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The Blue Eye: Albania's Mystical Spring

Discover the enchanting Blue Eye of Albania, a natural spring with mesmerizing beauty and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a unique travel experience.

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The Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter) is a stunning freshwater spring near Sarandë, Albania, known for its mesmerizing blue hues and natural beauty. The spring is the source of the Bistrica River and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique natural attraction.

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 sturdy shoes as there is a 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.
  • Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks, although there is a restaurant on-site.
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Getting There

  • Car

    The Blue Eye is located approximately 22 kilometers east of Sarandë. From Sarandë, take the SH99 road towards Gjirokastër. The drive takes about 30-45 minutes. There is a parking lot near the entrance to the Blue Eye National Park. Parking fees range from 300 LEK for 0-3 hours to 1200 LEK for 9-24 hours. From the parking lot, it is a 2-kilometer walk to the Blue Eye.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Sarandë towards Gjirokastër and ask the driver to stop at Syri i Kaltër. Ensure the bus is traveling via the SH99 and not the new route via Kardhiq. The bus ride costs approximately 300-450 LEK. From the bus stop on the main road, walk approximately 2 kilometers to the entrance of the Blue Eye National Park. Alternatively, the KMG Tourist Shuttle offers round trips from Saranda to the Blue Eye for 1400 LEK.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Sarandë to the Blue Eye costs approximately 3000-4000 LEK for a round trip, including a 1-2 hour wait. Agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey. Taxis do not typically accept card payments, so bring cash.

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Discover more about The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter), Albanian for 'Blue Eye', is a captivating natural spring located in southern Albania, near the village of Muzinë. This natural phenomenon is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions, drawing visitors with its crystal-clear, vibrant blue water that resembles a human eye. The 'pupil' is a deep, dark blue, while the surrounding 'iris' shimmers in lighter shades of blue-green. The Blue Eye is a karst spring, meaning its water originates from an underground cave. The spring's actual depth remains a mystery, as divers have only been able to descend to 50 meters due to the immense water pressure. The source discharges an impressive 18,400 liters of water per second and is the primary source of the 25-kilometer-long Bistrica River, which flows into the Ionian Sea. The surrounding area is a designated Nature Monument, characterized by lush greenery, including oak and sycamore trees. A trail leads visitors through the protected area to the spring, enhancing the sense of immersion in nature. According to local legend, the Blue Eye was formed when a giant snake (or dragon, in some versions) was killed, and its eye fell to the ground, creating the spring. Symbols of snakes and dragons are common in southern Albanian mythology. Visitors can admire the Blue Eye from a viewing platform, although swimming is generally prohibited to preserve the delicate ecosystem. The water temperature is a chilly 12-13 degrees Celsius, adding to the spring's mystique. The site includes a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine and souvenir shops.

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