Sarande, Blue Eye & Sunset tour at Lekuresi castel

Discovering Albania’s Natural and Historic Gems: Sarande, Blue Eye & Sunset Tour at Lekuresi Castle

Setting out on a day trip around Saranda, this tour offers a well-balanced blend of natural beauty and history. With a friendly local guide, you’ll visit the famous Blue Eye spring—famous for its crystal-clear waters—and the historic Lekuresi Fortress, renowned for its sweeping sunset vistas. Priced affordably at just $28 per person, it promises an engaging experience without breaking the bank.

What really makes this tour stand out? We love how smoothly everything runs, from the comfortable transport to the detailed explanations from guides like Viola, whose enthusiasm often comes through in reviews. A potential consideration is that the tour’s structure leans more on sightseeing and scenic views rather than inside-depth historical commentary. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day with standout photo opportunities and scenic vistas, rather than those craving an intense cultural deep dive.

This tour suits visitors who want a hassle-free, engaging outing with a good mix of nature and history, with plenty of opportunities to capture memories and absorb stunning views. If you’re after a budget-friendly, scenic experience that covers Albania’s highlights in the Saranda area, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $28, the tour offers excellent value considering transportation, entrance fees, and guided insights.
• Comfortable Transport: Traveling in a clean, modern vehicle with a professional driver makes the experience hassle-free.
• Stunning Sightseeing: The Blue Eye spring and Lekuresi Fortress deliver memorable photo ops and scenic vistas.
• Insightful Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Viola, enhance the experience with local stories and tips.
• Time-Managed Itinerary: Easy pacing ensures enough time to enjoy each site without rushing.
• Limited Inside Tours: Expect more of an overview rather than exhaustive historical or geological explanations.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Leka Tours & Rent a Car in Saranda, a straightforward meeting point that’s easy to find. For those staying within the city, free hotel pickup is provided, which adds to the convenience. The ride to the Blue Eye National Park takes about 40 minutes, giving travelers a chance to settle in, chat with the guide, and get excited for what’s ahead.

The vehicle itself is described as comfortable, making the roughly 40-minute drive more enjoyable. Travelers often appreciate that the driver is professional, ensuring a relaxed start to the day. From reviews, we see that the driver’s friendliness and the modernity of the vehicle contribute significantly to a positive experience.

Visiting the Blue Eye Spring

The Blue Eye spring is the first stop and the highlight for many visitors. It’s a natural wonder where water flows from the mountain Mali i Gjërë into a deep, clear pool that’s mesmerizing to look at. The tour allows about an hour here—enough time for a guided walk, photos, and some free exploration.

What makes Blue Eye special? Its vivid blue and turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the lush greenery around. Travelers love the “picturesque views” and the chance to “capture unforgettable photos.” One reviewer pointed out that the water is so clear that you can see straight to the bottom, making it perfect for photography. The guided part of the visit ensures you get insightful commentary about the site’s natural features and the surrounding region.

However, it’s worth noting that you have the option to take a train ride into the site (though this is an optional extra), which some might find adds an extra layer of fun or convenience. Be prepared for moderate walking, as the terrain around the spring is natural and slightly uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Exploring Lekuresi Castle

After the Blue Eye, the tour continues to Lekuresi Fortress, a hilltop landmark offering panoramic views over Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and beyond. The drive takes about 40 minutes again, with about 30 minutes allocated for the visit.

Once there, you’ll get a brief guided tour, with time for photos from the fortress walls and the chance to soak in the sunset views — especially magical if you visit close to sunset. Reviewers frequently mention that the sunset from Lekuresi is “breathtaking,” making it one of the best spots in Saranda for capturing that perfect golden hour shot.

The fortress itself is a historical site, though the tour provides only a quick overview rather than an in-depth history lesson. Still, the views alone make this stop worthwhile. Many travelers appreciate being able to enjoy free time here to take photos or simply absorb the scenery.

Returning and Overall Timing

The trip wraps up with a short 20-minute drive back to Saranda, leaving plenty of time at the end of the day to relax or explore further on your own. The entire experience lasts around 7-8 hours, making it a manageable day trip.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides, especially mentioning Viola, who is described as “superb” and “really great.” Her local knowledge and friendly attitude seem to elevate the experience, making the sightseeing feel more personal and engaging. Several reviewers highlight the value for money, noting that the tour includes entrance fees and transportation, which can otherwise add up when planning independently.

One traveler from Germany shared that the tour was “super nice,” and another from the Netherlands mentioned that they loved the “great mix of activities,” appreciating that there was enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

A common theme among positive reviews is the ease of the process—prompt pickups, comfortable transportation, and clear organization. Some noted that the tour is more about enjoying the views and snapping photos than detailed historical commentary, which can be a plus or minus depending on what you’re after.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews pointed out that the tour is more about scenic sightseeing and less about in-depth education. If you’re hoping for detailed history or geology, this tour might not satisfy that craving. Also, travelers with mobility issues might find the walking around the sites, especially at Blue Eye and Lekuresi, a bit challenging.

Practical Details and Tips

• What to bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are essential. The natural terrain and sunny weather mean planning ahead can make the day much more enjoyable.
• What’s not included: Meals, drinks, or optional train rides aren’t part of the package, so consider bringing snacks or planning for lunch afterward.
• Timing: Starting times vary, so check availability and plan accordingly. The tour is valid for just one day, and cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance.
• Group Size: The reviews suggest a small, friendly group, which helps with personalized attention and easier photo opportunities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized day filled with stunning visuals and interesting sights. It’s ideal if you love taking photographs and enjoy panoramic views. The relatively low price makes it accessible, especially for those who want to see two of Saranda’s highlights without hassle.

It’s also great for those who appreciate a knowledgeable guide to enhance their understanding, but don’t need extensive inside knowledge. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the casual pace and friendly atmosphere make this a lovely outing. However, it’s less suited for people with mobility issues or those seeking in-depth historical or geological insights.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour offers excellent value, combining the natural wonder of the Blue Eye spring with the scenic splendor of Lekuresi Fortress. The smooth logistics, friendly guides, and breathtaking views make it a standout choice for travelers wanting an easy, enjoyable day exploring Albania’s highlights.

Whether you’re there for the gorgeous photo opportunities, the chance to learn a bit about the region, or simply to relax and watch the sunset, this experience ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suited for those who want a hassle-free, budget-friendly way to enjoy the landscape and history of Saranda in one day.

If you’re after a trip that balances scenic beauty with authentic local insights, this tour deserves a spot on your Albania itinerary.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle with a professional driver, making the day smooth and stress-free.

Can I join this tour if I’m staying outside Saranda?
Guests staying within Saranda can be picked up from their hotel, but those outside the city limits will need to meet at the Leka Tours office.

How much time do I get at each site?
You’ll have approximately one hour at the Blue Eye spring and about 30 minutes at Lekuresi Fortress, enough for sightseeing, photos, and brief exploration.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring water and snacks for the day.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking around natural terrain and hilltop sites, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility impairments or young children needing assistance.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged, especially at the scenic viewpoints. Drones are not permitted, however.

This review highlights what makes the Sarande, Blue Eye & Sunset tour at Lekuresi Castle a memorable, value-packed experience. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Albania’s natural beauty and historic sites in one relaxed, scenic day.