Hidden in the forest between Sarandë and Gjirokastër, the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is one of southern Albania's natural wonders — a deep karst spring whose water shifts from dark sapphire in the centre to bright turquoise around the edges.
Ice-cold, crystal-clear water surges up from a depth that divers have never fully reached — well over fifty metres. The spring feeds the Bistricë river and stays cold all year, which doesn't stop the brave from taking a quick plunge on hot summer days.
It makes an easy stop on the way to or from the Riviera. A short walk through shady plane trees leads to the platform above the "eye". Come early in the morning to enjoy the calm before the tour buses arrive.
Good to know: the Blue Eye lies near Muzinë, about 20 km inland from Sarandë. There is a small entrance fee and a café by the trail.