Day Trip: Balos Lagoon by Car – The Road to the Wild West

About this tour

This journey from Heraklion to Balos Lagoon is a celebration of raw Cretan nature, shifting landscapes, and the thrill of reaching one of the most remote and breathtaking beaches in Europe — all by land. Forget the ferries and crowds: this route takes you through vineyard-filled valleys, windswept mountain passes, and finally to the rugged Gramvousa Peninsula, where a dirt road leads to one of the most stunning viewpoints in Crete.

The hike down to Balos Beach is part of the experience — rewarding travelers with panoramic views of turquoise waters, wild goats, and complete immersion in an untouched coastal ecosystem.

🛑 Itinerary & Nature Stops:

1. Departure from Heraklion (≈07:30)
   We begin the journey west via the VOAK national highway, following the northern coastline of Crete. The drive offers open sea views, olive groves, and passing glimpses of seaside villages.

2. Coffee Stop in Kissamos (≈10:00)
   A relaxing break in the town of Kissamos, the last major settlement before the wild west. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Cretan coffee or snack at a seaside café, and stretch your legs before entering the remote peninsula.

3. Off-road Drive to Balos Parking (≈11:00)
   From Kissamos, we enter the Gramvousa Peninsula, driving ~8 km on a gravel coastal road. The path runs along cliffs with breathtaking views of the Aegean and is often dotted with wild goats and native thyme bushes.
   Arrive at the Balos Viewpoint parking area, where the adventure shifts to foot.

4. Hike to Balos Beach (≈11:30–12:00)
   Descend a 1.5 km trail (~20–30 minutes walk) to the lagoon. Along the way, enjoy aerial views of Balos and Tigani Island, one of the most iconic vistas in all of Greece. The descent is relatively easy but requires sturdy shoes.

5. Free Time at the Lagoon (≈12:00–14:30)
   Enjoy 2+ hours of unstructured time in the lagoon:

• Swim in crystal-clear shallow waters

• Walk across the sandbar to Tigani islet

• Observe NATURA-protected plant life like sea daffodils, sea lavender, and wild juniper

• Photograph the stunning interplay of turquoise, blue, and pink hues

6. Hike Back to Parking (≈14:30–15:00)
   The hike up is a bit more challenging due to the incline but shaded in parts and rewarding.

7. Scenic Return with Optional Stop in Kaliviani (≈15:30)
   Optional stop at the village of Kaliviani, known for its warm tavernas and local goat cheese. Enjoy a cold drink or traditional sweet before heading back.

8. Return to Heraklion (arrival ≈17:00)