Blue Eye of Theth

Pool in Theth

Blue Eye Kaprre
Blue Eye Kaprre
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Qeriqiardit94

The Blue Eye of Theth (Syri i Kaltër i Thethit) is one of those places that feels almost too vivid to be real: a cold, crystal-clear spring pooled beneath a small waterfall, glowing in shades of turquoise and deep blue. Tucked into the folds of the Albanian Alps, it's the kind of natural stop that makes you slow down, sit on a rock for a while, and listen to the water moving through the valley.

What makes it especially satisfying is that you earn it. The spring is reached on foot from the Nderlysaj side of Theth National Park, following a trail through river valleys and rocky paths, and it's widely considered one of the best places to visit in Theth for hikers who want a high-reward half-day outing. It also fits neatly into a walking tour of Theth if you're building your days around scenic routes rather than road-hopping between viewpoints.

History and Significance of the Blue Eye of Theth

The Blue Eye's “history” is less about human construction and more about geology and landscape. In the karst terrain of the Albanian Alps, water travels through limestone systems, re-emerging as springs that can be startlingly clear, intensely cold, and richly coloured depending on depth, minerals, and light.

Locally, places like this become landmarks in their own right: a meeting point on hot days, a photo stop on classic hiking routes, and a natural reset button after a dusty walk. In Theth, the Blue Eye has become one of the signature nature experiences that helps define the valley as an outdoor destination, alongside waterfalls, canyons, and long-distance trails.

Things to See and Do in the Blue Eye of Theth

The main event is the pool itself, where the colour shifts as you move around it, from bright turquoise at the edges to darker blues near the deeper centre. Take a few minutes to view it from different angles before you commit to photos, because the best perspective often depends on the sun and the shadow line from the surrounding cliffs and trees.

If you’re comfortable on uneven ground, explore the immediate area around the spring for small cascades, smooth rock shelves, and natural “sitting spots” that make perfect picnic breaks. Many visitors bring snacks and linger, especially if they arrive early before the trail feels busy.

Swimming is possible, but think of it as a quick plunge rather than a long soak. The water is extremely cold even in summer, so a brief dip or just wading at the edge is often the most enjoyable way to experience it without turning the visit into a test of endurance.

How to Get to the Blue Eye of Theth

The Blue Eye of Theth is reached by hiking, most commonly starting from Nderlysaj (often marked around the Blue Eye parking area) and following the valley trail to the spring. The walk is generally treated as a moderate hike on rocky terrain, and many people plan it as a half-day outing from Theth.

For flights, most travellers use Tirana International Airport (TIA), while Podgorica (TGD) in Montenegro can be geographically closer if you're already travelling in that direction and are happy with a border crossing. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Theth on Booking.com.

There is no practical train route to Theth or Nderlysaj, so public transport is usually a combination of road transfers, minibuses, and local taxis in season.

By bus, the usual approach is to get to Shkodër first and then continue by seasonal minibus/furgon or arranged transfer toward Theth and the Nderlysaj trailhead, depending on where you're staying.

Driving gives you the most flexibility for timing and trailhead access, especially if you want to start early and avoid the busiest part of the day. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Blue Eye of Theth

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours
  • Best time to visit: Start early in the morning for cooler hiking conditions and a calmer, more photogenic atmosphere at the pool.
  • How long to spend: Plan 3-5 hours total including the hike, plus extra time if you want a longer break at the spring.
  • Accessibility: The route involves uneven, rocky paths and some slippery sections near water, so it’s not ideal for limited mobility.
  • Facilities: Bring water and snacks; facilities are limited on the trail, and any cafés or shops are typically back in Theth/Nderlysaj.

Where to Stay Close to the Blue Eye of Theth

For a culture-heavy itinerary, base yourself in central Theth near the church and traditional guesthouses so you can walk to village sights in the evenings; if your trip prioritises transport links and an easier arrival/departure, staying in Shkodër before and after Theth is usually the smoothest plan.

In Theth itself, Bujtina Polia is a strong option if you want to be close to the village core and keep mornings simple for early starts. If you prefer a more hotel-style base with comfortable facilities after long hikes, Hotel Jezerca Theth is well suited to travellers who want a little more structure at the end of the day. For a quieter guesthouse feel that still works well for hiking plans, Guesthouse Prrockaj Theth is another practical choice for a nights-in-the-mountains stay.

Is the Blue Eye of Theth Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy places where the journey is part of the experience. The Blue Eye of Theth delivers a rare combination of dramatic alpine scenery, genuinely striking water colour, and a hike that feels adventurous without being extreme.

It's also a high-value stop in Theth because it pairs well with other nearby walks, and the spring itself is distinctive enough that it doesn't feel like “just another pretty river spot” once you arrive.

For Different Travelers

Families with Kids

For families, the key is pacing and expectations. The hike can be very doable with older kids who like walking and scrambling, but it’s best approached as an outdoor adventure rather than a “quick attraction,” with plenty of water, snacks, and regular breaks.

At the spring, keep a close eye near slippery rocks and fast-moving water, and consider sticking to safe viewing spots rather than trying to get right to the edge. If you time it early, the calmer atmosphere also makes it easier to manage the walk and the stop at the pool.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

This is a great shared outing if you like quiet nature moments that feel earned. Start early, take your time on the trail, and plan a simple picnic so you can linger without rushing back the moment you arrive.

If you want a more romantic feel, avoid peak midday when the trail can feel busiest and focus instead on the softer light and calmer vibe in the morning or later afternoon, when the valley feels more secluded.

Budget Travelers

The Blue Eye of Theth is an excellent budget-friendly highlight because the main costs are simply getting yourself to Theth and the trailhead. Pack your own food, carry a refillable bottle, and you can turn it into a full half-day experience with minimal spending.

If you're watching costs, consider basing in Theth and hiking rather than relying on multiple paid transfers, and group your hikes so you're not paying repeatedly to reposition to different trailheads.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (45)

View of the canyon, reached via a small wooden bridge near Grunas, offers a rewarding panorama over the Theth River gorge; visitors say the walk to the lookout can be a little dicey and there are no barriers, but the view is worth it, and from the bridge you can continue a steep 150m climb to Grunas waterfall (about 30 minutes) or follow the river toward Nderlysay and the Blue Eye, taking care to stay on the left-side trail to avoid ending up on the hot tarmac road.

Alex
2 months ago
"Nice little bridge where you can dropped off by a taxi. Feel free to continue on the path up to the Grunas waterfall. It's pretty steep (150melevation gain) but rewarding. We did it in 30 min from the birdge. Then you can continue on to go back by walk to Theth, it will take around 1hr from the waterfall, it's only down and flat from there...."
ציון אור
7 months ago
"The canyon looks great, if you stay in theth don't miss this place"
Jade Campbell
7 months ago
"Bit dicey walking to the 'look out' but worth it for the view!"

FAQs for Visiting Blue Eye of Theth

Getting There

It sits southwest of Theth village in the valley system reached via Nderlysaj, and it’s accessed on foot rather than by a direct road. Most visitors treat it as a hike from Nderlysaj or as a longer out-and-back from Theth village.
The simplest approach is to follow the route toward Nderlysaj and then continue on the marked valley trail toward the spring. If you’re unsure at junctions, use an offline map and follow the steady flow of hikers heading the same direction in season.
You can reach Nderlysaj by road from Theth and then start the hike from the parking area. In summer, local taxis and shuttles are common, which can save your legs for the scenic part of the walk.
Parking is usually available around the Nderlysaj area, but it can fill up at peak times. Driving is worth it if you want an early start and a shorter overall walking day, especially in hot weather.

Tickets & Entry

The spring and viewpoint are generally treated as a natural site rather than a ticketed attraction. What you may pay for is parking, a local shuttle, or a taxi transfer depending on how you approach the trail.
You don’t need reservations to visit the spring itself. The only time you might want to pre-arrange something is transport, especially if you’re relying on a taxi at a specific hour.
The biggest “rule” is common sense around fragile nature spots: don’t leave litter, don’t use soaps or shampoos in the water, and be cautious on slick rocks. Treat the area as a swimming spot only if conditions are safe and you’re confident on uneven ground.

Visiting Experience

If you’re tight on time, aim for the Nderlysaj trailhead approach and keep your stop at the spring focused: photos, a short rest, and a careful look from the best viewpoint. You’ll still get the core experience without turning it into a full-day trek.
Yes, if you want one signature hike that delivers a clear payoff. It’s a strong “one big outing” choice because the spring is distinctive and the trail gives you a real feel for the landscape.
A great pairing is to combine the Blue Eye hike with a shorter stop like Grunas Waterfall or a canyon viewpoint later the same day. That way you get both the iconic spring and a contrasting landscape feature without adding huge extra distance.
It depends on conditions underfoot. Light rain can be fine, but after heavy rain the trail can be slippery and river crossings can feel less comfortable, so it’s often better to choose a safer village walk on those days.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s one of the most commonly recommended hikes in the area, especially for travellers staying multiple nights. It often appears as the “half-day nature highlight” alongside waterfalls and canyon walks.
Most confident hikers can do it independently with a map, but a guide can add value if you want local context or if you’re unsure about trail junctions. If you’re travelling in shoulder season, a guide can also help with logistics when fewer people are on the path.
The Blue Eye itself is usually not a quick loop because it’s a hike-in, hike-out destination. If you only have 1-2 hours, choose a village-level walk in Theth and save the Blue Eye for a day when you can commit to the full outing.

Photography

Yes, especially for water colour, textured rocks, and the contrast between bright turquoise and dark alpine shadows. A wide-angle lens (or phone wide setting) helps capture both the pool and the surrounding landscape.
Earlier in the day tends to be calmer and cleaner for compositions, with fewer people around the viewpoint. If you want the most vivid colour, look for moments when sunlight hits the pool directly rather than when it’s fully shaded.
There are typically no formal restrictions outdoors, but be considerate around other visitors in tight viewing areas. If you’re using a drone, check local protected-area rules and be mindful of wildlife and noise.
The most “classic” shot is usually from slightly above the pool, where you can capture the colour gradient and the waterfall feeding it. Take a minute to find a stable footing and compose carefully, because the best angles are often on uneven rock.

Accessibility & Facilities

The route is not step-free and includes rocky surfaces and slopes, so it’s challenging for limited mobility. If mobility is a concern, consider scenic viewpoints closer to Theth village that require less demanding walking.
Facilities at the spring itself are minimal or not guaranteed, so plan as if there are none. Use restrooms and stock up on supplies in Theth or near the trailhead before you start.
Yes, there are plenty of natural sitting spots on rocks and flatter areas near the water. Just choose a stable spot away from slippery edges and avoid blocking narrow trail sections.
No, the terrain is not stroller-friendly. A child carrier is far more practical if you’re visiting with very young kids.

Food & Breaks Nearby

The easiest option is to eat back in Theth village, where guesthouses and small restaurants are more likely to serve meals. It’s also the most comfortable place to refuel after a cold-water stop.
Many travellers plan a hearty mountain meal at their guesthouse after hiking, which is part of Theth’s charm. If you’re staying locally, asking your host what’s available that evening can lead to the best simple, seasonal food.

Safety & Timing

It’s peaceful, but evening hiking isn’t ideal because the trail can be uneven and harder to navigate in low light. Aim to be back before dusk so you’re not relying on phone flashlights on rocky ground.
Early morning is usually best for cooler temperatures and a quieter viewpoint. Later in the day can still be lovely, but you’ll want to watch your turnaround time so you’re not hiking back late.

Nearby Attractions to the Blue Eye of Theth

  • Grunas Waterfall: A scenic cascade on an easier trail that's ideal to pair with the Blue Eye on a two-hike day.
  • Grunas Canyon: A dramatic limestone canyon with striking rock walls and viewpoints that show off Theth's rugged geology.
  • Theth Church: A photogenic village landmark that anchors the classic “postcard view” of Theth valley.
  • Lock-in Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit): A powerful cultural site linked to local history and traditions, offering context beyond landscapes.
  • Valbona Pass trail: The start of the famous Theth-Valbona hike, with big mountain scenery and a true alpine feel even on shorter sections.

The Blue Eye of Theth appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Theth!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours

Price:

Free.

Address: Blue Eye Kaprre, Kaprre e Gimajve, Albania
Theth: 5 km

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