Hidden Gems Tour: Saranda, Blue Eye, Ksamil & Lekursi Castle

Traveling through Albania can feel like uncovering a secret world just waiting to be explored. This Hidden Gems Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and local charm, making it perfect for travelers who want more than the usual tourist trail. From the lively coastal town of Saranda to the pristine beaches of Ksamil, and the breathtaking Blue Eye spring, each stop is thoughtfully curated to give you an authentic taste of this lesser-known Mediterranean jewel.

What really sets this tour apart is the local expertise of guides who bring each site to life, the comfortable private transport, and the flexibility to enjoy each stop at a relaxed pace. While it’s a relatively short experience—just five hours—you’ll return with plenty of photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for Albania’s hidden treasures. One thing to keep in mind: it’s a quick-paced tour, so if you’re looking for extensive exploration or a lazy day on the beach, this might not suit you.

This experience is ideal for travelers craving a well-rounded introduction to Albania’s natural wonders and cultural sites without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tours with a personal touch, and if you appreciate having all transportation and entry tickets taken care of. For those seeking a deeper, more leisurely experience, you might want to extend your time at key stops or combine this with other adventures.

• Concise Itinerary: Focused on highlights with a mix of natural beauty and historical sites.
• Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides who offer insights beyond the guidebook.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private air-conditioned transport and all entry tickets included.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants for a personalized experience.
• Flexible & Short: Perfect for a quick taste of Albania’s top hidden spots.
• Value for Money: All logistics covered, making it a hassle-free day trip.

Starting in Saranda

The tour begins with a pickup right from your hotel in Saranda, a lively coastal town known for its Mediterranean vibe and friendly atmosphere. We loved the way the guides—whose names we wish we knew—greeted everyone with enthusiasm, making us feel like we were exploring with friends rather than strangers. Saranda itself is a good base, with plenty of seaside cafes and a relaxed ambiance that hints at Albania’s warm hospitality.

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The Blue Eye: Nature’s Hidden Treasure

The first major stop is the Blue Eye spring. This natural wonder is famous for its stunning, almost hypnotic, blue waters that seem to glow against the surrounding greenery. The site is a natural spring fed by underground rivers, creating a mesmerizing spectacle perfect for photos. Visitors are encouraged to take a guided tour, learn about the spring’s mysterious depths, and enjoy some free time to soak in the scenery.

Travelers who have already visited popular sites often highlight the Blue Eye’s pristine beauty—something that feels almost untouched. One reviewer noted, “The blue waters are just as captivating as I’d read,” adding that the hour-long stop was well-paced, giving enough time for photos and a short walk around the area. The site’s natural setting offers a peaceful escape from the busy tourist spots.

Ksamil: Beach Paradise

Next, the tour takes us to Ksamil, a small village famed for its pristine beaches and clear waters. With 1.5 hours allocated, we wandered along the shoreline, admired the tiny islets just offshore, and took some stunning photos. The guides provided local insights, explaining how Ksamil became a hotspot for both locals and international visitors seeking a quiet beach retreat.

The reviews reveal that this stop is a hit for its scenic beauty and relax-ability. “Everything went smoothly, and the beaches truly are picture-perfect,” one guest shared. If you’re into seaside strolls or just want to dip your toes in the water, Ksamil offers a lovely, unhurried vibe. Remember to bring your towel and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense.

Lekursi Castle: Panoramic Views & History

The final stop is Lekursi Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Saranda and the Ionian Sea. A quick 20-minute guided visit gives you a taste of Albanian history while also offering some of the best panoramic views of the coastline. Many guests have described the scenery as breathtaking, especially at sunset—perfect for those memorable photos.

The guide shared some local stories, making the short tour both informative and entertaining. The castle’s strategic location means you’ll likely want to spend a few extra minutes soaking in the vistas, which make for great photo opportunities.

Return to Saranda

After this scenic crescendo, the group is comfortably transported back to Saranda, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The entire experience, while brief, hits a perfect balance between guided exploration and free time, leaving most travelers satisfied and eager to return for a deeper dive into Albania’s treasures.

The all-inclusive price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable guide, and entry tickets. This means no stress over logistics or extra costs—just show up and enjoy. The tour’s small group setup (limited to six people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, which many travelers find worthwhile.

While there’s no included lunch or drinks, that’s a small trade-off for the convenience and depth of experience you get with this itinerary. Plus, the timing is flexible enough to fit into most travel schedules, making it easy to add to a day of exploring Saranda or nearby attractions.

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The Value of Guided Local Expertise

Travelers particularly appreciated the guides’ knowledge—one review specifically mentioned how attentive and well-informed the guide was. This local insight transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful, memorable experience, especially at sites like Lekursi Castle and the Blue Eye, where stories behind the sights add context and depth.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around sites like the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle.
• Bring sunscreen, a towel, and swimwear if you want to enjoy Ksamil’s beaches.
• The duration is approximately five hours, so plan to start in the morning or early afternoon.
• The tour runs in small groups, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a compact, well-organized experience covering key natural and historical sites without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you prefer guided visits, appreciate local insights, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing with free time for photos or brief relaxing moments. Because it’s a short day trip, it suits those with tight schedules or who prefer not to spend an entire day on excursions.

If you’re after an in-depth exploration of each site or want to spend more time lounging on the beach, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Still, for a quick, engaging introduction to Albania’s hidden gems, it offers excellent value and a high level of comfort.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately five hours, including transportation, guided visits, and free time at each stop.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience very convenient.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear are recommended, especially for the Ksamil stop.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most adults and children, provided they can comfortably walk around sites like the Blue Eye and Lekursi Castle.

Can I customize the tour?
This particular tour is pre-planned, but the flexible scheduling allows you to enjoy each site at your own pace during the allocated time.

Is there a guide available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide. If you require a different language, check with the provider as options may vary.

For those seeking a well-curated taste of Albania’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks, this Hidden Gems Tour offers an engaging, smooth experience. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value local guides, comfortable transport, and efficient scheduling. With a mix of stunning sites like Blue Eye, relaxing beaches at Ksamil, and panoramic views from Lekursi Castle, it delivers a memorable snapshot of Albanian coastal charm.

While it’s not meant for those wanting to linger extensively at each site, it provides a balanced, value-packed introduction for first-time visitors or anyone looking to tick off several highlights in a single morning or afternoon. The small group size ensures personal attention, and the inclusion of tickets and transport makes it an easy, stress-free option.

In summary, this tour is best for curious explorers who want to see the best of Albania’s hidden corners without the fuss, enjoying local insights and scenic beauty along the way. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, you’ll find this experience a worthwhile way to discover some of Albania’s lesser-known treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: