Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and walking tour & Lekursi Castle

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Gems: Sarande’s Blue Eye Kayak and Walking Tour & Lekursi Castle

This experience offers a well-rounded taste of Albania’s natural beauty and history, starting with a scenic drive from Sarande to visit Lekursi Castle with its panoramic views, then heading to the Blue Eye Spring for kayaking and exploring its incredible turquoise waters. The tour is designed to give you a relaxed yet adventure-packed four and a half hours, perfect for those who want a mix of sightseeing and outdoor fun.

What really stands out are the expert guides who bring the places to life — a common theme in reviews is how knowledgeable Ledjon and Anna are. I especially appreciate how the tour balances scenic photo opportunities with genuine time to relax and enjoy swimming or walking around the Blue Eye. The value for money seems quite good considering all the included elements like transportation, kayak gear, and entry fees.

A potential hiccup could be mobility or footwear limitations — the uneven trails and jumping in and out of kayaks might not suit everyone, particularly those with reduced mobility or who aren’t comfortable with minor physical activity. Also, bring some cash for bars or small purchases, as cards aren’t accepted at the Blue Eye area.

This tour is a fantastic option for travelers craving authentic scenery, engaging guides, and a mix of history and nature — especially if you don’t mind a bit of physical activity and want to maximize your time exploring Albania’s stunning spots.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert guides like Ledjon and Anna make the experience informative and easy to follow.
• Scenic kayaking at Blue Eye offers both adventure and tranquility amid untouched nature.
• Stunning photo opportunities abound, especially at the Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle.
• Good value for money as the tour includes all transportation, entry fees, and equipment.
• Limited mobility options due to uneven trails and water activities; not suitable for everyone.
• Bring cash and essentials like water, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes for walking and kayaking.

Discovering Albania’s Natural Wonder: The Blue Eye Spring

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the Blue Eye Spring — a stunning natural phenomenon with water so clear it almost seems artificial. The tour starts with a short walk from the parking area through lush, quiet nature to reach the kayak dock. The 7-minute paddle across the lake is surprisingly smooth, with crystal-clear waters surrounding you, revealing the rocky bottom and vibrant marine life.

Reviewers rave about the serenity of kayaking here. Melissa remarked, “It was such a hot day, it was really nice to be able to kayak to the Blue Eye and swim in the fresh water,” highlighting how refreshing and relaxing this part of the tour can be. The water’s vivid turquoise hue is a perfect backdrop for photos, making it an Instagram-ready spot. You’ll also have enough time to swim and just enjoy the peaceful quiet of this pristine spot.

The kayaking segment lasts about an hour and a half, giving you ample time to explore and soak up the atmosphere. Some reviews point out the harder sections of kayaking are worth trying — they’re more challenging, but heaps of fun for those with a bit of paddling experience. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes and consider bringing a small waterproof bag for your valuables.

Visiting Lekursi Castle: A Viewpoint with a Touch of History

After your water adventure, you’ll stop at Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Sarande and the Ionian Sea. This 30-minute stop isn’t just about the views — your guide will share snippets of the castle’s history, giving you context about this Ottoman-era fortress. The sweeping panorama from here is spectacular and offers plenty of opportunities for photos.

According to reviews, Ledjon’s storytelling makes the visit engaging without overwhelming. Melissa enjoyed the insights about Albania’s history, and the view itself is enough to warrant the stop. It’s a quick visit but a worthwhile one, especially when the Mediterranean sun is shining.

Walking the Scenic Trail to Blue Eye

Following the kayak adventure, you’ll take a leisurely walk along a picturesque trail leading to the Blue Eye Spring. This part of the tour offers a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy more natural scenery. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views, making it a lovely break from water activities.

Once at the spring, you can spend time taking photos, enjoying a coffee, or simply marveling at nature’s artistry. Melissa and other travelers note how the organization is smooth, ensuring everyone gets a chance to appreciate the spot without feeling rushed.

Logistics, Logistics, Logistics

The tour begins with a pick-up in Sarande and involves comfortable transportation — a modern, air-conditioned van that makes the roughly 10-minute drive to Lekursi Castle easy and stress-free. From there, the trip proceeds to Blue Eye, with several stops along the way, like Muzinë, for walking or breaks.

The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, making it manageable for most day plans. Keep in mind, no hotel pickup is included, so you’ll meet at the OpenTour Albania office, which is straightforward to find. Be prepared to bring cash, as the bars and restaurants at Blue Eye don’t accept cards, and small tips or snacks may be appreciated.

The tour is particularly suitable for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, outdoor activity, and learning about Albanian culture. It’s not ideal if you have mobility challenges or dislike physical activity, since some walking, climbing, and paddling are involved.

Price and Value Analysis

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the reviews repeatedly highlight the great value — considering that transportation, kayak gear, park entry fees, and guiding services are included. The positive comments about guides’ knowledge and the organized nature of the trip suggest it’s a well-priced experience for what you get.

For solo travelers, couples, or small groups, it offers an authentic way to see some of Albania’s most striking natural sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prefer a guided experience that balances adventure with comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and learning local stories. If you’re a fan of kayaking or just want a memorable way to see the Blue Eye, this tour fits the bill. It’s also ideal for those wanting a taste of history through the Lekursi Castle stop.

Keep in mind, it’s best suited for folks who can handle a little walking and some uneven terrain. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities could find this especially fun.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging day trip from Sarande that combines natural beauty, history, and outdoor activity, this tour delivers. The guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your Albanian itinerary. The opportunity to kayak in such a serene setting is a highlight that sticks with many travelers — as Melissa noted, “It’s breathtaking.”

The tour’s value for money is hard to beat when you consider all that’s included, especially if you’re keen on capturing stunning photos and experiencing Albania’s unspoiled landscapes firsthand. Just plan ahead by bringing cash, sturdy shoes, and sun protection, and you’ll have a memorable, authentic adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Sarande is included in the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, a camera, water, and a small waterproof bag for valuables. Also, cash for bars or restaurant stops.

Is it suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to uneven trails and physical activities involved.

How long is the kayaking?
The kayaking lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with plenty of time to enjoy swimming and the scenery.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Check availability for starting times; generally, mornings or early afternoons work well to avoid the midday heat.

Are there any restrictions on clothing?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for water and walking, and bring swimwear if you plan to swim.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for last-minute plans.

Do I need to pay extra for entry fees?
No, the Blue Eye entry fee is included in the tour price.

Is alcohol or food available during the tour?
Not in the vehicle; however, you can buy food and drinks at the Blue Eye area using cash.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a wonderful mix of Albania’s natural beauty and history, guided by friendly experts. Whether you’re snapping photos, paddling across Blue Eye, or soaking in the views from Lekursi Castle, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories.