Things to do in Balos and Gramvousa

Balos lagoon and the islet of Imeri Gramvousa, with its 1579 Venetian fort, sit at the far north-west tip of Crete, and getting there is the first decision to make.

The direct road is an unpaved track of about 8 km, followed by a 20 to 30 minute walk down to the lagoon and back up; most rental contracts exclude unsurfaced roads, so a breakdown or accident out there is not covered. For most visitors the boat from Kissamos, which calls at Gramvousa before Balos, is the sane option.

The season runs May to October, and the meltemi wind in July and August regularly cancels sailings here while the south coast stays calm. This is a photogenic corner, not an easy or peaceful one.