Vlore: Blue Eye, Ksamil Beach, and Saranda Day Trip

Discovering the Blue Eye, Ksamil Beach, and Saranda in a Day: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a day trip from Vlore to see some of Albania’s most talked-about seaside spots and natural wonders, this tour promises quite a bit. It’s marketed as a full 12-hour experience that takes you from the famous Blue Eye spring to the sands of Ksamil and the lively promenade of Saranda. The charm lies in the diversity: nature, beaches, and a taste of local seaside life—all packed into one day.

What we really like about this tour is its straightforward approach and the chance to see three different sides of Albania’s coast—each with its own character. You get to marvel at the Blue Eye’s stunning water, lounge on the white sands of Ksamil, and walk along Saranda’s bustling seaside promenade. Plus, the scenic drive through the region adds to the experience, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops.

However, a notable concern is the transport. Some reviews mention that the drive can be quite long—more than six hours round trip—and the ride might feel a bit rushed or uncomfortable depending on the driver’s style. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more relaxed travel, this is worth considering. This tour would suit travelers who want a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a bit of travel time, especially those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: The Blue Eye spring is a captivating geological feature that offers excellent photo opportunities.
• Beach Relaxation: Ksamil Beach boasts soft white sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
• Charming Towns: Saranda provides a lively seaside atmosphere with a scenic promenade and local cafes.
• Flexible Free Time: You get scheduled breaks to swim, explore, or grab food (not included).
• Comfort & Group Size: Small groups (up to 8 participants) and bilingual guides make for a more personalized experience.
• Long Travel Hours: Expect over 4 hours of coach travel, so pack snacks and patience.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting Point & Transportation

Your adventure begins at the TouristSolutions office, where you’ll hop into a mini bus—cozy and fitting for the small group size. The drive from Vlore to the Blue Eye takes about two hours, and while the scenery is undeniably beautiful, it’s a relatively long ride. Some travelers noted that the driver kept the air conditioning on constantly, which might be uncomfortable for some, especially during warmer months. Plus, reviews mention the drive’s recklessness, so if you’re sensitive to that, go in with eyes open.

The Blue Eye Spring

The highlight for many, the Blue Eye spring is a natural marvel—a deep, turquoise pool that seems to bubble up from the earth. The walk to the site is approximately 1.3 km (some reviews say closer to 3 km, which can be a surprise if not expected). The surrounding lush greenery offers a peaceful backdrop, and you’re free to explore, take photos, or just stare into the mesmerizing waters.

Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to have about 50 minutes here, giving enough time for photos and a brief walk around. One traveler from Spain mentioned that the place is pretty busy, so arriving early might help avoid crowds. The scenery here is impressive enough to make the walk worthwhile.

Ksamil Beach

After Blue Eye, you’ll head to Ksamil, known for its pristine, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters—a perfect setting for swimming and sunbathing. You’ll have around four hours here, which is generally enough to relax, grab a bite, or explore the small seaside town. Be aware that you won’t be dropped directly on the beach; one reviewer pointed out that the drop-off is about 30 minutes away from the main beaches, which can be a bit inconvenient.

Food isn’t included, so many choose to eat at local restaurants, where prices can be higher—a common trait at popular tourist spots. If you’re on a budget, consider bringing snacks or eating early before arriving. Many reviewers noted the beaches are quite crowded and touristy, and some mentioned that the beaches are more expensive than expected. Still, the waters are stunning, and the sands inviting.

Saranda Stopover

The last stop is Saranda, where you get around an hour to walk along the promenade, enjoy a coffee, or take in the seaside views. While some found the time sufficient, others felt it was a bit rushed, especially since the return journey is another two hours of driving. Nonetheless, Saranda’s lively atmosphere offers a nice contrast to the serenity of Blue Eye and Ksamil.

Return Journey & Final Thoughts

The return trip is roughly two hours, with some reviews indicating the driver might drop you off some minutes away from the main meeting point, which can be a slight inconvenience. Remember, this is a small group, so you’re likely to get a more personalized experience, but the long hours in transit mean this isn’t ideal for those seeking a leisurely, low-travel-day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who are eager to see multiple highlights of Albania’s coast without planning each stop independently. It’s great for people who don’t mind long coach rides and are looking for a full-day experience packed with sightseeing. If natural wonders and beaches are your priority, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re sensitive to long drives, prefer more time at each site, or are traveling with very young children or mobility issues, this may not be the most comfortable option. The reviews’ mixed feedback on driver safety and the walk lengths suggest it’s best for flexible, adventurous travelers who can handle a packed schedule.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Scenic Drive and Small Group Dynamics

Traveling in a small group of up to 8 people, you’ll benefit from a more intimate atmosphere. Guides—who speak Italian and Albanian—are praised for their friendliness, though some reviews hint at a need for better safety awareness from the driver. The drive itself, through Albania’s varied landscapes, offers a chance to see the countryside and coastal scenery, a plus for photography lovers.

Visiting the Blue Eye: A Visual Feast

The Blue Eye is one of those sights that really lives up to its reputation, especially in person. The water’s vivid blue and the bubbling pool make for fantastic photos. Some reviewers say the site is busier than expected, so arriving early or late in the day might avoid the crowds. The walk is somewhat longer than initially thought, but the natural beauty makes it worthwhile.

Ksamil’s Beaches: A Mix of Relaxation and Touristy Vibes

With four hours, you can relax on the soft sands, take a swim in the clear waters, or explore nearby cafes. But be aware that the beaches are quite popular and tend to be crowded, especially during peak season. One reviewer noted that the beaches aren’t exactly as secluded as the photos suggest—they’re somewhat touristy and more expensive than other beaches in Albania.

Saranda: A Brief, Lively Stop

The short stop in Saranda offers a quick glimpse of the lively seaside town. While some felt an hour was enough, others wished for more time to explore or relax. Still, the promenade offers great views and a chance to pick up a quick coffee or souvenir.

Overall Value & Practical Tips

At $83 per person, the price includes transport and scheduled stops but excludes food and drinks. Considering the long travel hours and the sights included, many might find this a fair value—though some reviews suggest the experience can feel rushed. To get the most out of it, consider bringing snacks, water, and comfortable shoes.

Final Thoughts

This tour is a solid choice for those who want a comprehensive look at Albania’s scenic coast in one day. Its strength lies in the variety of stops—from waterfalls and springs to beaches and lively towns. It offers an excellent snapshot of the region’s natural beauty and seaside culture, all with the convenience of organized transport and a small group setting.

That said, it’s not ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed pace or those wary of long bus rides. The mixed reviews about driver safety and the walk lengths suggest that flexibility and patience are needed. It’s most suitable for energetic travelers eager to tick off must-see sights and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re after a well-rounded, budget-friendly day that balances natural wonders with some beach downtime, this experience will certainly deliver. Just be prepared for the long hours, and plan your day’s meals accordingly.

FAQ

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the TouristSolutions office, called Moonlight.

How long is the coach journey?
The drive from Vlore to the Blue Eye takes about two hours. The return journey also lasts around two hours, making the total travel time over four hours.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’re free to purchase lunch at local restaurants during the stop at Ksamil, but prices can be higher at tourist spots.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 50 minutes at the Blue Eye, four hours at Ksamil Beach, and an hour in Saranda, depending on the day’s schedule.

Can I walk to the Blue Eye from the parking area?
Yes, the walk is about 1.3 km (some say closer to 3 km), so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It depends; the walk lengths and long bus rides might be challenging for some. Check personal comfort levels before booking.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is limited to a small group of up to 8 participants, providing a more intimate setting.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a change of clothes, a reusable water bottle, and motion sickness prevention if needed.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is noted to be wheelchair accessible.

In sum, this day trip from Vlore offers a chance to see some of Albania’s most iconic sights. It balances natural beauty, seaside relaxation, and a taste of local life—perfect for travelers looking for a full but manageable itinerary. Just keep in mind the long hours on the road and some reviews pointing out areas for safety improvements. If you’re flexible and eager to explore, this could be a memorable addition to your Albanian adventure.