Special Tour "Wine Tasting - Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle"

Saranda , Albania

Special Tour "Wine Tasting - Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle"

Active

(17 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Start Point: Saranda (Pickup at 9:00AM or 4.00 pm )
Pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point in Saranda by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Stop 1: Blue Eye Spring
Drive time: ~45 minutes
Explore the famous Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye) – a deep, crystal-clear natural spring surrounded by lush forest.Enjoy a short guided nature walk, learn about the spring’s geology and local legends.

Stop 2: Local Winery Experience
Drive time: ~30-40 minutes.
Guided tour of the vineyard and wine cellar.
Wine tasting session: sample 3–5 types of local wines (red, white, and raki), paired with Albanian cheeses, olives, and homemade bread.Learn about Albania’s ancient winemaking traditions and grape varieties.

Stop 3: Lekursi Castle & Sunset View
Drive time: ~30 minutes
Arrive at Lekursi Castle for a guided historical tour.Enjoy free time to explore, relax, and take in breathtaking sunset views over Saranda, Corfu, and the Ionian coast.

Available options

Sunset Option

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Experience an exclusive taste of local wine, traditional raki and some delicious Albanian snacks at a local wine producer, Kantina Isak.

The Blue Eye is a natural spring in southern Albania. It holds the bluest, clearest water imaginable. Looking at it from above, the Blue Eye spring forms a swirling vortex that’s hypnotic to watch.The layers of the spring range from clear, colourless shallows to azure waters that border the intense, deep blue centre of the eye.The park around the Blue Eye includes a lake, a bridge, a rocky path and mountain scenery. The beautiful spring lies at the top end of the park, and is the source of the lake and the clear blue river that flows from it.

Stop 3

You cannot say that you saw Saranda without having visited the Lekuresi Castle. The castle was built in 1537 by the Ottoman sultan Suleiman I the Magnificent, who owed a period of particular expansion of the Ottoman influence on the area. Suleiman I attacked Corfu and had a manor built on the highest hill inland from Saranda to be able to control the entire valley below. From Corfu and Ksamil to Saranda and beyond, towards Butrint. All around the fortress of Lekuresi are the ruins of the homonymous village. The square plan of the castle forms a large open space in the center, a sort of terrace from which it is possible to have an extraordinary view.

What's not included

€15 – Basic tasting: 3 wines, 3 rakis, brandy, small food platter • €25 – Medium: more drinks, extra food variety • €35 – Full experience: 6 wines, 5 rakis, brandy, large food platter with meats

Train Ticket to Blue Eye (one way)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.