The Blue Eye: Albania's Mesmerizing Spring

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.