Sarande Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle Tour

A guide to Sarande’s best half-day adventure: Blue Eye spring and Lekursi Castle
If you’re visiting Sarande in Albania, this tour offers a neat way to see two of the area’s most iconic sights without tying up your whole day. For just over $30 per person, you get a scenic drive, some free time at a world-famous spring, and a sunset view from a historic castle. The whole experience is designed for those who want a taste of natural beauty and panoramic vistas, with the comfort of a small group and a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What I particularly like about this tour is how flexible and relaxed it feels — there’s enough time to really soak in each spot, rather than rushing through. Also, the guide I’ve read about, Ledjon Musai, is praised for his friendly attitude and good explanations, which makes the trip more engaging. One thing to keep in mind: the Blue Eye train ride is only available from April to October, so if you’re visiting in winter, you’ll skip that fun little addition and walk instead. Still, it’s a minor detail that doesn’t take away from the overall experience.

A possible consideration? The tour is around 3.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick escape from Sarande’s beaches, but if you’re craving a deeper or more in-depth visit, you might find it a bit brief. Also, since hotel pickup isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point, which is in the city center.

In all, this tour hits a nice balance of natural beauty, historical interest, and spectacular views, making it a fantastic option for anyone with limited time or looking for a manageable adventure outside the city.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning scenery at Blue Eye spring — the turquoise water and lush surroundings are picture-perfect.
• Flexible time at Blue Eye — enough space to take photos, dip your feet, or enjoy a coffee break.
• Beautiful sunset from Lekursi Castle — expect sweeping views of Corfu, Ksamil, and the Ionian Sea.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) — ensures a more personalized experience.
• Knowledgeable guide (likely Ledjon Musai) — offers detailed explanations and friendly service.
• Good value for money — includes transportation, Blue Eye entry fee, and a train ride (season dependent) for a reasonable price.

Exploring Sarande’s Hidden Gems in 3.5 Hours

When I first looked into this tour, I appreciated how it promises a compact yet rich experience. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see some of Sarande’s most photogenic sites. The trip begins in the city center, a convenient starting point that makes it easy to join without worrying about complicated logistics. From there, you board a climate-controlled van, which is a nice touch—your comfort is taken care of as you soak in the scenery.

The Drive and the Blue Eye Spring

The journey toward the Blue Eye spring is as scenic as the destination itself. As you leave Sarande behind, the guide points out the Bistrica River and the plentiful greenery, giving you a glimpse into the lush landscape that characterizes this part of Albania. Once at the parking lot, you can opt for a 12-minute walk or hop on a little train (season dependent), which adds a fun element, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want to save your energy for exploring.

The Blue Eye is a natural marvel — a crystal-clear spring bursting from the ground, creating a vivid ring of turquoise around a dark core. The water remains icy cold, but dipping your feet or just marveling at its depth is enough to make your visit memorable. Many reviewers, like Hettie T, mention how the guide provided ample time to soak in the atmosphere and take photos. You’ll also find stalls selling coffee and souvenirs, so you can relax and enjoy the surroundings at your pace.

Note: Entry to Blue Eye is included, but the train ride isn’t, which is a seasonal addition. As one reviewer noted, “Plenty of time at the Blue Eye and a great sunset from the castle,” which sums up what many find appealing — a balance of scenic beauty and leisure.

The Climb to Lekursi Castle and Sunset Views

Next, the van takes you uphill to Lekursi Castle, a hilltop fortress with commanding views of the coastline. It’s an ancient site, with round towers adding charm and history. The real treat here is catching the sunset — many reviews highlight how incredible the views are as day turns to dusk. It’s a photographer’s dream, with vistas stretching from the Ionian Sea all the way to Corfu, Bistrica River, Butrint Lake, and the surrounding villages.

The castle’s open area is perfect for relaxing while enjoying the scenery. And if you’re interested in local cuisine, there’s a restaurant at the castle, although the tour doesn’t include a meal. For those looking to turn this into a special evening, it’s worth planning a dinner here on your own.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone who appreciates natural beauty, scenic drives, and panoramic views, this experience hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time in Sarande or those who prefer small-group tours for a more personal touch. The moderate physical activity involved — mainly walking at Blue Eye and some gentle uphill at Lekursi — makes it accessible for most travelers with average mobility.

Practical Details and Value

At just over $30, the price is quite reasonable considering everything included: transportation, Blue Eye entry, and the scenic train ride if seasonal. The tour is well-paced, as several reviews mention the generous amount of time at each stop. The small group size means you can ask questions freely and get a more tailored experience.

One thing to note: hotel pickup isn’t on offer, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point, which is centrally located in Sarande. The tour is booked about a week in advance on average, so plan your schedule accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful taste of Sarande’s natural and historical highlights. Ideal for first-timers or those on a tight schedule, it suits nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, and sunset chasers alike. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the small-group setting and relaxed pace make it a comfortable outing.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive sightseeing tour of the entire region, this might be a little light, but for a manageable half-day adventure, it’s a real winner.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? No, you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point in Sarande.
How long is the tour? Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including travel and sightseeing time.
What is the maximum group size? Up to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
Is the Blue Eye train ride seasonal? Yes, it operates from April to October. In winter months, you’ll walk to the spring instead.
What’s the best time to see the sunset from Lekursi Castle? The tour is timed to catch the sunset, so plan to arrive a bit early for the best views.
Are meals included? No, meals are not part of the package.
Can I buy souvenirs at Blue Eye? Yes, there are vendors selling coffee and souvenirs near the spring.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, as long as they’re comfortable walking and on moderate terrain.
How do I book? The tour can be booked through Viator or directly via Open Tour Albania.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, camera, sun protection, and a bottle of water — especially if the weather’s warm.

Final Thoughts

This Sarande tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the area’s natural beauty and historic charm. With knowledgeable guides, a relaxed pace, and stunning views, it’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a half-day escape that’s both scenic and meaningful. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning to Albania, the Blue Eye spring and Lekursi Castle provide unforgettable sights and photo opportunities that will linger long after your trip ends.

If you’re after good value, small-group intimacy, and a chance to see two of Sarande’s highlights in one go, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to connect with the landscape and history of Albania’s southern coast.