The Blue Eye, Malesia Travel Guide

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

The Blue Eye is a mesmerizing freshwater spring near Sarandë, Albania, known for its vibrant blue hues and lush natural surroundings. It's a popular tourist destination offering a unique glimpse into Albania's natural beauty.

A brief summary to The Blue Eye

Sarande SHA22, Sarandë, 9701, AL
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially during peak season (July and August).
Bring cash in Lek or Euro for entrance fees, parking, and souvenirs, as card payments are not widely accepted.
Wear comfortable shoes for the 20-30 minute walk from the parking area to the Blue Eye.
Pack water and snacks, although there are some overpriced restaurants and cafes near the Blue Eye.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

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Explore The Blue Eye on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Blue Eye, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If driving from Sarandë, follow the SH99 road towards Gjirokastër for approximately 30 minutes (22 km). Look for signs indicating 'Syri i Kaltër' and turn left onto the unpaved road leading to the entrance. Parking costs 300 Lek for 0-3 hours. From the parking lot, it's a 20-30 minute walk to the Blue Eye. Alternatively, a small train or electric scooter can be hired for a fee (300 Lek/one way or 2000 Lek/hour respectively).
Bus

Take a bus from Sarandë towards Gjirokastër and ask the driver to stop at 'Syri i Kaltër'. The bus ticket costs around 450 Lek. From the main road, walk approximately 2 km to the entrance of the Blue Eye. Then follow the paved path for another 20-30 minutes to reach the spring. Remember to confirm that the bus passes by the Blue Eye, as some now take a more direct route.
Taxi

A taxi from Sarandë to the Blue Eye costs approximately 3500-4000 Lek (35-40 EUR) for a round trip, including a 1-2 hour wait. Negotiate the price with the driver before starting the journey. The taxi will take you to the parking area, from where you can walk to the Blue Eye.

Discover more about The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a stunning natural spring located in southern Albania, approximately 22 kilometers east of Sarandë. This popular tourist attraction is named for its striking resemblance to a human eye, with a deep blue center surrounded by lighter blue and green hues. The spring is fed by an underground water source, and the water maintains a constant temperature of around 10 degrees Celsius year-round.Visitors can explore the area surrounding the Blue Eye, which includes a lush forest and the Bistrica River, which originates from the spring. A paved path leads from the parking area to the Blue Eye itself, making it accessible for most visitors. Along the way, you'll find small shops selling souvenirs and refreshments. The vibrant colors of the spring, combined with the serene natural setting, create a truly unforgettable experience.While swimming in the Blue Eye itself is prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem, visitors can enjoy the cool, clear waters of the Bistrica River downstream. The area is perfect for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Albanian countryside. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) to avoid the peak summer crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.