Balos lagoon Chania, Crete

Balos is situated at the peak of the Gramvousa peninsula. The water here is beautiful jade color and is always crystal clear. It is also a nature reserve for birds, sea turtles and the Mediterranean seal.

It can be reached by car or by boat and it is well worth a visit. The boat leaves daily from Kissamos port, which is a 4.4km drive outside the city. (The port can be reached by public bus from Chania as well but indicate to the driver that you would like to go to “to limani”).

The boat trip takes about 1 hour to reach Gramvousa island (the legendary pirate’s island). There are fantastic views across the bay from the top. From there you sail for another 15 minutes to the gorgeous Balos Lagoon. A full Greek lunch can be requested for a little extra cost.

The drive to Balos is pretty straightforward along the national highway Gramvousa peninsula, the final 8km is a very stony road. It is not dangerous but just a slow drive on this part. Be sure to have spare wheel in the back of your car. When you reach the end of the road, you can park along side the goats. From the parking area it is a beautiful walk down to the Balos beach but definitely not recommended for the disabled or any unfit people.