Visit The National Park of Blue Eye and The Fortress of Lekuresi

A 3-hour journey from Saranda offers an engaging look at two of Albania’s most captivating sights: The Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle. Priced at $80.84 per person, this tour is designed for those who want a hassle-free experience, with hotel pickup and included entry fees. The tour is ideal for cruise passengers or day-trippers eager to explore Albania’s natural beauty and historic landmarks in a compact, comfortable outing.

While the tour has a generally positive reputation, with a 4.0/5 rating based on 9 reviews, some minor mishaps with coordination have been noted. However, the guides’ knowledge, the spectacular scenery, and the strategic viewpoints at Lekuresi Castle make this trip stand out. This tour suits visitors seeking a well-organized, scenic excursion that balances nature and history, with enough flexibility for a brief but memorable visit.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Saranda for ease of access.
• Explores the Blue Eye, a natural spring with crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.
• Visits Lekuresi Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of Saranda and nearby islands.
• Entry fees included at both locations, saving time and hassle.
• The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a compact experience.
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 100.

From Saranda Port to the Blue Eye National Park

This tour departs directly from the Port of Saranda, with pickups arranged for convenience. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, visitors enjoy a comfortable ride outside the busy city toward the Muzinë village, where the Blue Eye is located. The journey emphasizes ease, eliminating concerns about transportation logistics or navigation, especially for first-time visitors.

The Blue Eye is a natural monument famous for its oval-shaped spring that resembles an eye, with waters plunging up to 50 meters deep. Surrounded by dense greenery, this site offers stunning photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere. The area’s 18 springs create a vibrant, lively scene that appeals to both adults and children alike. The entry fee is included, making this a straightforward stop without additional costs.

Exploring the Blue Eye’s Unique Landscape

The National Park of Blue Eye offers a picturesque landscape that combines crystal-clear waters with lush vegetation. Visitors can expect roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes at this site, providing enough time to take in its beauty, snap photos, and enjoy the tranquil environment. The area’s depth, reaching up to 50 meters, adds a sense of wonder to this natural feature.

The surrounding dense plant life further enhances the scenic appeal, making this spot a perfect place for nature photography or simply relaxing in nature’s calm. The included entry fees mean travelers can focus on enjoying the scenery without concern over additional costs.

From the Blue Eye to Lekuresi Castle on a Hilltop

After exploring the natural wonder, the tour continues to the Ruins of Lekuresi Castle, perched atop a hill above Saranda. Built in 1537 during Ottoman times, the castle’s strategic location offers spectacular views of the bay, the road to Butrint, and the islands of Ksamil. On clear days, visitors can also see the island of Corfu, adding a touch of Mediterranean charm to the scenery.

The castle visit lasts around 45 minutes, providing plenty of time to walk through the ancient ruins and soak in the panoramic vistas. The entry fee is included at this site as well, streamlining the experience.

The View from Lekuresi Castle

The view from Lekuresi Castle is one of the highlights of this tour. From this vantage point, visitors can see the entire bay of Saranda, with its bustling port and surrounding beaches. The Islands of Ksamil are visible in the distance, and on the horizon, the island of Corfu adds a distinctly Mediterranean touch.

This spot combines its historical significance with breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite for photography and sightseeing. The castle’s ruins provide a tangible link to the past, while the panoramic views keep attention focused on the natural beauty of southern Albania.

Practical Details About the Tour Schedule

This tour operates daily from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with a flexible schedule to fit many itineraries. The meeting point is at the Port of Saranda, and the tour ends back at the same location.

Booking tends to occur about 47 days in advance, reflecting steady interest and the tour’s popularity among visitors. Because the tour is limited to 100 travelers, it retains a comfortable group size, ensuring that visitors receive attention from the guide.

The Guide and Group Experience

Guides on this tour are known for their informative explanations about both the natural features and the historic sites. The group dynamic is generally smooth, with a focus on providing clear, engaging commentary. The tour’s small group size allows for a more personalized experience, although some reviews mention minor mishaps such as logistical confusion, including wrong pick-up times.

Despite these issues, most participants appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the balance of natural beauty and history provided during the stops.

Accessibility and Suitability

The three-hour duration and easy walking terrain make this tour accessible to most travelers. The pickup service also adds convenience for those staying in Saranda, especially cruise visitors with limited time.

The tour is suitable for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. Its pace is generally moderate, allowing guests to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

The Value of This Sightseeing Experience

At $80.84 per person, this tour offers good value, with the cost of entry fees covered at both stops. The inclusion of round-trip transportation, combined with guidance, simplifies the visit and reduces planning stress.

While some reviews indicate minor organizational hiccups, these do not overshadow the overall quality of the sights and the expert commentary provided. This makes it a practical choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet brief exploration of key sites near Saranda.

Final Thoughts on the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle Tour

This tour shines in providing easy access to two of Albania’s most iconic sights. The Blue Eye’s natural beauty and the historic significance of Lekuresi Castle blend into a well-rounded experience. It caters well to cruise visitors or those with limited time, thanks to the short duration and organized logistics.

While minor logistical issues have been noted, the overall experience remains enjoyable. The stunning views, natural wonders, and historical sites make this a worthwhile outing for anyone visiting Saranda. Those interested in nature, history, and scenic views will find this tour a satisfying way to spend a few hours exploring southern Albania.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $80.84 per person, including entry fees at both stops.

How long does the tour take?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at the Port of Saranda and ends back there.

Is pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup in Saranda is part of the package, making logistics hassle-free.

Are entry fees included?
Yes, entry fees for both the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle are covered in the ticket price.

What are the main stops on this tour?
You visit The Blue Eye, a natural spring, and Lekuresi Castle, a historic fortress with panoramic views.

Is this tour suitable for children or limited mobility travelers?
Given the moderate pace and easy terrain, it can suit most travelers, but mobility limitations should be considered for walking around the castle ruins.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Booking about 47 days in advance is typical, but availability can be checked closer to your planned date.

Are there any negative reviews I should know?
Some reviews mention mishaps with coordination and timing issues, but most find the sights and guide explanations worthwhile.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of natural beauty and historic views, along with included entry fees and organized transport, gives this tour a practical appeal for visitors to Saranda.