from 0 review
08:00 - 20.00
Daily Tour
50 people
English, Greek
Exploring Gramvousa and Balos: An Unforgettable Journey
Our trip begins around 8:00 in the morning. Our first stop is the charming town of Kissamos (Kastelli), the westernmost town on the island. Here, we board the boat that will take us to the enchanting destinations of Gramvousa and Balos . Our trip concludesaround 8:00 in the evening.
Gramvousa . Known as the Pirates’ Island. At the top of the island stands the iconic Venetian Fortress built in the 16th century during Venetian rule. Served as a strategic stronghold and later became a refuge for pirates.From the fortress, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Cretan Sea and the surrounding landscapes. The beach hascrystal-clear waters surrounded by rocky cliffs. A shipwreck resting in the shallow waters adds a touch of adventure and mystery.
Balos. After Gramvousa , we head to Balos Lagoon , where it is formed by the confluence of three seas – Aegean, Libyan, and Ionian – creating a unique and exotic lagoon.The sand is soft and white , often tinged with pink hues due to crushed seashells.
“Enjoy a breathtaking exploration of two of Crete’s most iconic locations where history, nature, and tranquility come together in perfect harmony and a paradise for nature lovers, offering the perfect spots to relax, and swim.”
Our journey begins early in the morning as we depart from Rethymno at around 08:00. The exact departure time and pick-up location depend on the location of your hotel. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive along Crete's northern coastline. Our modern, air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable and pleasant ride.
We arrive at the picturesque town of Kastelli, located in the heart of Kissamos Bay. This charming town is surrounded by rolling hills and offers stunning views of the sea. At the port of Kastelli, we board the boat that will take us to Gramvousa and Balos.
Our first destination is the legendary island of Gramvousa. Known for its rich history, Gramvousa was once a pirate stronghold. Explore the 16th-century Venetian fortress perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Cretan Sea.
Don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos of the fortress, the coastline, and the iconic shipwreck resting in the turquoise waters near the island. You can also enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Gramvousa's beach during your 1 hour and 40 minutes of free time.
After Gramvousa, we sail to the stunning Balos Lagoon. This natural wonder is famous for its soft, white sand, often tinged with pink hues from crushed shells.
The shallow, warm waters of the lagoon shimmer in shades of turquoise, green, and blue, making it an unforgettable swimming spot. Balos is also a unique geographical feature where three seas – the Aegean, Libyan, and Ionian – meet, creating a truly magical setting. Enjoy 2 hours and 30 minutes of free time to relax on the beach, take a dip in the lagoon, or simply marvel at the breathtaking scenery.
We board the boat for our return trip to the port of Kastelli Kissamos, arriving at approximately 18:00. The tranquil cruise back offers more opportunities to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
We arrive back in Rethymno around 20:00, filled with unforgettable memories of the day’s adventures in Gramvousa and Balos.
This full-day tour offers the perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it a must-do experience during your time in Crete!
The program times we provide are indicative but generally very close to the exact ones. After you make your booking and inform us about your hotel, we will provide you with the exact details for the first pick-up through your voucher, either directly from your hotel or from a nearby hotel location.
Since some excursions include multiple pick-ups, please note that pick-up times may vary slightly due to the number of participants, traffic at the destinations, or other reason.
For all subsequent pick-ups during the excursion, exact details will be provided directly by our guides.
You should bring:
Yes, there is an additional fee for the ferry from Kasteili to Balos-Gramvousa (approximately €30) plus ecological fee (€1)
These fee prices you will pay in cash uppon arrival.
At Gramvousa, you will have 1 hour and 40 minutes to explore the island and enjoy its crystal-clear waters.
At Balos Lagoon, you will have 2 hours and 30 minutes to relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Yes, the tour is family and enderly-friendly. However, the hike to the fortress on Gramvousa may not be suitable for very young children or individuals with mobility issues.
Gramvousa has limited shaded areas, while Balos Lagoon offers natural shade in some spots. We recommend bringing a beach umbrella if you are sensitive to the sun.
In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled for safety reasons. You will be informed in advance, and alternative arrangements will be offered.
Absolutely! Both destinations offer stunning scenery, making them ideal for photography. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone!
Yes, restrooms are available both on the boat and at certain stops during the trip.
Member Since 2024
