Excursion Lekuresi castle and blue-eye spring tour at Saranda

Depart the pier to Lekuresi Hilltop. With its strategic location overlooking the harbour of Sarande and protecting the road to Butrint, this castle was of great Depart the ship to embark on a tour focusing on the natural beauty of Albania with a visit to one of its loveliest beauty spots, the Blue Eye Spring. Leaving the port your journey takes you through stunning mountainous landscapes to the source of the River Bistritsa. The freshwater spring at the head of the river bubbles from a beautiful pool, which is over 1,500 feet deep. Renowned for its deep blue color, it is known as Blue Eye Well. Your guide will tell you about the fascinating local legends associated with this beauty spot.

Afterwards continue to the Monastery of Mesopotami, which dates from the 13th century and reconstructed during the 17th and 18th centuries. You make a brief stop here to view the exterior, which is decorated with bas-reliefs of mythological creatures, and see evidence of the destructive work of the Communist regime between 1967 and 1990.

Next you head to Lekuresi hilltop, where you will enjoy a local refreshment and a folk performance. You will be able to capture some of the most stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Saranda. You may be able to spot the vast field of Vourgu and Butrint Lake in the distance as well as you can take take wonderful pictures of the harbour and the cruise ship in distance. Afterwards, you will travel back to port.

views overlooking the harbour.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Lekuresi Castle, Folk performance, Vrioni, Mesopotami Church, Bas Relief, Blue Eye Spring

Note

Please note: This tour involves extensive amount of walking (approximately 4 km/2.49 miles), occasionally over uneven ground or cobblestones. This programme is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight clothing, adequate sun protection, comfortable walking shoes and bottled water from the ship are recommended. Order of sites visited may vary.