Visit the National Park of Blue Eye and the Fortress of Lekuresi in Saranda

If you’re looking for a relaxing and informative tour while visiting Saranda, don’t miss the chance to explore the National Park of Blue Eye and the Fortress of Lekuresi. This group tour offers hassle-free hotel pickup and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a live guide to accompany you to both locations. With included entry fees, you can enjoy a day full of sightseeing and learning about the history of the area.

Overview

The National Park of Blue Eye is a natural pool consisting of a crystal clear blue water source and surrounded by green flora. This enchanting natural wonder is located outside of Saranda and offers a peaceful and relaxing environment. Lekuresi Castle is an archaeological site located on top of a hill overlooking Saranda, offering a panoramic view of the city and the Ionian Sea. Combining those two locations in one tour offers an incredible opportunity to experience both natural and historical beauty.

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel or the designated meeting point, the Port of Saranda. You’ll then travel outside of the city to the National Park of Blue Eye. Your guide will accompany you to the natural pool, where you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the blue water source and green surroundings. Your guide will provide interesting insights about the area’s history and nature. After visiting the National Park of Blue Eye, you’ll travel up to the hilltop fortress of Lekuresi Castle. Here, you’ll have a panoramic view of the city of Saranda and the Ionian Sea. The guide will provide detailed information on the castle’s history and significance in the region. The tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel or the meeting point.

What’s Included

You can expect a hassle-free tour with the following inclusions:

• Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
• Live guide to accompany you to both locations
• Included entry fees for the National Park of Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle

Meeting and Pickup Information

You can head directly to the Port of Saranda meeting point or schedule a pickup from your hotel or another designated pickup location. The meeting point address is V2C3+H76 Sarandë Albania. The tour operates seven days a week, from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, visiting the National Park of Blue Eye and the Fortress of Lekuresi in Saranda is an excellent way to spend a day exploring the natural and historical beauty of the region. With this hassle-free tour, you’ll have a comfortable mode of transportation, an informative guide to accompany you, and included entry fees at both locations. Book your tour now and experience the dazzling blue waters of the National Park of Blue Eye and the picturesque views from Lekuresi Castle.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saranda, Albania

If you’re planning to visit Saranda, Albania, you’re probably wondering about things like the best time to visit, what to see and do, where to eat, and how to get around. In this FAQ, we will answer the most common questions about Saranda to help you plan your travel to this beautiful city in Southern Albania.

1. When is the best time to visit Saranda?

Saranda can be visited all year round, but the best time to go is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea is suitable for swimming. During this time, Saranda is also very lively, with many events and festivals taking place. July and August are the busiest months, and some beaches can get crowded, so it’s best to book accommodation and tours in advance.

2. How do I get to Saranda?

The easiest way to get to Saranda is by flying to Tirana International Airport and then taking a bus, taxi or renting a car to Saranda. The airport is about 300 km away from Saranda, and the drive usually takes about 4-5 hours. You can also take a ferry from Corfu, Greece, which is only 14 km away from Saranda, and the ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.

3. What are the top attractions in Saranda?

Saranda is famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historical landmarks. Some of the top tourist attractions in Saranda are:

• Butrint National Park
• The Blue Eye
• Lekursi Castle
• Syri i Kalter (the Blue Eye)
• Ksamil Islands
• Saranda Promenade
• St. George Monastery
• Museum of Archaeology

4. Where are the best beaches in Saranda?

Saranda has several beaches, and the best ones are Ksamil Beach, Pasqyra Beach, and Mirror Beach. These beaches are famous for their crystal-clear waters and white sand. Ksamil Beach is a small, picturesque village that is surrounded by crystal clear waters and beautiful landscapes. Pasqyra Beach is a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the mountains. Mirror Beach is a hidden cove with crystal blue waters and a beautiful beach. There are also several other beaches around Saranda that are worth visiting, such as Santa Quaranta Beach and Mango Beach.

5. What are some traditional Albanian dishes I must try in Saranda?

Albanian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences, and Saranda has many traditional Albanian restaurants that serve delicious food. Some of the dishes you must try while in Saranda are:

• Tave Kosi – This is a traditional Albanian dish made with lamb, yogurt, and egg.
• Qofte – These are Albanian meatballs made with beef or lamb.
• Fergese – This is a cheesy dish made with peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
• Pite – This is a traditional Albanian pastry, which can be savory or sweet.
• Baklava – This is a sweet pastry made with nuts, honey, and filo dough.

6. What is the currency used in Saranda, and where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Albania is the Lek (ALL). You can exchange money at local banks, exchange offices, and some hotels. It’s also easy to withdraw money from ATMs, which are available throughout the city.

7. What are some popular day trips from Saranda?

Saranda is located near many interesting places that you can visit as a day trip. Some of the popular day trips from Saranda are:

• Blue Eye – This is a natural spring with blue water, located near the village of Muzina. The water is so clear that you can see down to a depth of 50 meters.
• Butrint National Park – This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the ruins of an ancient Greek and Roman city. The park is located about 20 km south of Saranda.
• Gjirokastra – This is a UNESCO-protected town with Ottoman-era architecture and cobblestone streets. The town is located about 60 km north of Saranda.
• The Albanian Riviera – This is a stretch of coastline south of Saranda that is famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this FAQ has helped answer some of your questions about Saranda, Albania. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach or exploring historical landmarks, Saranda has something to offer everyone. Don’t forget to try the traditional Albanian cuisine and take a day trip to explore the surrounding areas. Have a great trip!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Saranda

If you’re planning a trip to Albania, the charming coastal city of Saranda could be the perfect destination for you. Saranda offers a wide range of attractions and activities for tourists, whether you’re interested in history, architecture, outdoor sports, or just relaxing on the beach. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the best things to do in Saranda, so you can make the most of your time there.

1. Visit the Ancient City of Butrint

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Saranda is the ancient city of Butrint, which is located just 20 km south of the city. Butrint is an important archaeological site that has been inhabited for over 2,500 years, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When you visit Butrint, you can explore the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre, a Byzantine basilica, a Venetian fortress, and other fascinating structures. You’ll also see beautiful mosaics, statues, and other artifacts that have been excavated at the site. There are several hiking trails through the Butrint National Park that lead to the different sections of the ancient city, so you can explore at your own pace.

2. Enjoy the Beaches

Saranda is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are several to choose from depending on your preferences. Some of the most popular beaches include:

• Pasqyra Beach: This beach is located on the outskirts of Saranda and is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning views.
• Ksamil Beach: This beach is located about 15 km south of Saranda and is known for its white sand and turquoise water. You can take a taxi or a bus to get there.
• Mango Beach: This beach is located about 10 km north of Saranda and is known for its calm water and beautiful surroundings.

3. Take a Boat Tour

One of the best ways to see the coastline of Saranda is to take a boat tour. You can choose from several different options, including:

• Blue Eye Tour: This tour takes you to the Blue Eye, a natural spring that resembles a blue eye in the middle of the forest. You’ll also see several other natural attractions, such as the Bora Waterfall and the Syri i Kalter (Blue Eye) Beach.
• Butrint Lake Tour: This tour takes you on a relaxing boat ride through the Butrint National Park, where you can see a variety of wildlife and beautiful scenery. You’ll also have the option to stop at Ksamil Beach and other nearby attractions.
• St. George Island Tour: This tour takes you to St. George Island, which is located just off the coast of Saranda. You can relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, swim in the crystal-clear water, and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the island’s restaurants.

4. Explore the Saranda Promenade

The Saranda Promenade is a beautiful waterfront walkway that stretches for several kilometers along the coastline. You can walk, jog, or bike along the promenade while enjoying views of the Ionian Sea and the cityscape. Along the way, you’ll also find several restaurants, cafes, and shops where you can sample local cuisine and buy souvenirs.

5. Visit the Lekursi Castle

If you’re interested in history and panoramic views, a visit to the Lekursi Castle is a must. This 16th century castle is located on a hilltop overlooking Saranda and the surrounding area, and it offers some of the best views in the region. You can climb to the top of the castle’s tower to see the sunset and take unforgettable photos.

6. Try the Local Cuisine

Albanian cuisine is known for its delicious Mediterranean flavors and fresh ingredients. In Saranda, you can find a variety of traditional restaurants and cafes where you can sample local specialties such as:

• Tave Kosi: A savory dish made with lamb or goat meat, rice, and yogurt sauce.
• Baklava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey or syrup.
• Byrek: A savory pastry made with phyllo dough and filled with cheese, spinach, meat, or vegetables.

7. Attend a Local Festival or Event

Throughout the year, Saranda hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events that showcase Albania’s rich heritage and traditions. Some of the most popular events include:

• Saranda Summer Festival: A month-long festival that takes place in July and August, featuring music concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events.
• Butrint Summer Festival: A two-week festival that takes place in August and includes music, theater, and dance performances at the ancient site of Butrint.
• Wine Festivals: Several wine festivals take place throughout the year in Saranda and other parts of Albania, where you can taste local wines and learn about the country’s winemaking traditions.

Book Your Tour Now

Saranda is a beautiful and diverse city that has something to offer every type of tourist. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, sports, or just relaxing on the beach, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Saranda, and we wish you a wonderful adventure!