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The Blue Eye: Albania's Mesmerizing Spring

Discover the enchanting Blue Eye of Albania, a natural spring with mesmerizing blue waters and lush surroundings, near Sarandë.

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The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a stunning freshwater spring near Sarandë, Albania, known for its vibrant blue colors and natural beauty. This popular tourist attraction offers a unique glimpse into Albania's natural wonders, drawing visitors with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to The Blue Eye

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Sarande SHA22, Sarandë, 9701, AL
Monday
8 am-8 pm
Tuesday
8 am-8 pm
Wednesday
8 am-8 pm
Thursday
8 am-8 pm
Friday
8 am-8 pm
Saturday
8 am-8 pm
Sunday
8 am-8 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Blue Eye.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds, especially during the peak summer months.
Wear comfortable shoes for the 2.2 km walk from the parking area to the spring.
Bring cash for entrance fees, parking, and souvenirs.
Consider visiting in May-June or September-October for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

Discover more about The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), located near Sarandë, is one of Albania's most captivating natural landmarks. This powerful freshwater spring creates a mesmerizing pool of deep blue water, resembling a human eye with its dark center and lighter blue-green periphery. The spring is the most potent in Albania, with an average flow of 6 m³/s, feeding into the Bistrica River.The Blue Eye is more than 50 meters deep, though its exact depth remains unknown. The surrounding nature reserve spans 180 hectares, offering a serene environment with lush greenery. Visitors can explore the area, taking in the stunning views and enjoying the refreshing atmosphere. The site includes a restaurant and souvenir shops.To fully appreciate the Blue Eye, it's best to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds that gather during peak season. Despite its popularity, the Blue Eye remains a must-see destination, showcasing Albania's unique natural beauty and offering a tranquil escape.

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    Getting There

    Public Transport

    From Sarandë, take a bus heading towards Gjirokastër and ask the driver to stop at Syri i Kaltër. The bus ride costs approximately 300-450 Lek. From the main road, it's a 2.2 km walk to the Blue Eye. Alternatively, the KMG Tourist Shuttle offers round trips from Sarandë for 1400 Lek. Make sure to confirm that the bus is traveling via Syri i Kaltër, as some buses now take a faster route.

    Taxi

    A taxi from Sarandë to the Blue Eye costs around 3500-4000 Lek for a round trip, including a 90-minute to 2-hour wait. Negotiate the price beforehand and bring cash. Taxis are readily available in Sarandë.

    Car

    Driving from Sarandë, follow the SH99 towards Gjirokastër. The drive is approximately 30-45 minutes. Parking near the entrance costs 300 Lek for 0-3 hours. From the parking area, walk 2.2 km to the Blue Eye. Consider renting an electric scooter for 5 EUR per hour or taking the small train for 3 EUR one way to shorten the walk.

    A brief summary to The Blue Eye

    Use The Blue Eye as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

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