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The Blue Eye: Albania's Mesmerizing Spring

Discover the enchanting Blue Eye of Albania, a natural spring with mesmerizing turquoise waters and captivating legends, near Sarandë.

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The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a stunning freshwater spring near Sarandë, Albania, known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and lush surroundings. The spring's unknown depth and the constant bubbling of water create the illusion of a human eye, making it a must-see natural wonder.

A brief summary to The Blue Eye

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially during peak season.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the 2-kilometer walk from the parking area to the spring.
  • Bring cash for entrance fees, parking, and souvenirs, as card payments are not widely accepted.
  • Pack your own snacks and drinks, although there is a restaurant and some souvenir shops available.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Sarandë, drive east on SH99 towards Gjirokastër for approximately 30 minutes (22 km). Look for signs indicating Syri i Kaltër. Turn onto the unpaved road and drive for about 2 kilometers to the parking area. Parking costs 300 LEK for 0-3 hours. From the parking lot, walk approximately 20-30 minutes (2.2 km) along the paved path to the Blue Eye. Alternatively, a road train or electric scooter can be rented for an additional fee.

  • Public Transport

    From Sarandë, take a bus heading towards Gjirokastër. Ensure the bus travels via Syri i Kaltër (SH99), as some buses now take a new route. The bus ticket costs approximately 300-450 LEK. Ask the driver to stop at the Blue Eye. From the bus stop, walk approximately 2 kilometers along the unpaved road to the Blue Eye. Entrance fee to the Blue Eye is 50 LEK.

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi from Sarandë for a round trip to the Blue Eye. Negotiate the price beforehand, typically around 3500-4000 LEK, including a 1-2 hour wait time. The taxi will drive you to the parking area, from where you will need to walk approximately 20-30 minutes (2.2 km) along the paved path to the Blue Eye. Entrance fee to the Blue Eye is 50 LEK.

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Discover more about The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), located in the village of Muzinë, near Sarandë, is one of Albania's most captivating natural attractions. This natural spring derives its name from its striking resemblance to a human eye. The crystal-clear, deep blue water bubbles up from an unknown depth, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The surrounding lighter blue-green waters resemble an iris, completing the illusion of an eye. The Blue Eye is the primary water source of the Bistricë River, which stretches for 25 km before emptying into the Ionian Sea. The spring's flow rate is an impressive 18,400 liters per second. Divers have descended to 50 meters, but the actual depth of the karst hole remains a mystery due to the strong water pressure. Throwing a stone into the center results in it quickly resurfacing, demonstrating the powerful force of the spring. Local legends add to the allure of the Blue Eye. One tale speaks of a giant snake that terrorized the region, devouring women, children, and livestock. A brave old man tricked the snake into eating a burning donkey, causing the snake's eye to fall out and create the Blue Eye, which continues to cry to this day. During the communist era, access to the Blue Eye was restricted to the elite. Today, it is open to all, attracting visitors with its cool waters and picturesque setting. A nature monument, the protected area spans 180 hectares and features oak and sycamore trees. While swimming is officially prohibited, some visitors brave the cold, refreshing waters.

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