Discover the breathtaking beauty of Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Peninsula on a full-day tour from Rethymno. This adventure includes convenient pickup, a comfortable bus ride, and a scenic boat cruise. Explore the historic Venetian fortress, swim in pristine waters, and soak up the sun on soft sandy beaches. Nature lovers seeking stunning coastal scenery and immersive experiences won’t want to miss this unforgettable journey. With an overview of the day’s activities and practical information, you’ll be ready to make the most of your time in this picturesque corner of Crete.
Good To Know
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- Full-day tour from Rethymno covering Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Peninsula, priced from €250 per person with pickup, transportation, and boat cruise.
- Convenient pickup available from Rethymno town and surrounding areas, with flexibility to join directly from accommodations.
- 11-hour tour includes 2-hour bus journey to Kissamos Port, 75-minute boat cruise to Gramvousa, and 20-minute ferry ride to Balos Lagoon.
- Explore the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa, with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation, followed by 2.5 hours at Balos Lagoon.
- Tour includes pickup and drop-off, boat tickets, and Balos Lagoon admission, with comfortable walking required and recommended items such as swimwear and sun protection.
Overview and Pricing
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The tour starts from Rethymno and covers the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Peninsula. Priced from €250 per person, it’s a full-day adventure that includes pickup, transportation, and a boat cruise.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The 11-hour tour takes visitors from Rethymno to Kissamos Port, where they’ll board a boat for the journey to Gramvousa and Balos.
With activities like hiking, swimming, and snorkeling, this tour offers an immersive experience in Crete’s natural beauty.
Pickup Locations
Convenient pickup locations across Rethymno town and surrounding areas ensure easy access to this captivating tour.
Travelers can be picked up from Rethymno town, Skaleta, Sfakaki, Adelianos Kampos, Panormos, Kavros, and Georgioupolis.
This flexibility allows participants to join the excursion directly from their accommodations, minimizing hassle and time spent on commuting.
The air-conditioned bus then takes guests on the 2-hour journey to Kissamos Port, where the boat cruise to the stunning Gramvousa Peninsula begins.
With these well-planned pickup options, the tour organizers ensure a seamless start to a day filled with breathtaking coastal scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Bus and Boat Rides
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After being picked up from the convenient locations across Rethymno, the air-conditioned bus takes guests on the 2-hour journey to Kissamos Port.
Once there, visitors board a boat for a 75-minute cruise to the Gramvousa Peninsula. The boat ride offers:
- Stunning views of the Cretan coastline and the Aegean Sea.
- An opportunity to spot marine life in the pristine waters.
- A relaxing break before exploring the historic Venetian fortress.
- Preparation for the upcoming swim and snorkeling activities at Balos Lagoon.
From Gramvousa, a 20-minute ferry ride transports guests to the breathtaking Balos Lagoon for an additional 2.5 hours of exploration and leisure.
Activities at Gramvousa
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Upon arriving at Gramvousa, visitors can take advantage of the various activities offered. They’ll have the opportunity to explore the island, hike to the Venetian fortress, and swim or snorkel in the pristine waters. The hike to the fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding Aegean Sea and coastline.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Break time | 1 hour |
| Photo stop | – |
| Hiking | 20 minutes |
| Swimming/Snorkeling | 1 hour |
With ample time to enjoy the natural beauty of Gramvousa, visitors can make the most of this unique island experience.
Ferry Ride to Balos
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Departing from Gramvousa, the ferry whisks visitors across the sparkling azure waters, en route to the breathtaking Balos Lagoon. The 20-minute crossing offers a chance to take in the stunning coastal vistas.
Upon arrival, travelers are greeted by:
- Panoramic views of the lagoon’s turquoise pools and white sandy beaches.
- The opportunity to swim in the shallow, crystal-clear waters.
- The chance to explore the natural wonders of Balos, including its unique geological formations.
- A relaxing 2.5-hour stay to fully immerse in the serene, unspoiled beauty of this picturesque destination.
Activities at Balos Lagoon
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Visitors arriving at Balos Lagoon are immediately captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views.
Upon reaching the lagoon, travelers have 2.5 hours to explore and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to enjoy the serene beauty.
For those seeking a closer look, a short hike to the best vantage points offers sweeping vistas of the lagoon and the nearby Gramvousa Peninsula.
With ample time to relax on the soft, white sand beaches, Balos provides an idyllic setting to soak up the Mediterranean sun and bask in the tranquility of this natural wonder.
Return Journey
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After enjoying their time at the Balos Lagoon, travelers board the ferry for the return journey.
The 80-minute ferry ride back to Kissamos Port offers more stunning views of the Cretan coastline and Aegean Sea.
Once back on land, the group boards the air-conditioned bus for the 2-hour drive back to Rethymno.
The tour includes:
- Pickup and drop-off services from various locations around Rethymno.
- Knowledgeable tour guides to provide commentary throughout the day.
- Air-conditioned bus transportation for the roundtrip journey.
- Free time and activities at both Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon.
Inclusions and Important Info
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The tour includes pickup and drop-off services from various locations around Rethymno, as well as an air-conditioned bus for the roundtrip journey.
Boat tickets cost €38 per adult and €19 per child (3-12 years). Admission to the Balos Lagoon is €1 for visitors over 13 years of age.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so guests should ensure they can comfortably walk and hike.
Recommended items to bring include comfortable shoes, sun hats, swimwear, sunscreen, and beachwear.
Pets aren’t allowed on the tour. Visitors should have cash on hand to pay for the boat tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
The tour is generally suitable for all ages, but there’s a minimum age requirement of 3 years old for children to participate. Visitors under 13 years old get a discounted boat ticket price.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for the tour. However, there is also an onboard snack bar available during the boat cruise portion of the excursion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Travellers can speak with the tour operator to inquire about extended tour options and pricing. However, the standard 11-hour tour may already provide ample time to explore the Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Peninsula.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?
While special equipment isn’t required, the tour organizers recommend bringing comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear, and snorkel gear to fully enjoy the swimming and snorkeling activities at Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for group bookings. Groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount on the total cost. To take advantage of this, travelers should inquire about group rates when making their reservation.
The Sum Up
This full-day tour from Rethymno provides an opportunity to explore the breathtaking Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Peninsula. Travelers will enjoy convenient pickup, comfortable transportation, and scenic boat cruises. With activities like exploring a Venetian fortress, swimming in pristine waters, and relaxing on sandy beaches, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. The tour’s inclusions and important information ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.