Plizio Visual Lab

Blue Eye Spring

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

Weather…

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is a memorable karst spring located near Sarandë in southern Albania. The water bubbles up from a depth of more than 50 meters, though the exact depth remains unconfirmed as the powerful pressure has prevented divers from reaching the bottom. The spring gets its name from its circular shape and bustling colors, which resemble a human eye with a deep blue pupil and a lighter blue iris. The water temperature is consistently cold, staying at approximately 12.7 degrees Celsius throughout the year. With a discharge rate of about 18.4 cubic meters per second, it is the primary source of the Bistrica River. The surrounding area is a protected natural monument, featuring lush vegetation including ferns and ancient oak trees. During the communist era, the Blue Eye was a restricted zone reserved for the ruling elite, but it has since become one of Albania's most iconic natural landmarks.

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

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Visiting

The Blue Eye Spring is a freely accessible natural wonder located outdoors. Visitors can view the crystal-clear, deep blue water up close and explore the surrounding park area.

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Typical hours

The spring is typically accessible daily from morning until late afternoon. During summer months, opening hours are usually longer, while in winter access may be limited.

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Photography

Photography is allowed and highly recommended to capture the fascinating blue color of the water. A polarizing filter can help reduce reflections on the water surface.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 to 45 minutes to walk around the spring and enjoy the view. If you want to explore the surrounding hiking trails, plan for at least 1.5 hours.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby town of Saranda or the beaches of the Albanian Riviera. The ruins of Butrint are also just a short drive away.

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Getting there

The spring is located about 20 kilometers east of Saranda and is easily accessible by car or taxi. Follow the signs from the main road; a small parking lot is near the entrance.

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Insider tip

Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best light for photos. Bring water shoes, as the water is ice-cold, but a quick dip is an unforgettable experience.

Geography

Coordinates

39.92000, 20.19000

Facts

The water temperature remains constant at 12.7 °C.
The spring's depth exceeds 50 meters (exact depth unknown).
Water discharge is approximately 18,400 liters per second.
The spring is the primary source of the Bistrica River.
The protected natural area covers 180 hectares.
Officially declared a natural monument in 2002.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

The Blue Eye<1 km · NEExplore →

Mesopotam Monastery8 km · WExplore →

Delvinë9 km · NWExplore →

Hadrianopolis9 km · NExplore →

Dropull Valley9 km · NEExplore →

Vurgu Plain10 km · SWExplore →

Phoenice (Finiq)11 km · WExplore →

Mali i Gjerë12 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Blue Eye Spring (4)

The Blue Eye

Karst spring with deep blue water, up to 50 meters deep, popular tourist spot.

Natural Monument The Blue Eye

Protected karst spring area, home to rare plant and animal species.

🌐 akzm.gov.al🕒 24/7

Kisha e Shën Thanasit

Byzantine church ruins, stone walls remain, located in a forested area.

Gërmadha

Collapsed building remains near the spring, overgrown, purpose unknown.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is swimming allowed in the Blue Eye?

Officially it is prohibited, but some visitors take a quick dip in the 10-degree cold water.

How deep is the Blue Eye?

The exact depth is unknown; divers have reached about 50 meters so far.

Is there an entry fee for Syri i Kaltër?

Yes, a small fee per vehicle and person is charged at the park entrance.

How far is it from Saranda?

It is located about 22 km inland from Saranda and can be reached in 30-40 minutes.

Are there restaurants there?

Yes, there is a restaurant right on the riverbank offering traditional Albanian cuisine.

Blue Eye Spring: where is it located?

Blue Eye Spring is located in Albania.

Blue Eye Spring: what is there to see?

Highlights include The Blue Eye, Natural Monument The Blue Eye, Kisha e Shën Thanasit.

Blue Eye Spring: when is the best time to visit?