Background

The Blue Eye: Albania's Mesmerizing Spring

Discover the mesmerizing Blue Eye of Albania: a natural spring with vibrant blue waters, lush scenery, and captivating legends.

4.5

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a stunning freshwater spring in southern Albania, known for its vibrant blue waters and lush surroundings. The spring's mesmerizing appearance, resembling a human eye, makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

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.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, parking, and any souvenirs or snacks you may want to purchase.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is a 2.2km walk from the parking area to the Blue Eye.
  • Bring your own snacks and water, as the restaurant on site can be overpriced.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Sarandë, follow the SH99 towards Gjirokastër. The Blue Eye is approximately 22 km east of Sarandë, about a 30-45 minute drive. Look for signs indicating the turnoff to Syri i Kaltër. Parking is available near the entrance to the nature park for a fee. Parking costs vary depending on the duration of your stay: 300 lek for 0-3 hours, 400 lek for 3-4 hours, 600 lek for 5-8 hours, and 1200 lek for 9-24 hours.

  • Public Transport

    From Sarandë, catch a bus heading towards Gjirokastër. Ensure the bus route passes by the Blue Eye, as some take a more direct route. Tickets can be purchased at the main bus station in Sarandë or directly on the bus. A one-way ticket costs approximately 400-450 lek. Inform the driver that you wish to stop at the Blue Eye. From the bus stop on the main road, it's approximately a 2 km walk to the entrance of the park.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Sarandë. Negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey. A round-trip taxi ride, including a 2-hour wait at the Blue Eye, typically costs around 3500-4000 lek. Ensure you have cash for the fare.

  • Walking

    From the parking area or bus stop, the Blue Eye is approximately a 2.2 km walk. Follow the paved path, which gently ascends towards the spring. The walk takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Alternatively, a small train is available for 300 lek per person, or electric scooters can be rented for 5 euros per hour.

Unlock the Best of The Blue Eye

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), Albanian for 'Blue Eye,' is a captivating natural spring located near Muzinë village in southern Albania. Situated between Sarandë and Gjirokastër, it's a popular day trip offering a unique glimpse into Albania's natural beauty. The spring's name comes from its striking resemblance to a human eye. The center, a deep, dark blue, mimics a pupil, while the surrounding lighter blue-green waters create the illusion of an iris. This mesmerizing effect, combined with the surrounding lush greenery, makes it a truly unforgettable sight. The water is incredibly clear, allowing visitors to see depths of over fifty meters. Divers have explored to this depth, but the spring's actual depth remains a mystery due to the strong water pressure. The Blue Eye is not only visually stunning but also a powerful natural force. It is the initial water source of the Bistricë River, with over 18,000 liters of water surging from the spring every second. This constant flow creates a dynamic display of nature's power and contributes to the spring's unique charm. Local legends add to the Blue Eye's mystique. One tells of a giant snake that terrorized the region until an old man cleverly set it ablaze. The snake's eye, falling from the mountain in agony, formed the Blue Eye, forever weeping. Visitors can explore the area surrounding the Blue Eye, with a paved path leading to a viewing platform directly above the spring. Although swimming is prohibited to preserve the delicate ecosystem, the vibrant colors and refreshing atmosphere offer a revitalizing experience.

Popular Experiences near The Blue Eye

Popular Hotels near The Blue Eye

Select Currency