Excursion Blue-eye spring tour at Saranda

Lekuresi Castle

Depart the pier for the approximately 15-minute transfer to Lekuresi Castle. With its strategic location overlooking the harbour of Sarande and protecting the road to Butrint, this castle was of great importance to Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. While much of it has been damaged by weather and war, it has been revived for tourists to enjoy its unmatched views overlooking the harbour - which, if conditions permit, may provide views of your Silversea ship.

Folk Performance

Inside Lekuresi Castle, a restaurant has been retro-fitted into the original structure. Here, guests will have the opportunity to enjoy refreshments and a local Albanian folk performance. At the conclusion of the performance, guests will re-board the coaches for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive through the Albanian countryside en-route to the Mesopotami Church.

Mesopotami Church

Dating back to the 13^th century CE and rebuilt in the 17^th, this church has long been renowned for its bas-relief depictions of mythical creatures. A quick stop is made here as guides lead the group around the exterior of the monastery, taking in all the sculptures and the theories behind them.

Blue Eye Spring

Re-board the coaches for a drive through mountainous landscapes to the Blue Eye Spring. After 10 minutes of train ride, the spring appears as a shallow stream tucked into the lush Albanian forest. Upon closer inspection, guests will see that the river is fed by a subterranean spring that bubbles up perfectly-clear water from over 50 metres (164  feet) below. This pure, untouched water creates the illusion of being shallow due to its unique clarity and high visibility. It is said that these waters were so cherished that during Communist times, only ruling party members were able to bathe in the spring.

After approximately 30 minutes at the spring, re-board the coaches for the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

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

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking (approximately 3 km/2 miles), over uneven ground in the Blue-Eye Spring or cobblestones. This programme is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Please note there is an approx. 20 minute walk to reach the waterfall on a graveled footpath or alternatively there a train is available and the train is included. Lightweight clothing, adequate sun protection, comfortable walking shoes and bottled water from the ship are recommended. Order of sites visited may vary. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found in other ports of call.