Balos And Gramvousa

At first sight Balos is a lagoon with clear and turquoise waters, 56Km northwest from the town of Chania. Near Balos there is an island which is called Gramvousa or Tigani. In fact, Gramvousa consist of two small islands, Imeri and Agria Gramvousa.

Magnificent beaches, amazing waters and a Venetian castle are some of the main attractions of Balos and Gramvousa. Thousands of people who arrive there mostly by ferries, visit the area every summer for a unique and spectacular experience in Crete.

Balos lagoon is an impressive beach, an exotic scenery with white sand and emerald warm waters. The pink color of the sand in some places is because of shells from the bottom of the sea. The lagoon has shallow, suitable for all ages. A beach bar and many sunbeds are some of the amenities.

The Gramvousa island, popular for its nature, its legends and its turtulent history give a feeling of something magical and unexpected. A Venetian castle stands at a height of 137m since 1579 with a magnificent panoramic view. An abandoned shipwreck is located at the beach of Gramvousa island. A wonderful beach with crystal waters near the church of Saint Apostolle is situated there. Gramvousa beach is surrounded by rocks in some places and some beautiful trees offering shade. A beach bar is nearly to provide you with the basics.

Balos and Gramvousa have some of the most stunning natural surroundins with 400 species of plants and herbs. It is an ideal destination for those who love the botanology and want to explore the natural beauty of the area. Careta Careta turtles are some of the protected animals which live there. The fauna of Balos and Gramvousa is very important with more than 98 species of birds. Fauna and flora are protected from the Natura 2000 program and it is strictly forbidden to remove animals or plants from Balos and Gramvousa.

The best way to visit Gramvousa and Balos is by ferry boat which sails from the port of Kissamos. During your trip, you will enjoy the beauty that the area has to offer. Deep blue waters incredible small islands, a large cave and relaxing music are some of the advantages of the boat trip. Not to mention that light snacks are served during the trip. 20 minutes later the boat will approach the Gramvousa island. It stops there for 2 hours and then it will visit the Balos lagoon until the end of the trip. Another way of visiting Balos is by car up to a certain point. The main drawback is that the road is not suitable for small cars. You will leave your car there and you will continue on foot. It is a good experience to go on foot especially if you are fit and ready to climb down the cliff.