Sarande: Blue Eye Kayak and walking tour & Lekursi Castle

Imagine a half-day filled with crystal-clear waters, panoramic mountain and sea views, and plenty of opportunities to relax and snap great photos. That’s exactly what a guided tour from Sarande to the Blue Eye Spring and Lekursi Castle offers. With a good balance of adventure, history, and natural beauty, this experience promises a memorable slice of Albanian scenery, all wrapped up in about 4.5 hours.

What really appeals is the chance to kayak in one of Albania’s most stunning natural wonders, explore a historic hilltop fortress, and enjoy free time in a peaceful environment. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make it accessible and easy to enjoy. On the flip side, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, and you’ll need to bring cash for extra purchases.

This trip is perfect for travelers who love a mix of outdoor activity, scenic views, and cultural insights without spending a whole day on the road. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a beautiful, relaxing experience, this tour ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Beautiful Natural Setting: Kayak in the Blue Eye Spring, one of Albania’s most breathtaking natural sites
• Historical Views: Learn about Albania’s history from Lekursi Castle lookout
• Balanced Experience: Combines active kayaking, scenic sightseeing, and free exploration time
• Guided and Comfortable: Led by knowledgeable guides in air-conditioned vehicles
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, equipment, entry fees, and a memorable natural experience
• Some Limitations: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges; bring cash for extra expenses

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Sarande, where you’ll meet your guide at OpenTour Albania’s office. Ledjon, the guide, is often highlighted for his friendliness and wealth of knowledge about Albania’s sights and history. The transfer to Lekursi Castle takes about 10 minutes in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day. The small group sizes and professional organization ensure you’re well looked after, and reviews mention that communication is clear, making last-minute bookings a breeze.

Visiting Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views and History

Your first stop is the historic Lekursi Castle, perched high above Sarande with sweeping views over the Ionian Sea. The 30-minute stop includes free time to wander and take photos, along with a guided explanation of its story and significance. Reviewers describe this as a “guided tour” with “beautiful views,” emphasizing how it offers a great chance to get a sense of Albania’s past while enjoying the scenery. The castle provides a wonderful vantage point to see the surrounding coastline and hills, making it an ideal photo backdrop.

The Drive to Blue Eye

Next up is a scenic 30-minute drive through Albanian countryside, giving you a glimpse of local life and lush landscapes. This part of the journey builds anticipation for the main event—the Blue Eye.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Kayaking in the Blue Eye

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the kayaking experience at Blue Eye Spring. After a short walk of about 7 minutes from the parking area to the kayak dock, you’ll be fitted with safety gear and given a quick briefing. The actual kayak trip lasts approximately 1.5 hours, during which you’ll paddle through the transparent waters of the spring, surrounded by untouched nature.

Reviews from past participants highlight how “the scenery was absolutely incredible”, and that kayaking was a “huge amount of fun.” One guest, Melissa, mentioned that “it was such a hot day” and being able to swim in the cool, fresh water was a real treat. The water’s vivid turquoise hue makes for stunning photos, and the peaceful atmosphere allows for plenty of relaxation or just taking in the natural beauty.

Blue Eye Spring Exploration and Free Time

After anchoring your kayaks, there is time on foot to explore the area further. A picturesque trail leads to the spring itself, where guides share fascinating insights about this natural phenomenon. Visitors often comment on how “the scenery was absolutely incredible,” with many appreciating the chance to take photos, enjoy a coffee, or just soak in the peaceful surroundings. Be aware that the terrain involves some clambering and uneven surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Additional Break and Photos

Following the kayaking, the tour includes a break of around an hour, which is perfect for snapping photos, enjoying a drink, or simply relaxing by the water. Reviewers like Melissa appreciated the “free time to capture stunning photos” and remarked that the natural beauty is even more breathtaking in person.

Walking to the Blue Eye Spring

The walk to the spring is about 17 minutes—gentle and scenic—and offers further opportunities for photos or spotting local flora and fauna. It’s a nice way to stretch your legs after kayaking and for those wanting to learn more about the site from your guide.

Return Journey and Final Stop

After the walk and some leisure time at Blue Eye, the group boards the van for a 30-minute drive back towards Sarande, ending the tour at the same meeting point. Many reviews emphasize how well-organized the entire process is, allowing for a relaxed and enjoyable visit without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour package covers round-trip transportation, kayak and safety equipment, entry fee to Blue Eye, and guidance. This makes it excellent value, especially considering all the logistical details are handled for you.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point if you’re staying elsewhere. Also, bring cash for additional services, like drinks or souvenirs, as the tour areas don’t accept cards.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for the walk to and from the spring.
• Bring a camera, sun hat, and sunscreen for protection.
• Pack a small waterproof bag for personal items.
• Remember to bring water and snacks for extra energy.
• Prepare for some physical activity—sturdy footwear is advisable for uneven terrain.

Why This Tour Works

Past guests consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides—Ledjon and Anna often stand out for their friendliness and informative commentary. Several reviewers mention how much they appreciated the organization and communication which makes last-minute planning much easier.

The combination of kayaking, scenic views, and historical insights makes this tour appealing for those who want a well-rounded experience. It balances active adventure with moments of peaceful reflection—perfect for travelers seeking both fun and tranquility.

The Value for Money

Considering the cost includes transportation, equipment, entry fees, and guided commentary, many find this tour offers excellent value. Melissa described it as a “great experience” at a “great value for money,” and with the added bonus of free time for swimming and photos, it’s easy to see why.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers who don’t mind a bit of physical activity. It’s also well-suited to history and nature enthusiasts wanting to see Albania’s natural splendors without spending hours on the road.

Keep in mind, if you have mobility issues or require wheelchair access, this may not be suitable due to uneven terrain and walking involved. Also, bring cash if you’d like to purchase food or souvenirs, as card payments are not accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts and ends at the designated meeting point in Sarande. You will need to arrange your own transport to and from the meeting location.

How long is the kayaking activity?
The kayak session lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy paddling and swimming in the Blue Eye Lake.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, water, sunscreen, and a small waterproof bag are recommended. Bringing cash is also advised for extra purchases.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, it involves some walking and physical activity, so children should be able to handle outdoor terrain and water activities.

Can I swim in the Blue Eye Spring?
Yes, there is free time for swimming and exploring the area. Many guests enjoy taking a dip in the cool, clear waters after kayaking.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Kayaking in the Blue Eye Spring, panoramic views from Lekursi Castle, and the opportunity to capture stunning photos in a peaceful natural setting.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Sarande offers a thoughtfully curated mix of adventure, scenery, and history, all packed into a manageable 4.5-hour experience. The chance to kayak in the Blue Eye Spring provides a unique and unforgettable perspective on Albania’s natural beauty, while the visit to Lekursi Castle offers a taste of the country’s historical charm.

With highly praised guides like Ledjon and Anna, the organization is smooth, and the natural scenery is truly breathtaking. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting an active yet relaxed half-day trip that balances stunning landscapes with cultural insights.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic outing that’s good value for money and offers plenty of opportunities for photos and fun, this tour deserves a spot on your Albanian itinerary. Just come prepared for some walking, bring cash for extras, and get ready to enjoy some of the country’s finest sights.

You can check if your dates are available here: