Visit Gjirokastra Castle and Lekuresi Castle from Saranda

Visit Gjirokastra Castle and Lekuresi Castle from Saranda

Gjirokastra's eerie hilltop castle is one of the biggest in the Balkans. There's been a fortress here since the 12th century, although much of what can be seen today dates to the early 19th century. The castle remains somewhat infamous due to its use as a prison under the communists. Inside there's a collection of armoury, two good museums, plenty of crumbling ruins to scramble around, and superb views over the valley.The castle grounds also house a recovered US Air Force jet with an interesting backstory as to how it got here. One is the official Albanian version, the other is the official American version. Both versions are what might today be termed as 'Fake News', but the US version is faker than the Albanian one…

Visit: Κάστρο Λεκουρέσι, Sarandë, Albania

This former castle is now a very average restaurant, but come here for the superb views over Saranda and Butrint lagoon, especially at sunset

Duration: 1 hour

Visit: Gjirokaster Castle, Gjirokaster Albania

Gjirokastër Castle is a fortress in Gjirokastër, Albania. Gjirokastër Castle is situated at a height of 336 metres. The castle dominates the town and overlooks the strategically important route along the river valley.

Duration: 2 hours

Visit: The Blue Eye, Vlore 9706 Albania

The Blue Eye (Albanian: Syri i Kaltër) is a water spring and natural phenomenon occurring near Muzinë in Vlorë County, southern Albania

Duration: 1 hour