Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle Tour

The Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic local flavors. For $112 per person, this 6-hour guided excursion departs from Saranda, making it a convenient way to see some of Albania’s most captivating sights in a single day. The tour is perfect for those interested in stunning landscapes, history, and traditional cuisine, though it may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of outdoor exploration and cultural storytelling. You’ll visit the well-known Blue Eye, a UNESCO-protected water spring renowned for its mesmerizing clarity. Afterward, a delicious lunch at the Mesopotamagrotourism restaurant provides a taste of local Albanian dishes. The day concludes with a visit to Lekursi Castle, where panoramic views of Saranda and insightful commentary about its historical significance await. The tour offers a well-rounded taste of the area, though it’s important to note that the road to the Blue Eye takes about 30 minutes, and the tour involves walking and sightseeing activities.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $112 per person for 6 hours of guided exploration
• Main Stops: Blue Eye, Mesopotamagrotourism restaurant, Lekursi Castle
• Highlights: Stunning water spring in a UNESCO park, local Albanian cuisine, panoramic views of Saranda from the castle
• Included: Entrance tickets, guided tours, lunch, air-conditioned transportation
• Limitations: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, optional train transfer not included at Blue Eye

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder in UNESCO Park

The tour begins with a visit to the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most famous natural landmarks. This spring in a UNESCO-protected park features crystal-clear waters that seem to plunge into a mysterious deep blue. Visitors can walk around the park, take photos of the spring, and relax near the cool waters for about 1.5 hours. The walk to the main spring takes place in a lush setting with diverse flora and fauna, making it an engaging outdoor activity.

The Blue Eye is a location that captivates with its vibrant hues and tranquil atmosphere. The main water spring is a striking feature that draws many for its beauty, but it’s worth noting that reaching the main site involves a road of approximately 30 minutes from Saranda. The option of an optional train pass exists for transportation within the park, which could be helpful for those with mobility issues, though this is not included in the tour.

Tasting Albanian Flavors at Mesopotamagrotourism Restaurant

Following the Blue Eye, the journey continues to Mesopotam, an agrotourism restaurant and resort located just 10-15 minutes away. Here, visitors enjoy a lunch break featuring one of three set menus, allowing for some flexibility based on personal taste. The lunch lasts about 1.5 hours, providing enough time to savor traditional Albanian dishes in a rustic setting.

The restaurant emphasizes local ingredients and authentic flavors, making it an ideal stop for those interested in regional cuisine. The surrounding landscape adds to the charm, offering a peaceful environment to unwind before heading to the next historic site.

Discovering the History at Lekursi Castle

The final stop on the tour is Lekursi Castle, which rests on a hill overlooking Saranda. During this 30-minute guided visit, the guide shares insights into the castle’s history and cultural importance. Visitors are free to take pictures of the spectacular views of the town and coastline from the castle grounds.

The castle’s vantage point provides sweeping vistas, making it a perfect spot for photography and reflection on the area’s past. The guided tour ensures visitors understand the significance of Lekursi as a strategic location throughout history, enhancing appreciation for this prominent landmark.

Practicalities: Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour departs from the Tea Tours office at 9 am, with transportation provided in air-conditioned vehicles. The drive to the Blue Eye takes approximately 30 minutes, followed by the sightseeing and exploration activities. The entire schedule is designed to balance outdoor activity, cultural insight, and leisure, with the Blue Eye visit and lunch each lasting about 1.5 hours and the Lekursi Castle stop around 30 minutes.

Group sizes are typical for guided tours, and the live guide conducts the experience in English, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the terrain and walking involved.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers all entrance tickets, the guided tour, lunch at Mesopotam, and air-conditioned transportation. Visitors also benefit from the guides’ cultural and historical insights. However, the optional train pass in the Blue Eye park is not included, which could be a consideration for those who prefer easier access to the main spring site.

It’s worth noting that smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle and fireworks or explosive substances are not allowed during the tour for safety reasons.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for those with changing travel plans. Visitors can also reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility in planning their trip. The starting times are available based on tour availability, and the duration remains generally around 6 hours.

Accessibility and Suitability

Since the tour involves walking around outdoor sites and stairs at Lekursi, it is not suitable for individuals with mobility challenges or those using wheelchairs. The pathways are uneven in some areas, and the drive to the Blue Eye may involve rougher terrain if the optional train pass is not used.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This guided day trip offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and local cuisine. The Blue Eye is a highlight for its stunning waterscape, while the lunch at Mesopotam allows for an authentic taste of Albanian gastronomy. The view from Lekursi Castle provides a fitting conclusion with picturesque scenery and historical context.

Though the road to the Blue Eye takes some time, the experience rewards visitors with extraordinary sights and insight into Albanian culture. The guided nature of the tour ensures that even first-time visitors gain a deeper understanding of each location, making it an insightful and enjoyable option for a day in Saranda.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle outdoor walking and a moderate pace. Very young children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated during lunch?
The provided information mentions three menu options but does not specify dietary accommodations. It’s best to confirm with the tour provider if needed.

Can I skip the train in the Blue Eye park?
The train pass is optional and not included in the tour. Guests can choose to walk or use the train if available, depending on mobility.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a camera, and water are recommended. The outdoor sites and the walk around the Blue Eye require some physical activity.

Is there enough time at each stop?
Yes, the schedule allocates approximately 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye, 1.5 hours for lunch, and 30 minutes at Lekursi Castle, providing ample time for sightseeing and photos.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
The tour includes guided explanations and designated sightseeing times, but there is some free time at each stop for personal exploration and photo-taking.

How crowded does the tour get?
The group size is typical for guided tours, but specific crowd levels depend on the season and day. Early bookings can help secure preferred times.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Moderate walking is involved at the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle. The terrain is uneven, so comfortable shoes are advised.

What makes this tour different from other Saranda excursions?
The combination of natural wonders, authentic Albanian cuisine, and historic views from Lekursi Castle sets this tour apart, offering a comprehensive day in the region.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start date. Payment can be deferred at booking, offering flexibility.

This Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye, and Lekursi Castle Tour provides a balanced glimpse into Albania’s natural beauty and cultural richness—perfect for travelers seeking a well-organized, memorable day from Saranda.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby