Kosovo may be a small country, but it is filled with astounding natural wonders waiting to be discovered. One such marvel is the enchanting Blue Eye of Drenas, an impossibly blue natural pool hidden in the forests near Drenas. With its vibrant turquoise hue and crystal clear waters, the Blue Eye is an otherworldly oasis that looks like something straight out of a fairytale.
Location and Geography of the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye is located near the town of Drenas in central Kosovo, about an hour’s drive from the capital city of Pristina. It sits nestled amongst the mountains and rolling green hills that characterize much of Kosovo’s landscape. More specifically, you can find the Blue Eye along the riverbed of the Mirusha River, which flows from the surrounding mountains. The pool is fed by underwater springs originating from the nearby caves and mountain aquifers. This constant flow of cold, mineral-rich water gives the Blue Eye its stunning blue color.
The Legend and History Behind the Blue Eye
According to local legend, the Blue Eye was created from the tears of a young girl named Prende who tragically lost her lover, Zejnullah, while fighting in the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. Her endless weeping led to the formation of the brilliant blue pool where her inconsolable tears gathered. While the tale may be more myth than fact, it speaks to the air of enchantment that surrounds the Blue Eye. The pool has been known to locals for centuries and is considered a protected natural monument of Kosovo.
Description of the Blue Eye
The Vivid Blue Color
The first thing you notice about the Blue Eye is its vibrant, brilliant shade of blue. The color almost seems unreal, reminiscent of bright turquoise or electric blue chemicals. This distinctive hue comes from the high mineral content, including sulfur particles, that get swept into the pool from the underground springs. The minerals reflect and scatter sunlight, giving the water its magnificent blue glow. Depending on the angle of the sun and strength of its rays, the exact tone can range from light sky blue to saturated teal. But no matter when you visit, the water is guaranteed to astound you with its beauty.
The Crystal Clear Waters
Gazing into the Blue Eye, you can see all the way to the bottom thanks to the incredible clarity of the water. With visibility up to 20 meters deep, everything below the surface is laid bare – the sloping sides descending into the inky depths, fallen tree branches and leaves scattered across the sandy bottom, even passing schools of fish. The transparency comes from the constant flow of fresh water into the pool, preventing contaminants like dirt, algae and bacteria from accumulating. This filtering process leaves the water clean and pristine.
The Impressive Depth
While the Blue Eye may seem small at the surface, spanning about 25 meters across, its depth is astonishing. At its deepest point, the pool plunges down over 50 meters straight down in a perfect circle. Daring divers can explore sheer rock walls dotted with crevices and caves along the sides as they descend into the Blue Eye’s depths. But its extreme depth also gives the peaceful pool an aura of mystery, hiding what lies below.
Activities and Things To Do at the Blue Eye
The stunning beauty of the Blue Eye draws adventurous travelers from around the world looking to experience its magic first-hand. Visitors can partake in a number of activities at this natural wonder:
Swimming
Of course, the primary activity at the Blue Eye is swimming within its hypnotic blue waters. Diving into the crisp, cool water is extremely refreshing on a hot day. And floating peacefully on your back while gazing up at the vibrant blue surrounding you is an incredible experience. Though it lacks sandy beaches, there are access points where you can carefully enter the pool.
Cliff Jumping
For thrill-seekers, cliff jumping off the steep rocks looming over the Blue Eye is a popular pastime. Jumping from heights up to 5 meters lets you plunge dramatically into the deep pool and feel the rush of adrenaline. But make sure you get locals’ advice on the safest spots before attempting any jumps.
Boating
Exploring the Blue Eye by boat allows you to fully appreciate its scale and behold the color in all its gradients. Kayaking or canoeing across the pool is a relaxed way to take in mesmerizing views from various vantage points. Rowboats can also be rented for leisurely rides around the circumference.
Safety Tips for Visiting the Blue Eye
While swimming and diving in the Blue Eye is part of its allure, take care to stay safe:
– Never dive in shallow or unclear areas which may have hidden rocks and obstacles.
– Pay attention to Blue Eye’s winds, which can create deceptively strong currents.
– Let someone know you are going swimming and consider going with a buddy.
– Take caution when cliff jumping and start with lower heights first.
– Wear water shoes to avoid stepping on sharp sticks or stones within the water.
Exercising reasonable precaution allows you to safely enjoy the Blue Eye’s beauty.
Best Time To Visit the Blue Eye
Late spring through early fall is the optimum time to experience the Blue Eye. Summertime brings very warm weather perfect for swimming in the refreshing waters. The long daylight hours let you spend ample time exploring. Just keep in mind summer also draws bigger crowds. Visiting in May, June or September means smaller groups and pleasant temperatures. The Blue Eye rarely freezes in winter, but the cooler weather limits swimming.
How To Get To the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye sits about 30km south of Pristina, Kosovo’s capital. Several tour operators offer guided day trips from Pristina, taking about 1 hour each way by bus or car. You can also rent a car and drive yourself – just be prepared for windy mountain roads. Head south from Pristina on Highway R6 then turn west on the road to Drenas. Signs in town direct you to the Blue Eye parking area. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk downhill on a trail to reach the pool.
Nearby Attractions To See After Visiting the Blue Eye
After marveling at the Blue Eye’s beauty, check out other nearby attractions like:
– Drenas Castle ruins – remnants of a medieval fortress destroyed in the 14th century
– Sharr Mountains National Park – stunning alpine scenery with forests and lakes
– Prizren town – historic Ottoman-influenced architecture and stone bridge over the river
– Gadime Cave – enormous half-mile long cave system with underground tunnels & rivers
Why You Should Visit the Enchanting Blue Eye of Drenas
In a country filled with remarkable vistas, the shimmering blue hues of the Blue Eye stand out as one of Kosovo’s most magical marvels. Its vibrant coloring, crystal waters, and air of mystery create an experience that seems almost otherworldly. The opportunity to immerse yourself in its hypnotic beauty feels like a dream. Yet the Blue Eye offers real adventure through swimming, diving and boating. This serene spot exemplifies the bountiful natural blessings found in Kosovo’s landscapes. All who seek amazing sights off the beaten path will find a visit to the Blue Eye of Drenas simply unforgettable.
Conclusion
With its stunning blue color emanating from the depths, the mysterious Blue Eye of Drenas showcases the dramatic beauty found in Kosovo’s untamed wilderness. Its magnificent waters captivate all who venture to this legendary pool. A pilgrimage to the Blue Eye lets you plunge into an extraordinary oasis and gain new perspective below the surface, leaving you enchanted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Where is the Blue Eye located?
A1: The Blue Eye is located near the town of Drenas in central Kosovo, about a 1 hour drive south of the capital Pristina. It sits nestled amongst the mountains and hills along the Mirusha River.
Q2: What makes the water of the Blue Eye so blue?
A2: The Blue Eye’s striking blue color comes from its high mineral content, including sulfur particles, which are swept into the pool from underground mountain springs. This gives the water its brilliant turquoise blue hue.
Q3: Is it safe to swim in the Blue Eye?
A3: Yes, swimming in the Blue Eye is safe and highly recommended. But be sure to take precautions against strong currents or sudden drops in depth. Never dive in unclear sections. Going with a companion and avoiding alcohol is advised.
Q4: What is the legend behind the Blue Eye?
A4: An old local legend claims the Blue Eye was formed from the endless tears of a young girl named Prende, crying over her lost love after the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. Her inconsolable tears gathered to form the pool.
Q5: What is the best time of year to visit the Blue Eye?
A5: The ideal time to visit is late spring through early fall, especially in the summertime when the weather is warmest for swimming and enjoying the water. But come early or late in the season to avoid crowds.