A Most Tricky Scenic Road to Balos Beach
With turquoise waters and white sand, Balos Beach is one of the most beautiful spots in Greece. The bumpy road to the beach is said to be one of the most demanding drives in Greece. It’s highly recommended to drive at a very low speed. It's one of the best coastal drives in the world.
Where is Balos Beach?
Balos Beach is located at the edge of the peninsula of Gramvousa, on the western side of Crete.
Can I drive to Balos Beach?
The road to the beach is totally unpaved but navigable by all passenger vehicles. There are a few sections in concrete. Any vehicle can make the trip as long as you are careful. However, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. When you plan to drive to Balos beach, ask your car rental service about the insurance for driving off-road. Quite often the agencies write on the contract “(No Balos)”. Usually, it is not a problem but it's better to be safe than sorry.
How long is the road to Balos Beach?
The road is 8.8km (5.46 miles) long, running from Kaliviani to a parking lot over Balos beach-lagoon. The road is private, so there’s a toll booth where you’ll have to pay for the entrance.
How is the road to Balos?
The road is not easy. It’s very narrow and features drop-offs. This dirt road is well-filled with stones and a little rough. Very rocky and narrow in parts, it has steep cliffs and no guardrails. The road is absolutely dirty and kind of dangerous but also scenic and great for pictures. Watch out for the many brave goats who will suddenly jump out of nowhere and cross the road. You have to drive slowly, and the last part of the route is not suitable for cars. You'll still have to walk an hour and a half before you're on the beach and back; the hike lasts a little longer because you must climb up.
How long does it take to drive the road to Balos Beach?
To drive the road without stopping will take most people between 35 and 40 minutes as you can’t go more than 30 km per hour. The drive is very scenic, and the coastline views along the way are breathtaking. The hillsides are covered in thyme, wildflowers, oregano, wooden beehive boxes, goats, and no shortage of dust. In the high season of July and August, it is so crowded that arrival early in the morning is recommended. Along the dirt road, you will have the chance to view the sea area of the bay of Kissamos. Although this does not apply to the driver who has to pay the appropriate attention to avoid the stones on the road.
Pic: Иван Лапенков