Skip to content If you’re looking to level up your Instagram feed and treat yourself to an epic sunset, Lekuresi Castle in Saranda is calling your name! Sitting high up on Lekursi Hill (just 20 km from Ksamil Village), this spot serves up amazing views of Saranda, Ksamil and even all the way to Corfu. Oh, and the castle itself? Super cool. It’s a square fortress with two round towers that make it look like something out of a storybook! The drive up there is half the fun, with gorgeous scenery at every turn. Once you’re inside, the castle isn’t just about the history (though that’s pretty fascinating too).
There’s a restaurant (more about that later on) with a massive outdoor terrace, absolutely ideal for a sunset dinner with a side of panoramic views. In the summer, this spot is buzzing with life: locals, tourists, amazing food, and chilled drinks. And yes, your Instagram and TikTok followers are gonna love this one! We’ve got you covered with all the essentials about the Lekursi Castle; what to see, opening hours, how to get there, the restaurant (menu) and the best time to visit. Plus, we’ll share tips to make your trip even better, like adding nearby gems such as Ksamil (often called the “Maldives of Europe”) or exploring other must-see spots like Gjirokastër and Berat. Let’s dive in!
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If you’re planning to spend a few hours soaking up the beauty of Lecursi Castle, we suggest setting up your base in either Sarande (just 2 km away) or Ksamil (a bit farther at 15 km). Both towns are packed with great places to stay, whether you’re into charming guesthouses, cozy apartments or stylish hotels with all the modern perks. To make things easier for you, we’ve rounded up our top 5 favorite spots to stay in Sarande:
The best properties in Sarande
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Want to know the best 5 places to stay in Sarande? Look no further we’ve got you covered:
Curious about the best all inclusive resorts in Albania or maybe looking for the most charming all inclusive hotels? Check out these pages for helpful tips on finding great deals!
What’s so special about Lekuresi Castle? First off, the views are absolutely stunning! Perched on Lekursi Hill just behind Saranda, this spot offers the best panoramic views in town. From up here, you can take in the sparkling bay, the town of Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and even Corfu in the distance. On the other side, you’ll see rolling valleys, rugged mountains and Butrint Lake. It’s absolutely no wonder this is one of the most iconic viewpoints in the area! Inside the castle walls, there’s the famous Restorant Kalaja e Lekuresit with a huge outdoor terrace that’s perfect for dinner or drinks, especially around sunset. If you’re lucky, you might catch some traditional Albanian folk music and dancing for an extra dose of culture. The atmosphere is lively in summer, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to snag a table or a parking spot.
Not in the mood for a sit-down meal? No worries. You can still visit the castle for free and explore the historic site. The fortress, built in a square shape with two round towers, dates back to 1537 and has plenty of charm, with thick limestone walls and remnants of its original turrets. Around the castle, you’ll find the ruins of the old Lëkurës village and some interesting pieces of history, like 20th-century artillery and Cold War-era bunkers scattered across the hill. If you’ve got time, we also advise you to make a stop at Natyra Restaurant on your way up or down. It’s got a stunning terrace with what many say are the best sunset views around. You don’t have to eat there, but if you do, their pizzas are highly recommended! Plus, there’s a cozy area with bean bags for drinks if you want to relax and soak up the view.
The Lekuresi Castle Restaurant (Kalaja e Lëkurësit) is the kind of place you’ve got to experience at least once. Located high on Lekursi Hill, it’s a beautiful spot to watch a stunning sunset while enjoying dinner with specialties crafted by their chefs. The atmosphere is romantic, making it ideal for a special evening, though the prices are a bit on the high side. Honestly, it might feel a little overpriced, but it’s still worth it for the unique vibe and unforgettable views especially at sunset!
When we visited, we decided to grab drinks and pizza at the lower section of the Lekuresi Castle Restaurant, which has a more casual vibe. There’s also a fancier spot at the top, but we stuck to the relaxed area, and it was great. But what about the restaurant’s menu? The menu has something for everyone, whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of hearty grilled meats or just looking for a light snack to pair with the stunning sunset. Checkout the full menu here. Here’s what you can expect:
Start your meal with some flavorful appetizers. If seafood is your thing, go for the sea bass carpaccio, octopus salad, or prawns crudo, all fresh and full of flavor! If you’re more into land-based options, the lekursi antipasta or the cheese mix platter are great choices to share with friends over a drink.
For pasta lovers, you’re in for a treat. The lekursi pasta, seafood linguine, or the rich and indulgent tartufo pasta are sure to hit the spot. Risotto fans can’t go wrong with the lekursi risotto or the seafood risotto, both packed with delicious flavors and perfect as a main course!
The real stars of the menu are the grilled and baked specialties. If you love seafood, try the grilled sea bass, gilthead, or prawns, all perfectly cooked. Meat lovers will enjoy options like the juicy t-bone steak, tomahawk steak, or the traditional baked lamb thigh or shoulder! These dishes are hearty and go perfectly with the castle’s panoramic views.
For something light and refreshing, you’ll find plenty of salad options. The lekursi salad offers a local twist with pomegranate and a tangy dressing, while the caesar salad, arugula salad, or greek salad are perfect for a simple, fresh bite.
If you’re looking for a quick snack or a side dish to share, there are plenty of tasty options. From oven-baked peppers with cheese and grilled eggplant and zucchini to tzatziki and french fries, there’s something for every craving!
The history of Lekuresi Castle is as fascinating as its views, but why? Built in 1537 by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent during his campaign against Corfu, the castle was strategically designed to oversee the harbor of Saranda and the Saranda-Butrint road. Back then, it played a crucial role in controlling the area and housed a garrison of around 200 soldiers. The castle, perched on the hill southeast of Saranda, also sheltered the old village of Lëkurës. Over the years, it saw its share of battles, including an attack by Ali Pasha of Tepelena in the 18th century, which eventually led to its abandonment in 1878.
Architecturally, the castle has a square layout with two round towers on opposite corners and a square tower along the western wall. While much of it is in ruins today, some sections still stand tall, with one wall reaching up to 7 meters. The limestone walls, fortified with mortar, were thick and durable, making it a stronghold in its prime. The first floors of the towers were used for storage, while the second floors had small windows for guards to keep watch. You can still spot the remains of the old village on the western slope of the hill, and within the castle’s eastern wall, there are traces of a later-added church. Though the structure has been partially restored and repurposed for tourism, its historic charm remains intact.
Just 15 km south of Lekuresi Castle, Ksamil is pure magic, often called the “Maldives of Europe.” And honestly? It totally earns the nickname! Imagine crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and beach clubs that are perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. Spend your day swimming in those dreamy waters, sipping cocktails by the shore and wrapping it up with an unforgettable seafood dinner at the famous Mussel House.
But there’s more to Ksamil than its beautiful beaches; you can visit the enchanting Blue Eye spring, a natural wonder you won’t want to miss, or hop on a quick boat ride to Corfu for a little island-hopping adventure. Whether you’re looking for chill vibes, a bit of adventure, or just really good food, Ksamil has it all. Ready to explore? Dive into our full guide to Ksamil for all the details!
Head just 2 km north of Lekuresi Castle, and you’ll land in Sarande, a vibrant coastal town that mixes sunny beaches with a touch of history. Take a walk along Rruga Jonianet, the lively seaside promenade and soak in the buzzing atmosphere with its mix of bars, seafood spots, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re up for a relaxed afternoon or a lively night out, Sarande has something for you, especially when the cruise ships dock and add to the buzz! Feeling laid-back? Grab a gelato and relax under the shade of a palm tree.
Or wander through the cute little shops on the promenade where you can pick up local goodies like fresh honey, olive oil, and handcrafted jewelry. Got an appetite? Don’t miss Haxhi, a cozy restaurant just off the main street with a friendly vibe, chic décor, and food so good, you’ll probably go back for seconds! If sipping drinks with a view is more your style, there are plenty of beachfront cafés and bars to choose from, though those killer sea views might come with a slightly higher tab. Want to get the full scoop on Sarande? Check out our blog about Sarandë for all the best tips and must-see spots!
Just 21 kilometers from Sarande, you’ll find the breathtaking Blue Eye, known locally as “Syri i Kaltër.” It’s one of those natural wonders you simply can’t miss when visiting Albania. True to its name, the spring looks just like a bright blue human eye, with deep blues at its center fading into stunning greens and turquoise… it’s the kind of sight that stops you in your tracks!
Here’s a fun fact: this spring gushes out an incredible 18,400 liters of water every second and stays a refreshing 10°C all year round. It’s also the source of the Bistricë River and is thought to be over 50 meters deep, though no one knows for sure. The mystery just adds to its charm. Out of all the springs in the world, the Blue Eye is truly one of a kind. Want to know more? Dive into our full guide to the Blue Eye in Albania!
Still in the mood to explore after Lecursi Castle? Albania’s coastline is packed with gems waiting to be discovered. Himarë, Dhërmi, Palasë, and lively Vlorë are all worth a spot on your itinerary! Himarë is perfect for laid-back beach vibes, with sandy shores, clear waters, and hidden gems like Gjipe Beach. A bit further up, Dhërmi offers a mix of relaxation and energy, with its whitewashed houses, buzzing beach bars, and the famous Kala Festival, which music lovers flock to every summer.
Looking for something a little more dramatic? Palasë should be your go-to. Picture mountains cascading into the sea and Albania’s only Blue Flag beach + the famous Green Coast Resort! And then there’s Vlorë, a vibrant city with a lively promenade, fascinating history, and natural wonders like the Karaburun Peninsula.
Getting to Lekursi Castle is pretty straightforward: the castle sits atop Lekursi Hill and is accessible via a small road that winds around the back of the hill. The drive itself is stunning, with beautiful views at every turn, so take your time and enjoy the scenery and shoot some awesome photos! The road is fully paved and in great condition, so driving is easy, and there’s plenty of parking available once you get there. If you’re starting from the center of Saranda, it’s only about 3 to 4 kilometers to the top.
Can you walk to Lekuresi Castle? Yes! If you’re in for a walk, you can hike up the hill, it’ll take you around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Good to know: A lot of guided tours include a stop at Lekursi Castle (like the ones we mentioned earlier), making it a super convenient choice if you’re already exploring the area. If you prefer a bit more freedom, renting a car is a great idea, why? You can visit the castle at your own pace and explore some of the other amazing spots around Saranda. And don’t forget, cabs in Saranda are pretty affordable too, so that’s always an easy and stress free option!
For a hassle-free experience, we recommend renting your car through Sunny Cars. They include free cancellation and full insurance, so you can hit the road with peace of mind. Book your car here and get ready for your Albanian adventure!
The best time to visit Lekursi Castle is late afternoon, just before sunset. This is when the views are at their absolute best, with the golden light of the setting sun painting Saranda, the Ionian Sea, and even Corfu in the distance. It’s a photographer’s dream and the perfect moment for a romantic and magical experience! If you’re visiting during summer, keep in mind that it can get really hot, with temperatures often reaching above 35°C. Arriving a little earlier will not only help you beat the heat but also give you a better chance at finding a parking spot before the crowds roll in.
Spring and autumn are great if you want a quieter experience; the weather is cooler and it’s ideal if you feel like hiking up the hill for a bit of adventure. If you can, plan your visit between April and October. May, June, and September are especially good, they’ve got the sunny, warm weather without the crowds that peak summer brings. If you do visit during the busy season, try going early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You’ll get cooler temperatures and a much more peaceful atmosphere. Whenever you decide to go, one thing is for sure: the views are absolutely worth it!
Heading to Lekuresi Castle? Check out the map below for everything you need to make your trip easy and fun. It’s got all the must-see spots and the best places to stay nearby, whether you’re coming from Ksamil, Sarandë, or Gjirokastër. You’ll find photos, prices, reviews, and quick links to book your stay. Just tap on a marker to get more info and book in no time. Enjoy exploring!
