The two Blue Eyes: Sarandë spring vs Theth pool
Updated 2026-11-02 · 4 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.
Visiting both Blue Eyes
- For the Sarandë Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), drive 30 minutes from Sarandë towards Gjirokastër and walk around 2 km along the paved path from the car park.
- For the Theth Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër, Kaprre), drive to Theth, then either hike 3 hours or take a 4x4 taxi to Ndërlysaj and hike the final 45-60 minutes uphill.
What is the difference between the two Blue Eyes?
The southern Blue Eye is a high-volume water source bubbling from a deep cave, whereas the northern Blue Eye is a waterfall-fed pool in the mountains.
The Sarandë spring is significantly larger and forms the source of the Bistricë river. It is known for its constant 12-13 degree Celsius temperature and a 'dark pupil' formed by the cave depth. The Theth pool is smaller, much colder, and fed by a waterfall coming from melting snow in the Albanian Alps.
Which Blue Eye is harder to reach?
The Blue Eye in Theth is considerably more difficult to visit due to the remote mountain terrain and required hiking.
To reach the Theth location, visitors must travel to the isolated village of Theth and undertake a moderate hike through the forest. In contrast, the Sarandë location is a major tourist site with a developed entrance and a gently sloping paved walk of around 2 km from the parking area, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
Can you swim in the Blue Eye?
Swimming is prohibited at the Sarandë spring, while visitors do swim in the Theth pool, though its extremely cold water calls for caution.
The water in both locations is extremely cold, with the Sarandë spring commonly reported at around 10-13 degrees Celsius and Theth colder still. In Sarandë, signs usually forbid swimming to protect the water quality, while in Theth, the temperature alone serves as a significant deterrent for most swimmers.
| Feature | Sarandë (South) | Theth (North) |
|---|---|---|
| Water Type | Karst Spring | Waterfall-fed Pool |
| Access | Easy / Paved | Moderate / Hiking |
| Best For | Day trips / Families | Hikers / Adventurers |
| Nearby Town | Sarandë / Gjirokastër | Theth / Shkodër |
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring and early autumn are ideal to avoid the summer crowds at the southern site and snow at the northern site.
The Sarandë spring becomes very crowded in July and August. The Theth pool may be inaccessible during winter months due to heavy snow blocking the mountain passes and hiking trails. Aim for May, June, or September for the best conditions at both locations.
Are there entry fees for the Blue Eye?
Small entry fees are typically collected at the Sarandë site, while the Theth site is generally free, with possible extra costs for parking or transport.
The southern Blue Eye has a formal entrance gate where visitors pay a small fee per person and per vehicle. In Theth, there is no official ticket for the pool itself, but you may need to pay for a 4x4 shuttle from the village or parking at the trailhead in Ndërlysaj.
Sources
Keep reading
- Blue Eye Albania (Syri i Kaltër): How to Visit, Swimming Rules and Theth's Other Blue Eye
- Theth Blue Eye Hike Guide: Trail Map, Distance, and Route
- Visiting Viroi Lake Spring in Gjirokastër: A Travel Guide
- Saranda to Gjirokastër & Blue Eye Day Trip Guide
- Visiting Kakome Bay Near Sarandë: A Secluded Paradise
- Theth to Valbona Hike: Season, Luggage, Water and Logistics