Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine

Saranda , Albania

Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine

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(19 reviews)

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About this experience

Experience private, tailor-made tour with authentic local flavour.
In this tour , you will get to experience the beauties of Albanian nature, the crystal clear water of Blue Eye and breathtaking views overlooking the horizont from the Castle of Lekuresi. You will also get a taste of traditional Albanian food and drinks such as wine and raki.

*Minimum number of travelers per booking is 2.
*For solo travelers there is an extra charge.

Available options

Experience Blue Eye , Lekuresi Castle and Taste Traditional Albanian Wine

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Perched on a strategic hill, the castle offers panoramic views of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and the islands of Ksamil. Explore the historic ruins and hear tales of its past from your guide.

Visiting the Blue Eye, you'll experience one of Albania's most stunning natural wonders. This mesmerizing water spring is renowned for its vibrant, deep blue color and crystal-clear waters that emerge from a mysterious, deep karst hole. The surrounding nature reserve enhances the sense of tranquility with its lush oak and sycamore forests, creating a serene backdrop perfect for relaxing or taking a leisurely walk.

As you approach the spring, the sound of water bubbling and the cool, fresh air add to the ambiance, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike. The water's intense color and clarity are captivating, inviting visitors to ponder the untouched depths below. This visit not only offers a chance to see a unique geological phenomenon but also provides a peaceful retreat into nature, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with the environment.

At the Wine Canteen "Isak," you will delve into the heart of Albanian viticulture and culinary tradition. This charming venue offers a cozy, authentic setting where you can taste a variety of locally produced wines, each with a unique flavor profile that captures the essence of the region's terroir. The tasting is accompanied by an assortment of traditional Albanian dishes, carefully prepared to complement the wines.

The experience is not only about tasting but also learning. You'll have the opportunity to see firsthand how the wines are produced, from grape selection to bottling, gaining insights into the traditional techniques and modern practices that define local winemaking. The canteen's warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of life in the countryside.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Snacks

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Saranda

Saranda is a charming coastal town in southern Albania, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Butrint National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater, baptistery, and various temples.

Historical 2-3 hours €7

Lekursi Castle

A historic castle offering panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. It's a great spot for sunset views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Ksamil Beach

A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and small islands nearby. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free to €10 for sunbeds and umbrellas

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

A natural spring with incredibly clear, blue water. It's a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.

Nature Half day €2 for parking

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tavë Kosi

A traditional Albanian baked dish made with lamb, rice, and yogurt.

Main Dish Contains dairy and meat

Byrek

A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat

Peshk në Zgarë

Grilled fish, often sea bass or sea bream, served with lemon and olive oil.

Main Dish Contains fish

Fërgesë

A traditional dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often served with bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Butrint National Park Scuba diving in Ksamil Boat tours to Ksamil Islands Sunbathing at Ksamil Beach Yoga on the beach Spa treatments Exploring Butrint National Park Visiting Lekursi Castle

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, ideal for beach activities and exploring the town. The sea is at its warmest, and the town is lively with various events and festivals.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Albanian
Widely spoken: English, Italian, Greek
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL)

Time Zone

GMT+1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Saranda is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Getting there

By air

Ioannis Kapodistrias International Airport • 200 km from Saranda

By bus

Saranda Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and convenient for getting around Saranda. They are frequent and connect major points in the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Albania

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Ksamil Butrint

Day trips

Corfu, Greece

15 km from Saranda • Half day to full day

A beautiful Greek island with ancient ruins, historic sites, and stunning beaches.

Llogara Pass

80 km from Saranda • Full day

A stunning mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Riviera.

Gjipe Canyon

60 km from Saranda • Full day

A beautiful canyon with a hidden beach, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Saranda Summer Festival • July to August Butrint Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Butrint National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
Take a boat tour to the Ksamil Islands for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Try local dishes like Tavë Kosi and Byrek for an authentic taste of Albanian cuisine.
Explore the town on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local secrets.
Attend local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.