From Saranda: Blue Eye, Gjirokastra, Private Tour

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Treasures: Blue Eye, Gjirokastra, Private Tour Review

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines stunning natural scenery with historical charm, this private tour from Saranda might just be your perfect match. It’s designed to give you a taste of Albania’s unique landscape and architecture, all wrapped into a six-hour journey. From the mesmerizing waters of the Blue Eye spring to the ancient stone streets of Gjirokastra, there’s plenty to keep your camera busy and your curiosity piqued.

One of the standout features of this experience is the balanced itinerary—it manages to include both natural wonders and culture, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Southern Albania. That said, keep in mind the tour’s pace can feel a little tight if you prefer more leisurely exploration or want to linger longer at each site. Overall, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, history, and authentic local flavor, all delivered in a private setting for a more personalized touch.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery at Blue Eye with vibrant blue waters and intriguing depths
• Authentic culinary experience with a traditional lunch in Gjirokastra’s old town
• Historical highlights including Gjirokastra Castle and the House of Zekateve
• Panoramic views from Lekuresi Castle add a memorable finish
• Convenient private transport with a flexible schedule and guided commentary
• Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of nature, history, and culture in a single day

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

Starting from Saranda, the tour begins with a pickup in a red mini van—a small detail that adds a personal touch and comfort. The journey itself is about 30 minutes to the first major stop, giving you time to settle in and get a feel for the scenery. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be sharing the vehicle with strangers, which can make for a more relaxed and flexible experience.

Visiting the Blue Eye Spring: A Natural Wonder

The first highlight is the Blue Eye spring, a natural phenomenon that’s hard to beat in Albania. The guide, often a knowledgeable local, will lead you on a guided walk around the spring, allowing ample time to soak in the vibrant turquoise waters. Reviewers mention the “crystal-clear waters” and how the color can shift depending on the sunlight, adding a magical quality to the visit.

The depth of the spring remains a mystery, which adds an element of intrigue. The surrounding area offers scenic views and photo opportunities, making it a perfect spot for capturing the vivid blue hues that make this site famous. Travelers have noted that the scenic drive to the Blue Eye on the way there offers more breathtaking vistas, reinforcing how Albania’s landscape is often more impressive than expected.

Gjirokastra: A Town Steeped in Ottoman Charm

After roughly an 45-minute drive, you arrive in Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town’s cobblestone streets and Ottoman architecture seem frozen in time. Here, your guide will lead you through the Old Town, highlighting key historical sites.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Lunch in Gjirokastra

One of the tour’s highlights is the traditional Albanian lunch served in the old town. The food options are typically local, hearty, and flavorful, giving you a true taste of the region. Reviewers have appreciated the authenticity of the meal, often mentioning local specialties that they wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. It’s a great way to rest, recharge, and enjoy the setting of medieval stone streets.

Exploring Gjirokastra Castle and House of Zekateve

Post-lunch, your journey continues into the Gjirokastra Castle, an imposing fortress that offers sweeping views of the city. The structure has stood for centuries, and your guide will fill you in on its history—though details are brief, the panoramic vistas from the ramparts are unforgettable.

Next, you’ll visit the House of Zekateve, built in 1812. This grand Ottoman-style residence provides insight into the architectural elegance of the era. Reviewers often comment on the well-preserved interiors and the chance to walk through a piece of living history.

The Final Stop: Lekuresi Castle

Before heading back to Saranda, the tour makes a final stop at Lekuresi Castle. Perched on a hilltop, this site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the coastline. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on your day and snap some last photos. Many mention that the panoramic vistas here are a highlight of the trip, making it a fitting conclusion.

Practicalities and Value

The tour includes entry tickets and a professional guide, which helps deepen your understanding of the sites. The traditional lunch is included, adding value and convenience; however, drinks are not covered, so bring some water or extra beverages if you prefer.

The duration is about 6 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability. The private group setup ensures a more intimate experience, and the “reserve now & pay later” option offers flexibility for your travel schedule.

Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the “stunning views” at Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle as the tour’s biggest draws. One reviewer mentioned that the Blue Eye’s vibrant colors made it feel almost surreal and that the guide’s storytelling added depth to the experience. Others appreciated the authentic local lunch, which provided a genuine taste of Albanian cuisine, noting it was hearty and satisfying.

Some travelers pointed out that the pace can be quite brisk, especially if you want more time at each site, but most seem satisfied with the well-organized itinerary and the personalized attention of the private tour. A few reviewers suggest arriving early or checking the starting times to avoid feeling rushed.

What to Remember

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven terrain.
• Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen to deal with the Albanian sun.
• A camera is essential to capture the colorful scenery and historic architecture.
• Keep a bottle of water handy, especially if visiting during warmer months.
• Smoking is not allowed, respecting the natural and historic sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private trip from Saranda is ideal for travelers who want to combine natural beauty with cultural exploration. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full-day, guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning logistics. Nature lovers will adore the Blue Eye’s vivid waters, while history buffs will enjoy strolling through Gjirokastra’s stone streets and visiting the fortress and Ottoman houses.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at some sites, this tour might feel a bit rushed, but the private setting still offers some flexibility. It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples wanting an intimate, personalized adventure.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from Saranda offers a compelling blend of spectacular scenery, authentic cuisine, and historic sights, making it a fantastic way to see a slice of Albania’s lesser-known gems. The stunning vistas from Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle alone make it worth considering, but the added cultural richness of Gjirokastra enhances the value.

While the schedule can be brisk, the overall experience is well-organized, with friendly guides and a focus on authentic Albanian highlights. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a full, diverse day trip without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple stops.

If you’re after a balanced, enriching, and visually stunning day out, this tour will likely tick all the boxes—and leave you with memorable stories and photos to share.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 hours, starting at a flexible time based on availability.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private group, which allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility during the day.

What’s included in the price?
It includes entry tickets, a professional guide, and a traditional Albanian lunch. Drinks are not included.

Is there any physical activity involved?
There’s walking involved at sites like Blue Eye, Gjirokastra, and Lekuresi Castle, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, some flexibility may be available, but it’s best to check directly with the provider for specific requests.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but generally, it’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers interested in nature and history.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water for a comfortable day.

Is there a chance I could get lost or miss something?
No—your guide will lead you through each site, providing context and ensuring you get the most out of every stop.

---

This detailed, balanced review should help you decide if this Blue Eye, Gjirokastra private tour matches your travel style. Whether it’s the scenic waters, historic streets, or panoramic views, Albania’s hidden treasures await you.

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