Lekuresi Castle, Mesopotam Monastery and Blue Eye National Park
Moderate Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Mesopotam Monastery
Also known as St. Nicholas Monastery, the building is recognized as a Cultural Monument of Albania and a protected heritage site. Built in the 11th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos and completed 200 years later, the monastery is one of the oldest and largest churches of the Byzantine era.
Blue Eye National Park
Described by Lonely Planet as "a hypnotic pool of deep blue water surrounded by electric-blue edges like the iris of an eye," the "Blue Eye" is a legendary spring where it was believed a 12--headed dragon jealously guarded and held back the spring waters from the villagers. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, the crystal-clear waters reach depths of 50 meters (164 feet).
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
A stop at Lekuresi Castle offers commanding views sought after by photographers. Built in 1537 by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the castle's strategic hilltop location offered protection against the Venetians. Set 300 meters (984 feet) overlooking the town of Sarande, you have panoramic views of Corfu and Ksamil islands.
LUNCH
The personality of a region comes through clearly in its cuisine and the distinctive flavors of Albania are no exception. Enjoy a selection of traditional fare at Foenike restaurant. On the menu are various pies and Albanian starters, veal and vegetables, Albanian dessert, served with water and a glass of red or white wine.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you make your way through a cityscape of bustling streets to Lekuresi Castle, it may be interesting to note that the area was once under siege by Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and Venetians.
Schedule
Special Notes
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring Euros for purchases, hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent. This tour includes moderate walking on different surfaces, including steps. Guests need to negotiate approximately 50 meters uphill from the parking place to the entrance at Lekuresi Hill. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using mobility devices
Exceptional Value
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Moderate Activity
Includes meal
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Mesopotam Monastery
Also known as St. Nicholas Monastery, the building is recognized as a Cultural Monument of Albania and a protected heritage site. Built in the 11th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos and completed 200 years later, the monastery is one of the oldest and largest churches of the Byzantine era.
Blue Eye National Park
Described by Lonely Planet as "a hypnotic pool of deep blue water surrounded by electric-blue edges like the iris of an eye," the "Blue Eye" is a legendary spring where it was believed a 12--headed dragon jealously guarded and held back the spring waters from the villagers. Surrounded by hills and lush greenery, the crystal-clear waters reach depths of 50 meters (164 feet).
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
A stop at Lekuresi Castle offers commanding views sought after by photographers. Built in 1537 by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, the castle's strategic hilltop location offered protection against the Venetians. Set 300 meters (984 feet) overlooking the town of Sarande, you have panoramic views of Corfu and Ksamil islands.
LUNCH
The personality of a region comes through clearly in its cuisine and the distinctive flavors of Albania are no exception. Enjoy a selection of traditional fare at Foenike restaurant. On the menu are various pies and Albanian starters, veal and vegetables, Albanian dessert, served with water and a glass of red or white wine.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you make your way through a cityscape of bustling streets to Lekuresi Castle, it may be interesting to note that the area was once under siege by Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and Venetians.
Schedule
Special Notes
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring Euros for purchases, hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent. This tour includes moderate walking on different surfaces, including steps. Guests need to negotiate approximately 50 meters uphill from the parking place to the entrance at Lekuresi Hill. This tour is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or using mobility devices