From Vlora:Tepelene Springs, Gjirokaster & Blue Eye Day Tour

If you’re craving a day filled with stunning landscapes, charming towns, and authentic sights, this tour from Vlora might just be your perfect escape. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines nature, history, and local culture, all wrapped up in a comfortable, small-group package.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see some of Albania’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning. You get to relax in scenic settings like Tepelene Springs, stroll through the historic streets of Gjirokastër, and unwind at the Blue Eye spring—all in one day. Plus, the small group size makes for a more intimate experience, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and charm.

A potential consideration is the overall length—10 hours can be long, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions. The winding roads also mean some parts might be a bit bumpy, but that’s part of the adventure. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of outdoor beauty and cultural sights, and who appreciate a well-organized, affordable day trip.

Good To Know

Stunning natural sights: Including Tepelene Springs and the Blue Eye spring, both offering peaceful, picture-worthy moments.
Rich cultural experience: Exploring Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Ottoman architecture and local crafts.
Expert guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides who share interesting stories and keep the day engaging.
Good value for money: At $100, the tour includes transportation, guided tours, and entry tickets—making it a comprehensive experience.
Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, providing a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
Flexible exploration: Free time at the bazaar and Blue Eye allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Day

This day trip kicks off early, departing from Vlora at 8:30 AM in a comfortable van. The first stop is Tepelene, where you’ll spend around 30 minutes at the famous Uji i Ftohtë springs. Here, the crystal-clear waters invite you to snap photos, take a quick dip if you wish, and enjoy a breath of fresh mountain air. Reviewers mention that the springs are a perfect spot to stretch your legs after the drive and to admire the vivid blue waters. One visitor noted, “We enjoyed the scenic drive and the short stop, which was a great way to start the day.”

Next, the journey takes around 40 minutes to reach Gjirokastër, the UNESCO-listed “Stone City.” When you arrive around 10:45 AM, a guided tour begins, lasting roughly two hours. You’ll explore cobbled streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, visit Gjirokastra Castle, and get a peek into Cold War history with a stop at a Cold War Tunnel. The Old Bazaar is a highlight where you can browse local crafts, buy souvenirs, and sample some Albanian treats at the cafes.

One reviewer raved about their guide, Klaudio, saying, “He took the time to tell us about the history and stories behind every corner. The small, friendly group made everything even more enjoyable.” Free time afterward lets you wander, shop, or relax over a traditional lunch. Gjirokastër’s vibrant atmosphere and historical charm make it a highlight of this trip.

The next leg of the journey is about an hour’s drive to Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), arriving around 2:30 PM. Here, you’ll have about an hour and a half to explore this mesmerizing spring. The water’s rich turquoise color and bubbling sounds make it a photographer’s paradise. Reviewers mention walking along the viewing platforms and capturing unforgettable photos while soaking in the peaceful vibe. One shared, “The Blue Eye is simply breathtaking. The surrounding forest and the cool water make it a perfect stop to relax.”

Afterward, the group departs around 4:00 PM and makes a short stop in Tepelene before heading back to Vlora, arriving around 6:30 PM. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic drive.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable van, ideal for a long day of travel and winding roads. The limited group size (up to 8 participants) ensures that everyone receives personal attention, allowing for more meaningful interaction with guides. Reviewers consistently mention feeling safe and well cared for, thanks to the professional driving and friendly guides, like Klaudio and others.

The Value of the Experience

At $100 per person, this tour delivers a lot for the price. Included are round-trip transportation, guided tours in Gjirokastër, entry tickets to Gjirokastra Castle, and a small bottle of water per person. The free time at each site allows for personal exploration, making the experience flexible and tailored.

Participants frequently praise the organization and guide’s knowledge, noting that it adds depth to the sightseeing. For example, one reviewer shared, “The stories and interesting facts the guide shared made the sights come alive. I felt like I learned a lot, not just saw pretty places.”

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Balanced mix of nature and culture: The stops are well-curated, giving you a taste of both Albania’s natural beauty and historical richness.
• Authentic local experience: Visiting Gjirokastër’s bazaar and exploring the Blue Eye spring provides a genuine sense of the countryside.
• Excellent guide service: From the reviews, guides like Klaudio are praised for their friendliness, storytelling, and flexibility.
• Comfortable logistics: The itinerary is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing and relaxation, with enough free time to enjoy each spot at your own pace.

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Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see diverse highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. Nature lovers will appreciate the springs and Blue Eye, while history buffs will enjoy Gjirokastër’s old town and castle. It’s also ideal for those looking for a small, intimate group with a friendly guide to enhance their journey.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine taste of Albania’s natural and cultural treasures in a single day, with excellent value. The well-organized itinerary, paired with enthusiastic guides and stunning sights, makes for a memorable adventure. Whether you’re a photographer, history enthusiast, or simply eager to explore new landscapes, this trip has a lot to offer.

While the long day might be tiring for some, the variety of stops keeps the experience engaging and diverse. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground and see some of Albania’s most iconic spots in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Overall, if you’re visiting Vlora and want a blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and friendly service, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for small groups that value personal attention and authentic experiences.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs from Vlora at 8:30 AM, giving you a full day of exploration.

How long is the total duration?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, with return to Vlora around 6:30 PM.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a comfortable van with round-trip transportation from Vlora is included.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, and casual clothes are recommended. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning scenery.

Are there any restrictions?
People with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years might find the tour unsuitable due to its nature and terrain.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, and Albanian.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, you’ll have free periods for photos, browsing shops, or relaxing at each site.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, making the experience more personal and less crowded.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but you’ll have time to explore local eateries during your free time in Gjirokastër.

In essence, this day trip from Vlora combines the best of Albania’s natural wonders and historic towns. It’s a well-organized, friendly, and value-packed way to see some of the country’s most captivating sights—highly recommended for those eager to explore beyond the coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: