Saranda: Lekursi Castle, Blue Eye, and Gjirokastra Day Trip

Introducing the Saranda Day Trip to Lekursi Castle, Blue Eye, and Gjirokastra
If you’re visiting Saranda and craving a taste of Albania’s scenic beauty and history, this day trip offers a well-rounded peek at some of the country’s most iconic spots. It’s organized by OpenTour Albania, and from what I’ve gathered, it’s a smooth way to see a handful of highlights without the hassle of driving or planning multiple logistics. The tour combines stunning vistas, natural wonders, and cultural treasures, all within a manageable 7-hour window.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides like Ledjon earn rave reviews for their friendly, knowledgeable manner—meaning you’ll learn a lot without feeling overloaded. Second, the timing is well-managed, giving you enough time to explore each site comfortably, avoiding the crowds and rush often experienced on more hurried tours. A possible downside? If you’re hoping for a long, in-depth visit at each spot, this might feel a bit brisk, especially in Gjirokastra, where some reviews suggest the free time could be better optimized. Also, be aware that lunch isn’t included, so planning ahead for snacks or meals is a good idea.

Overall, if you want a balanced, engaging day with a trustworthy guide, this trip offers impressive value. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic views, historical sites, and local culture—ready to stretch their legs and enjoy some of Albania’s finest sights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert local guides like Ledjon make the experience informative and friendly.
• Panoramic views from Lekursi Castle provide a perfect start with stunning vistas of Saranda and Corfu.
• The Blue Eye spring offers a unique natural spectacle that’s well worth the visit, with options to walk or take a short train ride.
• Gjirokastra’s fortress and bazaar blend history and local crafts, with some reviews noting the tour’s good timing to beat crowds.
• Full air-conditioned transportation ensures comfort, especially on hot days, and helps you relax between sites.
• Good value considering the pick-up, guide, entrances, and transportation—though you’ll want cash for extras like the train ride and souvenirs.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting at Saranda’s OpenTour Office

You’ll meet Ledjon, the guide, in front of the OpenTour Albania shop—easy to find, and a friendly face to start your adventure. From there, it’s a short 10-minute van ride to Lekursi Castle, perched on a hill above Saranda. This first stop sets the tone with sweeping views of the Ionian Sea, the Greek island of Corfu, and the city sprawling below. Many reviews note how impressive the panoramic vistas are, making it a perfect photo opportunity, and Ledjon’s commentary adds context without dragging on.

The Scenic Drive to Lekursi Castle

The journey itself is comfortable, with a full air-conditioned van to keep you cool. Expect about 30 minutes of sightseeing as you ascend to the castle, which dates back to Ottoman times. Still, the main draw here is the view—many travelers mention how this spot alone is worth the trip, offering a chance to appreciate Albanian and Greek landscapes from above.

Blue Eye: Nature’s Kaleidoscope

Next, you’ll head to the Blue Eye, a famous karst spring with water so clear you can see all the way to the bottom of its 50-meter depth. It’s a striking contrast—vivid blue waters surrounded by lush greenery. You’ll have an hour and a half here, which is enough to walk around, take photos, or even buy a train ticket (for around 600 Lek). Several reviews praise the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to soak in the tranquility, although swimming is discouraged to protect the spring’s purity and for safety reasons. You might also be interested in taking the short walk (about 1.5 km) from the parking lot if you prefer a gentle hike.

Gjirokastra: The Fortress and Bazaar

The last major stop is Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll visit the castle, which offers spectacular views of the town and the surrounding valley. The fortress is well-preserved, with a mix of Ottoman architecture and history that feels tangible. Ledjon’s guided tour of the castle is highly praised—his explanations are clear and informative, making history accessible.

Following the castle, you’ll explore the Gjirokastra Bazaar, a lively market area where artisans sell handcrafted textiles, pottery, and antiques. The Ottoman-style architecture is charming, and many travelers enjoy browsing the stalls for souvenirs. The tour allocates roughly 90 minutes here, giving you time to enjoy local snacks or pick up a unique gift.

Return to Saranda

After a full day of exploring, your comfortable van will return you to the starting point, typically around 7 hours after departure. The timing is designed to optimize sightseeing and avoid large crowds, as many reviews highlight the benefit of beating the busloads to the Blue Eye and Gjirokastra.

What Makes This Tour a Great Choice?

Knowledgeable Guides Like Ledjon

One consistent highlight from reviews is how guides like Ledjon make the experience engaging. His ability to explain Albanian history clearly and his attentiveness—asking whether you want more time at sites—really elevates the trip. Guests appreciate how guides manage the schedule, ensuring they see the main highlights without feeling rushed.

Comfortable, Full Air-Conditioned Transport

Traveling with a small, air-conditioned van means you remain cool and comfortable, even on hot summer days. Plus, the round-trip service eliminates the hassle of arranging separate transportation, which is especially valuable if you’re unfamiliar with local public transit or prefer a hassle-free experience.

The Stunning Views and Unique Nature Spots

The view from Lekursi and the Blue Eye spring are highlights that will stay with you. Both spots are photogenic and offer a sense of Albania’s natural beauty—something you can cherish long after the trip ends. Many reviewers also mention how the Blue Eye’s clarity and color make it a “must-see,” and they appreciate the opportunity to explore it at their own pace.

Authentic Cultural Experience at Gjirokastra

Walking through the old bazaar and castle immerses you in a place that still feels rooted in Ottoman traditions. The town’s architecture and lively market are authentic and charming, providing a real sense of local life and craftsmanship.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While overall positive, some travelers mention that the free time at Gjirokastra could be longer, especially for those wanting to explore more deeply or enjoy local food. If you’re a history or shopping enthusiast, you might find an extra hour preferable.

Also, lunch isn’t included, so packing a snack or planning to buy from local vendors is wise. The Blue Eye has a walk of about 1.5 km from the parking lot if you skip the train, which is manageable but might be tiring in the heat—so bring water and sun protection.

The train ride at the Blue Eye is optional and costs extra, so keep some cash handy for that and for souvenirs or drinks at the bazaar.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This trip works well for travelers looking for a mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and natural wonders without the hassle of self-driving. It’s ideal if you appreciate guides who share stories and insights and enjoy a comfortable, organized experience. The full-day format suits those with a moderate activity level, and the stops are perfect for photography, light walking, and soaking in the atmosphere.

However, if you’re after a very in-depth exploration of each site or want to spend hours in Gjirokastra, you might prefer a custom or longer tour. Also, if mobility is an issue, note that the walk to Blue Eye and some of the sites involves some walking and uneven surfaces.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

All in all, this day trip from Saranda offers a solid value for travelers eager to see Albania’s highlights without fuss. The combination of panoramic vistas, natural beauty, and historic towns means you’ll leave with a richer sense of what makes this corner of Albania special. The guides like Ledjon are often singled out for their friendliness and knowledge, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

It’s a flexible, well-organized experience that caters to those wanting a taste of Albania’s diverse scenery and heritage. While it’s not a deep-dive into any single site, the balance of stops and the quality of guides make it a worthwhile choice for most visitors—especially if you value comfort, timing, and local insights. Expect great views, interesting stories, and a chance to get a real feel for this beautiful country, all in one manageable day.

FAQ

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the meeting point?
No, the tour includes round-trip van transportation from the OpenTour Albania office in Saranda, making logistics straightforward.

Is there any food included in the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, so it’s smart to bring snacks or plan to buy at the bazaar or local cafes.

How much time do I get at each stop?
The schedule is designed to give you enough time at each site—about 30 minutes at Lekursi, 1.5 hours at Blue Eye, and around 2.5 hours at Gjirokastra, including free time for exploring and shopping.

Can I swim at Blue Eye?
Swimmers are discouraged to preserve the spring’s cleanliness and for safety reasons, given its depth and cold water.

Is the train ride at Blue Eye worth it?
You can opt for a short train ride (about 600 Lek round trip), but it’s optional and not included in the base price. Many find the walk manageable, but the train adds a fun, quick way to see the spring.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While the tour is generally friendly, the walk to Blue Eye involves some walking on uneven surfaces, which might be challenging for those with mobility limitations.

This tour offers a balanced look at some of Albania’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites, all with the benefit of expert guiding and comfortable transport. Perfect for travelers who want a mix of stunning scenery, history, and local flavor in one accessible day.