The Blue Eye half-day Guaranteed excursion from Saranda

This tour starts in the city of Saranda, located on the coast in the southern part of Albania. It was named in honor of the Byzantine monastery of the Agioi Saranda (Forty Martyrs of Sebaste). The Venetians called it Santa Quaranta when they controlled it. During its annexation by the Italians in World War II, Saranda was renamed “Porto Edda” in honor of Mussolini’s daughters. Saranda is included in some cruise itineraries. This is a perfect shore excursion if your cruise includes this lovely destination.

Walk through the promenade of Saranda to visit the ruins of the Synagogue and part of ancient Onhezmi which are located at the very city center of Saranda small town.

Next, you will travel approximately an hour through the Albanian Countryside to the Blue Eye, beautiful natural wonder of swirling water that descends to unknown depths. The Blue Eye is located beneath a small metal balcony that was built so you can get a closer look. Even though swimming has been prohibited via signs, it doesn’t really prevent people from jumping right into the ice-cold water. The Blue Eye is a water spring with extremely light blue water bubbles in a more than 50-meter deep pool. You’ll be mesmerized by how clear the water is, to the point that you’ll be able to see straight to the bottom. Also, make sure you follow the sign that leads to Syri i kaltër, so you don’t miss out on the actual Blue Eye. Divers have attempted to descend into the Blue Eye to calculate its actual depth but it’s still unclear how far the mysterious hole really goes. The initial water source of the 25 km Bistricë River, the Blue Eye is just the starting point of a water path that goes all the way to the Ionian Sea. Of course, the area around the Blue Eye is also quite important since it’s a natural monument where oak and sycamore trees stand out with their beauty.
This amazing natural spring is widely known for its beauty and the legend of its creation: a snake that ate women, children, sheep, shepherds, and crops was defeated by a farmer and his donkey. In the snake’s death throes, his big eye dropped in the spring and continues to cry today. You will have time to explore the area. Transfer back to Saranda with a short stop in Lekursi Castle for some splendid views of Saranda bay, Corfu Island and the surrounding panorama.

Note:
The Blue Eye: There is a narrow trail to get to the spring which may not be suitable for those with walking difficulties.