Crystal-clear water, lush forest, and a hidden gem in the heart of Albania—Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is one of the most magical natural springs in the Balkans. It’s a perfect easy day trip from Saranda, offering unforgettable views at a low cost. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life fairytale.
Keep reading for all the details: how to get there, what to expect, and smart tips for your visit!
Table of Contents
- Why You Should Visit Blue Eye
- Best Time to Visit Blue Eye
- Blue Eye Albania: How to Get There
- Entry Fee and Costs
- How Much Time to Spend at Blue Eye
- What to Bring for a Day at Blue Eye
- Where to Stay
1
Why You Should Visit Blue Eye
Blue Eye isn’t just any old spring—it’s one of Albania’s most magical spots, and trust me, it’s even more stunning in person. Picture this: crystal-clear water bubbling up from a mysterious underwater cave, swirling into the most vibrant shades of blue and green you’ve ever seen.
Here’s the cool part—no one really knows how deep Blue Eye goes! Experts believe it’s over 50 meters, but the current is so strong that even divers haven’t been able to reach the bottom.
Feeling brave? Go ahead and take the plunge! The water stays a shockingly cold 10°C year-round, even on the hottest summer days. It’s definitely not for the faint of heart, but it’s one of those refreshing, “I can’t believe I did that” moments you’ll never forget.
2
Best Time to Visit Blue Eye
The best time to visit Blue Eye is from May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the area. Here are a few tips for planning your visit:
- Early Morning: Arrive early (before 10:00 AM) to avoid the crowds, especially during peak summer months. The serenity of Blue Eye in the early hours is unbeatable.
- Weekdays Over Weekends: Weekends tend to attract more visitors, so aim for a weekday visit for a quieter experience.
- Ideal Seasons: Spring and early summer are perfect because the surrounding vegetation is lush and the water looks even more vibrant under clear skies.
3
Blue Eye Albania: How to Get There
Blue Eye is located about 22 kilometers (35 minutes) northeast of Saranda, making it a popular day trip destination. Here’s how to get there:
From Saranda
- By Car or Scooter: Renting a car or scooter is the most convenient option. You can rent a scooter in Saranda for about €10-20 per day or a car for €30-40 per day.
- Route: Take the SH99 road towards Gjirokastër and follow signs for Blue Eye. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
- Once you arrive, there’s a paid parking area near the entrance. From the parking lot, it’s a 10-minute walk through a shaded trail to reach the spring.
- By Bus: Take a bus from Saranda heading towards Gjirokastër and ask the driver to drop you off near Blue Eye. From the drop-off point, you’ll need to walk about 2 kilometers to the entrance.
- By Guided Tour: If you prefer hassle-free travel, several operators in Saranda offer guided tours to Blue Eye, often combining it with nearby attractions like Butrint or Gjirokastër.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
From Nearby Towns
- Gjirokastër: Blue Eye is about 30 kilometers south of Gjirokastër (around a 40-minute drive). Follow the SH99 road towards Saranda.
- Ksamil: If you’re staying in Ksamil, Blue Eye is a 40-minute drive away. Renting a scooter or car is the most efficient option.
Pro Tip: The trail to the spring from the parking lot is short and easy but can be muddy after rain, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
4
Entry Fee and Costs
One of the best things about visiting Blue Eye is how affordable it is.
- Entrance Fee: 50 Lek per person (€0.50 / 0.70$ CAD).
- Parking Fee: If you’re driving, expect to pay a small parking fee of about 100 Lek (€1).
This low cost makes Blue Eye a budget-friendly must-see attraction for all types of travelers.
5
How Much Time to Spend at Blue Eye
Plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours at Blue Eye. Here’s how you can enjoy your time:
- Take in the Views: Spend some time simply admiring the spring’s beauty from the wooden platform. The water’s color and clarity are absolutely mesmerizing.
- Dip Your Toes (or Dive In!): If you’re adventurous, take a quick swim in the freezing cold water—it’s the ultimate adrenaline rush!
- Explore the Trails: There are small trails around the area where you can enjoy a peaceful walk through nature. The surrounding forest adds to the magical atmosphere.
- Relax by the Café: There’s a small café near the spring where you can grab a drink or snack and enjoy the view.
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6
What to Bring for a Day at Blue Eye
To make the most of your trip to Blue Eye, here’s a quick checklist of essentials:
- Swimwear: If you’re brave enough to take a dip.
- Microfiber Towel and Change of Clothes: For after your swim. Click here for my favorite microfiber towel.
- Water and Snacks: While there’s a café, it’s always good to have some extras.
- Camera or Phone: To capture the stunning scenery.
- Sunscreen and Hat: The trail and area around the spring are partially shaded, but the sun can still be strong.
7
Where to Stay
The best place to stay when visiting Blue Eye is Saranda, as it’s the closest city with a variety of accommodation options. From budget hostels to beachfront hotels, you’ll find something that suits your needs.
If you prefer a quieter stay, Ksamil or Gjirokastër are also great options and are not too far from Blue Eye.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Albania blue water is one of the most magical experiences you can have in Albania. Its stunning natural beauty, vibrant water, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit destination, whether you’re an adventurous swimmer or just someone who appreciates breathtaking scenery.
With its easy accessibility, low entry cost, and proximity to other attractions like Gjirokastër and Butrint, Blue Eye is perfect for a quick day trip or a longer adventure.
So grab your swimwear, camera, and sense of adventure—you won’t want to miss this Albanian gem!
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