Rent 1 ATV to Explore Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Crete beyond the usual tourist spots, this ATV tour promises a day filled with adventure, spectacular vistas, and a taste of local life. The experience involves renting a well-maintained, easy-to-handle ATV and setting off on an off-road journey that takes you to the iconic Balos Lagoon and the inviting sands of Falassarna Beach. It’s a perfect way to combine a bit of adrenaline with some of the most breathtaking scenery the island has to offer.

What we particularly love about this tour is how straightforward it is—no need for advanced riding skills—plus, the chance to get up close with wild goats and capture stunning photos of the rugged landscape. On the flip side, you should consider that this tour operates on a flexible schedule, which means the total time can vary from 6 to 10 hours, depending on how long you want to linger at each stop.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local flavor. It’s especially appealing if you’re comfortable with a bit of off-road riding and want an active day rather than a passive sightseeing trip.

Key Points

• Accessible for Beginners: Easy-to-drive ATVs make this a suitable adventure even for those with minimal riding experience.
• Unmatched Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas of the Cretan Sea and close-up encounters with friendly wild goats.
• Flexible Duration: Your day can stretch from 6 to 10 hours, allowing for a relaxed pace or a more thorough exploration.
• Authentic Experiences: Walk down to Balos Lagoon and explore local taverns or relax at Falassarna Beach.
• All-Inclusive Safety: Well-maintained vehicles, helmets, and regular care ensure a safe riding experience.
• Value for Money: For a group of up to two, the cost is reasonable considering the access to off-road paths and exclusive viewpoints.

A Full Breakdown of the ATV Tour Experience

The Choice of Equipment – Well-Maintained ATVs

When considering any adventure involving vehicles, reliability and safety are top priorities. Sunset Rental provides brand-new, well-kept ATVs that look and feel like they’ve been looked after meticulously. This attention to equipment quality is a big plus—nothing kills the fun like worrying about mechanical issues or safety risks. Helmets are included, which adds peace of mind, and the machines are designed to be user-friendly, making even less muscular drivers comfortable behind the handlebars.

The Starting Point and Timing

Your day begins at 8:00 am at Sunset Rental, located conveniently in Kissamos. The meeting point is near public transportation options, making it accessible even if you’re not renting a car. The rental includes a full day’s access to the ATV, giving you ample opportunity to explore at your own pace.

The Drive to Balos Lagoon

From the start, you’re in for a treat. The route takes you along well-marked roads, offering unobstructed views of the Cretan Sea. The ride itself is characterized by a mix of easy on-road cruising and off-road dirt tracks. The key highlight here is the chance to see wild goats up close—they’re known to be quite friendly and sometimes even playful, adding a fun, spontaneous element to your trip.

The scenic drive culminates at a parking lot above Balos Lagoon, where you leave your ATV. The walk down to the lagoon itself takes about 20 minutes, but it’s well worth the effort. The path offers stunning vistas and photo opportunities, setting the stage for the highlight of the day.

The Balos Lagoon Experience

Once at the lagoon, you’ll be greeted by one of the most iconic views on Crete—turquoise waters contrasting with white sands and rugged cliffs. Here, you can spend as much time as you like soaking in the scenery, swimming, or snapping photos. The view of Gramvousa Island adds to the postcard-perfect setting.

Exploring Falassarna Beach and Local Tastes

After soaking up the beauty at Balos, you can choose to head back and relax at Falassarna Beach or visit local taverns. Falassarna’s long sandy stretch offers a different kind of seaside experience—more relaxed and perfect for a sunset stroll. The flexibility of the tour allows you to tailor your afternoon, whether that means lounging on the beach, exploring nearby spots, or simply enjoying the sunset.

Return and Final Reflections

Later in the day, you return your ATV to the rental office, completing a full day of adventure. The typical trip lasts around 6 hours, but it’s easy to extend your exploration to 10 hours if you want more time at each stop or to explore nearby beaches and villages.

The Authentic Touch and Genuine Value

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines adventure with authenticity. Instead of a bus or guided tour, you get the freedom to explore Crete’s stunning landscapes on your own terms. The guidance on riding is straightforward, and the focus on safety, vehicle maintenance, and scenic routes makes this a reliable choice.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler, Samantha D., shared: “Lovely experience. Very straightforward pick up of the ATV. The vehicle itself was in top condition and we got a bigger engine than what we had booked which is great. Spent the day exploring and drove to Balos beach with it, which was very fun!!” This highlights how flexible and enjoyable the ride can be, even if you’re not a seasoned rider.

The Value Proposition

At $149.66 per group (up to 2 people), this experience offers a lot of value. Compared to guided tours, you gain independence, flexibility, and the chance to create your own adventure. Plus, the access to off-road paths and the opportunity to explore remote spots like Balos Lagoon make it a worthwhile investment.

Practical Tips

• Reserve early, especially if you want to secure a larger engine or specific times, since bookings are often made 18 days in advance.
• Allow enough time for the walk down to Balos Lagoon—about 20 minutes—so plan your arrival accordingly.
• Use the included helmets and follow safety instructions carefully, especially on dirt roads and off-road tracks.
• Consider extending your day if you want to explore more beaches or enjoy a leisurely sunset at Falassarna.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ATV adventure is ideal for travelers who love active experiences and are comfortable on a scooter or motorcycle. It’s perfect for those seeking unique photo opportunities and an authentic feel for Crete’s natural beauty. If you’re traveling with a partner or close friend, the shared experience adds a fun element, and the reasonable price helps keep it accessible.

It’s also suitable for those who want flexibility in timing, as you can stay longer or shorter depending on your mood. However, if you prefer guided, structured tours or have mobility issues, this may not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

For travelers who crave a blend of adrenaline and scenery, renting an ATV to explore Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach offers an authentic and memorable Crete experience. The well-maintained equipment and friendly staff ensure a safe adventure, while the freedom to explore at your own pace elevates the trip beyond a typical sightseeing excursion.

You’ll love the stunning views, the chance to see wild goats up close, and the thrill of off-road driving—without needing prior experience. It’s a fantastic option for those who enjoy active days, want to escape crowded tour buses, and are eager to see Crete from a fresh perspective.

While flexibility is a plus, remember that the day’s length can vary, so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your adventure. This tour offers excellent value, especially for couples or small groups seeking an independent, scenic, and fun-filled day on this beautiful Greek island.

FAQ

Is this ATV tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ATVs are described as very easy to drive, and the company makes safety a priority with well-maintained machines and helmets. Drivers with less muscle can manage it comfortably.

What is included in the price?
The rental includes the use of the ATV, helmets, and a full day’s access to explore Crete at your own pace.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, fuel surcharge is not included, so you should plan for extra fuel costs depending on how much you drive.

What is the starting location and time?
The tour starts at Sunset Rental in Kissamos at 8:00 am. The rental office is accessible near public transportation.

Can I stay longer than 6 hours?
Yes, the trip can last up to 10 hours if you choose to extend your exploration, visit more beaches, or enjoy a longer sunset at Falassarna.

How do I return the ATV?
You bring the ATV back to the same rental location at the end of your day, as the tour ends back at the meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with basic riding, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 18 days in advance, and early booking is recommended to secure your preferred time and ATV size.

What should I bring?
Besides your personal essentials, bring sunscreen, water, and perhaps a camera to capture the incredible views along the way.

This ATV tour in Crete promises a day packed with scenic beauty, fun off-road driving, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re after a unique adventure or just want to see the island’s famous beaches from a new angle, it’s a memorable way to spend a day on this captivating Greek island.