pickup or drop-off, so travelers need to arrange transportation to the meeting point. The tour requires walking on uneven surfaces and is not suitable for mobility impairments. Travelers should also bring cash for extra expenses at the Blue Eye facilities, as card payments are not accepted.

Final Thoughts on the Sarande Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle Tour

This 4.5-hour guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Albania’s coast, natural wonders, and historic sites. The combination of kayaking at Blue Eye Lake, exploring Lekursi Castle, and walking to the Blue Eye spring balances adventure, culture, and scenery beautifully.

The professional guidance, stunning vistas, and the opportunity to enjoy swimming in pristine waters make it a strong choice for travelers seeking a manageable, activity-packed day. The tour’s high rating and happy reviews confirm its quality and appeal.

Most suitable for active visitors who want to see Albania’s remarkable landscape without spending an entire day on excursions. For those who prioritize natural beauty and history in a compact experience, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins and ends at OpenTour Albania’s meeting point in Sarande.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, water, camera, sunscreen, and cash for extra expenses at the Blue Eye facilities.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, the tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some climbing, so it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How long is the kayaking session?
The kayaking lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing plenty of time for paddling, swimming, and photos.

What is the capacity of this tour?
The specific group size isn’t detailed here, but reviews suggest a well-organized, small to medium-sized group.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely, the scenery provides stunning photo opportunities at every stop, especially at Lekursi Castle and the Blue Eye spring.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included in the price and are available at the Blue Eye bar-restaurants for cash.

What is the level of physical activity required?
Moderate — kayaking, walking on trails, and climbing stairs are involved, so a basic level of fitness is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the outdoor activities and walking on uneven surfaces suggest it’s best suited for older children or active adults.

What do reviewers say about the guide?
Reviewers consistently praise Ledjon for his knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism, enhancing the overall experience.

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