Agrotourism Mesopotam, Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle Tour

Exploring southern Albania can be a bit like opening a treasure chest—full of surprises, stunning sights, and stories waiting to be uncovered. This 6-hour guided tour from Saranda offers a chance to see some of the region’s most iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and panoramic views, all wrapped into one accessible trip.

What really makes this experience stand out are three things: the chance to marvel at the Blue Eye, a natural spring so clear and vibrant it seems almost unreal; the authentic taste of local cuisine at Mesopotam; and the sweeping vistas from Lekursi Castle that paint a perfect backdrop for photos. One potential consideration is that this tour involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven terrain, which might be a challenge for those with mobility issues. Still, for most, it’s an engaging and well-organized excursion that suits nature lovers, history buffs, and those eager to explore Albania beyond the beaches.

If you love discovering authentic local spots, enjoy stunning landscapes, and want a manageable, well-paced day trip, this tour offers a great introduction to the best of southern Albania. It’s especially suitable if you’re short on time but still want to experience a variety of sights with a knowledgeable guide.

Good To Know

• Stunning Natural Landmark: The Blue Eye offers a mesmerizing spring and lush surroundings.
• Authentic Albanian Cuisine: Enjoy a delicious, locally prepared meal at Mesopotamagrotourism.
• Panoramic Views: Lekursi Castle provides sweeping vistas of Saranda and the coastline.
• Cultural Insight: Guided commentary enriches your understanding of each site’s history.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned transport and a small group make for a relaxed experience.
• Value for Money: At $112, it packs in diverse sights and experiences within a manageable timeframe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Tea Tours Office

The tour begins bright and early at 9 am from the Tea Tours office in Saranda. This central location is convenient for most travelers staying nearby, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

Blue Eye – A Natural Wonder

The first stop is the Blue Eye, one of Albania’s most photographed sites. The drive there takes around 30 minutes, giving you time to relax and soak in the scenery. Once you arrive, you’ll have approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore. You’ll walk around the UNESCO-protected park, which is lush and vibrant, with a rich variety of plant and animal life.

The main attraction, the Blue Eye, is an intense, aquamarine spring emerging from underground, creating a circular pool of crystal-clear water. As one reviewer notes, “The water is so blue and inviting it’s hard not to stare for ages.” It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially with the surrounding greenery and the spring’s natural setting. Some reviews mention that the water is remarkably cool, so bring a jacket if you’re sensitive to cold. Note that while walking around, some uneven paths require moderate mobility, and there’s a consideration for those with mobility challenges.

Lunch at Mesopotam

Next, you’ll head to Mesopotamagrotourism, located just 10-15 minutes from the Blue Eye. Here, you’ll enjoy a traditional Albanian meal at the restaurant, which is part of a local farm and resort. The three menu options mean you can select based on your preferences, whether you’re craving grilled meats, fresh vegetable dishes, or local specialties.

Guests have spoken highly of the delicious, hearty food and the authentic atmosphere. The setting itself is peaceful, with views of the surrounding countryside, and the restaurant’s emphasis on local ingredients makes the meal feel genuine. You’ll have about 1.5 hours at this stop, allowing plenty of time to relax, eat, and take photos of the rustic scenery. Reviewers mention that the staff are friendly and eager to share stories about the farm and the local produce.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lekursi Castle – A Panoramic Finale

The last highlight is Lekursi Castle, situated just a short drive back toward Saranda, where you’ll spend around 30 minutes exploring. This hilltop fortress dates back centuries and offers spectacular views of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and the surrounding landscape.

A guide will walk you through the castle’s history and its cultural significance, providing context and stories that bring the site to life. Many visitors enjoy taking endless photos of the coastline from this vantage point; the lighting at sunset is particularly beautiful. You’re welcome to take as many pictures as you like, and the guide will happily share insights about the castle’s strategic importance in the past.

Return to Saranda

After the castle visit, the guided tour concludes and your group heads back to Saranda. Most trips arrive around mid-afternoon, leaving you with the rest of your day free to explore or relax.

What Makes This Tour Valuable?

Natural Beauty & Unique Landmarks

The Blue Eye is a genuine highlight—it’s not just a pretty picture but a sensory experience. The clarity of the water, combined with the lush park, offers a peaceful pause in your Albanian itinerary. Unlike busy tourist spots, the park maintains a sense of untouched nature, making it worth the visit.

Authentic Local Experience

Eating at Mesopotam isn’t just about the food—it’s about connecting with local life. The farm-to-table approach and the rustic setting give you a taste of rural Albania, which is often overlooked in favor of coastal resorts.

Cultural & Historical Insights

Lekursi Castle is more than just a scenic viewpoint; it’s a piece of history. The guided commentary enriches your understanding of Albania’s past and present, adding depth to your sightseeing.

Convenience & Comfort

The transportation is air-conditioned, making long drives comfortable, especially during warmer months. The small group size ensures personal attention from the guide and a more relaxed pace, ideal for photography and sightseeing.

Price & Value

While $112 might seem like a moderate expense, it includes entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and a guided tour—offering good value for the variety of experiences packed into this half-day trip.

Authenticity & Ease

The tour is well-organized with clear timings, making it suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see multiple highlights without the stress of navigation or planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies who want an authentic taste of southern Albania. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided tours to navigate unfamiliar terrain and appreciate cultural insights. However, it’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues due to some uneven paths and walking involved.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that combines natural beauty, cultural sights, and great food without overextending your schedule, this tour offers a practical and memorable way to experience Albania’s highlights.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from the Tea Tours office in Saranda to each site and back.

How long do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have around 1.5 hours at the Blue Eye, 1.5 hours for lunch at Mesopotam, and 30 minutes at Lekursi Castle.

Can I take photos everywhere?
Absolutely. Photographers will love the panoramic views from Lekursi Castle and the vibrant colors of the Blue Eye.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most children can enjoy the tour, but keep in mind the walking involved around the Blue Eye and uneven paths at the sites.

Are there options for vegetarian or special diets?
The tour offers 3 different menus at the restaurant, so you can select based on your dietary preferences.

How physically demanding is the walk through Blue Eye’s park?
Some paths are uneven and may require moderate mobility; travelers should be prepared for some walking and standing.

What is included in the price?
Entrance tickets to Blue Eye park, guided tours, lunch at Mesopotam, and transportation are all included. Drinks and additional personal expenses are not.

Final Thoughts

In all, this tour offers a compelling snapshot of southern Albania’s natural and cultural richness. The Blue Eye is a highlight that will stay in your memory, while the local cuisine and historic Lekursi Castle add layers of depth and authenticity. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a balanced, well-organized experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural education, all at a reasonable price.

If you’re eager to explore Albania beyond the beaches and want an efficient way to see diverse sights, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate stunning vistas, authentic local flavors, and history without the fuss of planning every detail yourself.

This tour is a great way to learn about the natural beauty and history of Albania for a half-day. It balances scenery, stories, and food, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: