From Ruins to Springs: Exploring Butrint and the Blue Eye

About this tour

Your adventure begins in the bustling city of Tirana. You’ll depart early in the morning, traveling through the Albanian countryside, witnessing the transition from urban landscapes to the more serene, rural beauty of Albania. The drive itself is an experience, offering scenic views of Albania’s diverse geography.
Visit to Butrint:
You’ll first stop at Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its layers of history from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods.
Exploring Butrint Archaeological Park: As you enter Butrint, you’ll be greeted by the Venetian tower from the 15th century, setting the stage for a journey through time. You’ll walk through ancient pathways, first encountering the remains of Hellenistic structures, then moving to Roman ruins like the amphitheater from the 3rd century and the well-preserved Roman baths.
The Great Basilica and Baptistery: You’ll marvel at the Great Basilica, noting its impressive architecture, and if timing allows, you might see the mosaic floor of the Baptistery, often covered for preservation.
The tour continues with a visit to the small museum within the Venetian Castle, providing a chronological overview of Butrint’s history. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands, part of the Butrint National Park, known for its biodiversity.

From Butrint, you’ll head towards the Blue Eye, or “Syri i Kaltër.” The drive is scenic, with the landscape gradually changing to forested areas.
Arrival at the Blue Eye: Upon arrival, you’ll be immersed in nature. The Blue Eye is a natural spring, famous for its mesmerizing bright blue water, which looks like an eye due to its circular shape. The water is incredibly clear and cold, sourced from deep underground.
Here, you can choose to swim in the icy, crystal-clear waters, or simply observe this natural phenomenon. The depth of the spring remains a mystery, with estimates suggesting it’s over 50 meters deep.
Cultural and Culinary Experience:
After your natural and historical explorations, indulge in local cuisine. Saranda, near the Blue Eye, offers seafood dishes, traditional Albanian fare like byrek (savory pastry), and the chance to taste raki, a local spirit.
Cultural Insights: Throughout your journey, your guide might share insights into Albanian culture, history, and the significance of these sites, enriching your experience with stories of the past.

Return to Tirana:

Evening Drive: As the day winds down, you’ll drive back to Tirana, possibly stopping for a final taste of Albanian hospitality or to enjoy the sunset over the Albanian landscape.

This adventure combines the thrill of discovery with cultural immersion and natural beauty, providing a comprehensive experience of Albania’s rich tapestry of history and nature.