DESTINATIONS
You may have heard about Albania’s Blue Eye of Theth before. This place has become one of the top spots in the Albanian Alps.
If you’re traveling through the north of Albania, you need to see it. The moment you step on the trail that leads to this spring, you’ll feel the air change. It’s cooler, fresh, and the sound of water becomes louder as you walk closer.
The Blue Eye of Theth is not easy to reach, and maybe that’s why it feels so special. To see it, you need to walk.
But don’t let that scare you. The walk is part of the adventure. It helps you slow down. It helps you look around.
The views are open, the paths are simple, and the forest gives you shade. By the time you get to the spring, you’ll feel like you’ve worked for something — and it will be worth it.
The water is ice-cold. The color is unreal. It’s a deep mix of blue and green that looks like it doesn’t belong in nature. But it’s all real.
The water comes from underground and flows out with strong pressure. It’s like a hole that never stops moving. You can sit by the edge, dip your feet in, or even jump in if you’re brave.
How to Get There — Step-by-Step Travel Tips
To get to the Blue Eye of Theth, you first need to get to Theth National Park. This is one of the most beautiful areas in the north of Albania.
You can reach Theth by car from Shkoder, which takes around 3 to 4 hours. The road is better now, but it still feels like you’re going into a wild part of the country.
Once you’re in Theth Village, you’ll find places to stay — guesthouses, eco-lodges, and even camping spots.
From the center of the village, the hike to the Blue Eye takes about 2 to 3 hours each way, depending on your pace. Some people rent 4×4 vehicles to cut the distance, but walking is the best way to enjoy it.
Make sure to wear good shoes. Bring water. And take it easy. The path goes through forests, crosses small streams, and offers views of the mountains.
Along the way, you’ll see cows, goats, and maybe a few other hikers. It’s peaceful. It’s quiet. You’ll feel far from the busy world.
What Makes the Blue Eye of Theth So Special?
There are many natural springs around the world. But few are like this. The Blue Eye of Theth feels like it was made for stories. Locals say it has no bottom. That it connects to secret rivers underground.
Some say it glows under the moonlight. These stories make it more than just a spring — they make it magical.
When you sit by the water, you’ll notice how fast it flows. It’s not just a still pool. It’s always moving. Always alive. This is not the place for swimming, though.
The water is very cold, even in summer. But you can still get close, touch it, and feel the energy it gives off.
The color is what most people talk about. It’s the kind of blue you usually only see in pictures. Some people try to take photos, but they say the camera never gets it right.
You have to see it with your own eyes. And when you do, you’ll understand why people call it one of the best places in the Balkans.
What to Pack and When to Go
You’ll need to be ready. Even if the hike is not too hard, you’ll be in nature. Wear strong shoes. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen. Don’t forget a light jacket. The weather can change quickly in the Albanian Alps.
The best time to visit is between May and October. In spring, everything is green and fresh. In summer, the days are longer and warmer.
In early autumn, the trees change color, and the crowds are smaller. Winter is not the time to go unless you are with a local guide and have the right gear.
There are no shops or restaurants near the spring. So bring what you need. You might see a few people selling snacks at the start of the trail, but not near the spring itself. If you stay in Theth, many guesthouses will pack lunch for you.
And don’t forget your camera, but also take time to put it away. Sit still. Watch the water. Listen to the sound of the spring. You’ll remember that more than any photo.
The Story Behind the Name — Is There a Legend?
Yes, there is a story. In Albanian, the spring is called “Syri i Kaltër,” which means “Blue Eye.” Locals gave it this name because of the way the water looks — like a blue human eye, deep and shining.
Some stories say the spring was made by a giant who cried after losing his love. Others say it was a gift from nature, a place to keep cool water hidden in the hot days of summer.
Whether the stories are true or not doesn’t really matter. What matters is how the place makes you feel.
The name fits. It feels like nature is watching you through that eye. Calmly. Quietly. As if to say, “Take care of this place.”
What Else Can You Do in Theth?
The Blue Eye of Theth is just one part of the adventure. The area around Theth is full of things to do. You can hike to the Grunas Waterfall, visit the Theth Church, or walk the Valbona Pass trail.
If you’re staying for more than one night, plan a few small hikes. Each one gives you a new view of the Albanian Alps. The paths are simple, but they lead to big places. Waterfalls. Cliffs. Meadows. And quiet villages.
Don’t rush. Stay at a local guesthouse. Eat homemade bread, cheese, and soup. Talk to the people. You’ll find that life here is slow — and that’s what makes it beautiful.
Many travelers say this part of Albania feels like a secret. That it’s not like other places in Europe. And that’s the truth. It’s not big. It’s not crowded. But it’s full of real moments.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip
Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your visit to the Blue Eye of Theth:
Start your hike early. The morning is cooler and quieter.
Don’t try to do everything in one day. Stay overnight in Theth.
Bring cash. Many places don’t take cards.
Always ask locals for advice. They know the trails and the weather.
Respect the nature. Take your trash with you. Don’t damage the trails.
If you’re lucky, you might see eagles, foxes, or even wild goats along the trail. But the best part is the feeling. A deep, slow peace that stays with you long after you leave.
Why You’ll Never Forget the Blue Eye of Theth
Some places you visit just to check a box. But this one is different. The Blue Eye of Theth is not just a tourist stop. It’s a feeling. A memory. A secret you find at the end of a long walk.
When you go back home, you’ll think about that blue water. That clear sound of the spring. That moment you dipped your hand in and felt the cold.
You’ll tell your friends, but they won’t really understand. Not until they see it too.
So if you’re planning a trip to Albania, add this place to your list. Make time for it. Walk the path. Touch the water. And take a little piece of wild Albania with you.
Latest Stories
