Saranda Hidden Gems: Sunset at Lekursi,Blue Eye&Wine Tasting

Explore Saranda’s Top Natural and Historic Highlights in One Tour

This 4.5-hour tour in Vlorë County, Albania, offers a well-rounded experience combining natural wonders, local wine, and panoramic sunset views. Starting from Saranda, it takes visitors through Blue Eye’s crystal-clear waters, a family-run Isak Winery for a guided wine tasting, and the iconic Lekursi Castle at sunset. The tour is perfect for those seeking a compact yet diverse adventure, with a small group format limited to 8 participants ensuring personalized attention. The licensed guide speaks English, making the experience accessible and engaging.

With an all-in-one experience that highlights local products, offers hotel pickup, and includes entrance fees, this tour caters to travelers wanting a hassle-free way to see some of southern Albania’s finest sights. While food and drinks are not included, the wine tasting at the winery is a highlight, offering exquisite local wines and traditional snacks. The tour’s strength lies in its ability to combine nature, history, and flavor in a relaxed 4.5-hour timeframe, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 4.5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability
• Locations Covered: Blue Eye natural spring, Isak Winery, Lekursi Castle
• Highlights: Crystal waters, wine tasting, sunset views, small group, licensed guide
• Included: Entrance fee to Blue Eye, private tour, guide in English
• Not Included: Food and drinks outside wine tasting, train tickets to Blue Eye, winery fee of 15 euro per person
• Best for: Nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, history fans seeking a scenic, relaxing excursion

Discover the Enchanting Blue Eye Spring

The adventure begins with a visit to Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring famous for its vibrant blue waters and crystal clarity. The water appears almost surreal, captivating visitors with its vivid hues. The tour includes a guided visit and free time to take photos or enjoy the lush greenery surrounding the spring. With an entrance fee included, this stop offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and tranquil scenery.

Travelers appreciate how the guides explain the significance of Blue Eye, adding a layer of understanding to this remarkable site. The one-hour stop is enough to soak in the sights, take plenty of photos, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Because of its popularity, expect some small crowds, but the experience remains intimate thanks to the small group format.

Wine Tasting at Isak Winery in the Countryside

Next, the tour moves to the family-owned Isak Winery, which offers a guided wine tasting lasting about 80 minutes. The setting is peaceful, surrounded by vineyards, and the tasting features local wines paired with traditional snacks like fresh cheese, olives, and homemade bread. The guide shares insights into the winemaking traditions of the region, making this a flavorful and educational stop.

The wine fee of 15 euro per person covers a basic menu with four types of wine, raki, and limoncello. Travelers value the friendly guide and the opportunity to savor authentic Albanian wines in a serene environment. The tasting provides a relaxed atmosphere ideal for those who enjoy exploring local flavors and learning about regional traditions.

Sunset Views from Lekursi Castle

As the afternoon turns to evening, the group heads to Lekursi Castle, a historic fortress perched above Saranda. The 45-minute guided visit offers sweeping panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the town below. The highlight is the sunset, with the sky filling with orange and pink hues—a truly breathtaking scene.

Visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink or a light meal at the castle terrace, soaking in the peaceful yet majestic atmosphere. The castle’s vantage point makes it one of the best spots to capture spectacular sunset photos. Because this stop is at the end of the tour, it provides a perfect moment to unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Easy and Flexible Logistics with Hotel Pickup

This private tour includes hotel pickup in Saranda, making transportation effortless. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the English-speaking guide handles all the logistics and explanations. The tour operates with flexible starting times, so travelers can choose a schedule that suits their plans.

Participants are advised to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking at each stop. Since alcohol and drugs are not allowed, the focus remains on the natural and cultural sights. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for flexible booking.

What’s Included and What Expenses to Expect

The tour price covers all entrance fees, notably the Blue Eye entrance, and the guidance in English. The wine tasting at Isak Winery is not included in the base price but can be added for 15 euro per person. This fee covers a basic menu with four wine types, raki, and limoncello.

Food and drinks outside the winery tasting are not included in the package**, so travelers who wish to dine later will need to plan accordingly. The train tickets to Blue Eye are 3 euro per ride, payable separately if visitors want to revisit the site later.

The Experience as Described by Past Participants

The reviews highlight the tour’s high quality, including knowledgeable guides like Klajdi, who are praised for their friendly demeanor and depth of information. The small group size is appreciated, creating an intimate atmosphere.

Reviewers mention the tour’s balance of nature and history, and they particularly enjoy the stunning sunset from Lekursi Castle. The wine tasting is another favorite, with many noting the authentic regional wines and friendly service. The feedback confirms that this tour is well-organized and value-packed for travelers interested in exploring beyond Saranda.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 4.5-hour experience suits nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those interested in history and panoramic views. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace with small group intimacy and professional guidance. Because of the hotel pickup and all-in-one itinerary, it’s a convenient choice for visitors wanting a comprehensive taste of southern Albania.

The tour is less suited for travelers with mobility issues due to walking at multiple stops, or those preferring a longer, more in-depth exploration. It is, however, perfect for anyone looking for a short, scenic, and flavorful introduction to the region.

Final Thoughts on Saranda’s Sunset, Water, and Wine Tour

This small-group tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, local culture, and stunning vistas. The Blue Eye provides a mesmerizing start, followed by a delicious wine tasting that highlights Albania’s winemaking traditions. The sunset from Lekursi Castle leaves a lasting impression, especially for those who enjoy breathtaking views.

While food and drinks outside the winery are not included, and train tickets cost extra, the overall experience is well worth the price, especially with the personalized attention of the licensed guide. This tour provides a balanced, memorable afternoon for travelers who want to discover southern Albania’s natural and cultural treasures efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Saranda, making logistics simple.

How long is the visit to Blue Eye?
The Blue Eye stop lasts about one hour, giving enough time for photos and a guided visit.

Can I join the wine tasting without paying extra?
The wine tasting at Isak Winery costs 15 euro per person and is not included in the base price of the tour.

Is the sunset from Lekursi Castle a highlight?
Absolutely, the sunset views from Lekursi Castle are widely praised and are a true highlight of the tour.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the stops.

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