Is Blue Eye Worth Visiting? (1970)
A karst spring pushing icy, impossibly blue water up from a depth nobody has definitively measured, in an oak forest between Sarandë and Gjirokastër.
About Blue Eye
Visit the Blue Eye's crystal depths. Enjoy forest hikes, turquoise waters, and Riverside dining. Plan your 2026 adventure to Albania's most magical natural pool
Yes, but go at opening — by 11am the Blue Eye is a queue with a spring at the end.
1–1.5 hours
~200–300 lek plus parking
Right at opening, or late afternoon
Is Blue Eye worth your time?
Why Blue Eye is worth it
A karst spring pushing icy, impossibly blue water up from a depth nobody has definitively measured, in an oak forest between Sarandë and Gjirokastër.
Who will love Blue Eye
Anyone driving the southern route — it is barely a detour.
Who might skip it
Peak-season midday visitors; coach traffic makes the short walk in feel like a theme park.
Tips to make it worth it
Swimming is officially discouraged and the water is around 10°C. Come for the colour, not a dip.
Map & nearby
FAQ — Blue Eye
- Can you swim in the Blue Eye in Albania?
- Swimming in the spring itself is officially prohibited to protect the site, and the water stays around 10°C year-round. Some visitors swim downstream where it is permitted.
- How deep is the Blue Eye of Albania?
- Divers have reached more than 50 metres without finding the bottom, and the true depth of the spring vent is still unknown.
- Is Blue Eye worth visiting?
- Yes — Blue Eye is one of Albania's rewarding stops, especially for travellers who value authentic settings, photogenic scenery and value for money compared to Western Europe.
- Who is Blue Eye best for?
- Blue Eye suits curious independent travellers, couples, photographers and small groups who enjoy a mix of nature, culture and slower-paced discovery over resort-style tourism.