Plizio Visual Lab
The Blue Eye
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Blue Eye, known locally as Syri i Kaltër, is a remarkable karst spring located in the Delvinë District of southern Albania. The crystal-clear blue water bubbles up from a deep pool that reaches a depth of more than 50 meters, though the exact bottom has never been reached due to high water pressure. Feeding the Bistrica River, the spring maintains a constant temperature of approximately 10 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Its name is derived from the striking contrast between the dark blue water in the center and the lighter blue edges, resembling the pupil and iris of a human eye. The site is tucked away within a lush forest of oak and plane trees, providing a unique ecological sanctuary in the region. Designated as a natural monument, the area serves as a critical hydrological site and a major point of interest for geological studies and sustainable tourism in Albania.
- Location: Albania
- Top sights: The Blue Eye · Natural Monument The Blue Eye · Kisha e Shën Thanasit
- Nearby: Delvinë (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 21 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 119 | 104 | 91 | 58 | 50 | 28 | 16 | 24 | 84 | 110 | 140 | 150 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Blue Eye is a freely accessible karst spring located outdoors. Visitors can view the crystal-clear blue water year-round from a wooden platform - no entrance fee is charged.
Typical hours
The spring is typically accessible around the clock, but best visited during daylight hours. In summer, it is usually reachable from early morning until late evening.
Photography
Photography is allowed and very rewarding - the vivid blue color of the water makes a popular subject. Please refrain from flying drones, as the area is protected.
Time needed
Visiting the Blue Eye typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, as the site is compact. For a relaxed stop and photos, budget about one hour.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby town of Saranda (about 20 km) or the UNESCO site of Butrint. The coastal resort Ksamil or Lekursi Hill are also good options.
Getting there
The Blue Eye is about 25 km northeast of Saranda and best reached by car or taxi. There is a small parking area; it can get crowded in peak season.
Insider tip
Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Bring swimwear - officially swimming is not allowed, but there are nearby spots for a dip.
Geography
Facts
- The spring is situated at an elevation of 152 meters above sea level.
- The average water discharge is approximately 18,400 liters per second.
- Divers have so far reached a maximum recorded depth of 50 meters.
- The protected natural area covers a total of 180 hectares.
- The water temperature fluctuates by less than 1 degree Celsius annually.
- It serves as the primary source for the 25-kilometer-long Bistrica River.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town The Blue Eye (3)
Natural Monument The Blue Eye
Karst spring in Albania. Protected natural monument with clear water.
🌐 akzm.gov.al🕒 24/7
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming allowed in the Blue Eye?
Officially it is prohibited due to the cold and for protection, but many jump in briefly.
How cold is the water?
The water has a constant temperature of about 10-12 degrees Celsius year-round.
How do you reach the spring?
From the Saranda-Gjirokastra main road, a turn-off leads to the parking lot, followed by a short walk.
Does it cost an entry fee to visit?
Yes, a small environmental fee per car and person is charged at the entrance.
When is it least crowded?
Come early in the morning before 9:00 AM to avoid the large tour buses.
The Blue Eye: where is it located?
The Blue Eye is located in Albania.
The Blue Eye: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Blue Eye, Natural Monument The Blue Eye, Kisha e Shën Thanasit.
The Blue Eye: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
The Blue Eye: why is it worth visiting?
The Blue Eye, known locally as Syri i Kaltër, is a remarkable karst spring located in the Delvinë District of southern Albania.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Albania →
Nearby cities
Vlorë
City of independence
Saranda
Southern coastal resort
Ksamil
A paradise coastal resort in southern Albania, famous for its four small islands and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Palasë
The first coastal village south of the Llogara Pass, famous for its long white pebble beach and high-end resort developments.
Llogara Pass
A spectacular mountain pass at over 1000 meters altitude, separating the Adriatic and Ionian seas with breathtaking coastal views.
Qeparo
A unique two-part village on the Albanian Riviera featuring a historic hilltop old town and a relaxing coastal area.
Karaburun-Sazan
Part of Albania's only marine national park, consisting of an uninhabited peninsula and a mysterious island with untouched bays.
Delvinë
Delvinë is located in the hilly hinterland of Saranda.
Aliko
Aliko is a village in the Saranda region known for its Greek minority and the fertile plains south of the Butrint lagoon.
Libohovë
Libohovë is located on the slope of Mount Bureto above the Drino Valley.
Nivicë-Bubar
A tranquil village on the Albanian Riviera known for its dramatic landscapes, hidden beaches, and authentic charm away from the crowds.
Manastir
Manastir is a beautiful coastal destination in Albania, offering serene beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere on the I…
Lukovë
Lukovë is one of the most beautiful villages on the Albanian Riviera.
Agios Stefanos
Agios Stefanos is a peaceful coastal settlement on the Ionian Sea.
Xarrë
Xarrë is a significant agricultural village in the extreme south of Albania, known for its massive citrus plantations and peach orchards.
History & landmarks
Butrint
A premier UNESCO World Heritage site near Sarandë, featuring exceptionally preserved ruins from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.
Llogara Pass
Mountain pass to the Riviera
Blue Eye Spring
A powerful karst spring in southern Albania, whose deep blue water resembles a human eye.
Vurgu Plain
Vurgu Plain is a coastal lowland in southern Albania near Sarandë.
Lëkurësi Castle
Built in 1537 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent to control Saranda's port and the sea routes towards the island of Corfu.
Nature
More places
Butrint
Butrint is an ancient ruined city and a national park in southern Albania near Saranda.
Hadrianopolis
Ancient city in the Drino valley known for its well-preserved Roman theater.
Dropull Valley
Dropull Valley is a long tectonic valley in southern Albania through which the Drino river flows.
Mesopotam Monastery
The 13th-century Saint Nicholas church is unique for its double apses and stone reliefs depicting mythical animals.
Phoenice (Finiq)
Capital of the Chaonians and one of the wealthiest cities in Epirus.
Mali i Gjerë
Mali i Gjerë, meaning the Broad Mountain, towers over the historic city of Gjirokastra.
Gjirokastra Castle
Dominant fortress
Antigonea
Founded by Pyrrhus of Epirus in honor of his wife.