Full-Day Gramvousa and Balos Tour From Rethymno

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking islands of Gramvousa and Balos, where history and nature collide in a mesmerizing display. This full-day tour from Rethymno promises to transport you to a world of stunning vistas, from the rugged Venetian-era castle on Gramvousa to the dazzling turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon. With a wealth of inclusions and a luxury bus to whisk you away, this tour caters to nature lovers and history buffs alike. But the true magic lies in the experiences that await, leaving you eager to uncover the secrets of this captivating region.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Rethymno to the geological wonders of Gramvousa and the turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon, operated by Fantasy Travel.
• Explore fascinating formations created by earthquakes over 2,000 years ago, with pre-recorded guiding available in English and German.
• Includes air-conditioned transportation and boat ride, with boat tickets and a municipal fee as part of the cost.
• Tour departs on Thursdays at 7:00 AM or 7:30 AM, and Sundays between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM, with a maximum capacity of 40 travelers.
• Recommended items include sunscreen, swimwear, and proper hiking shoes, with a focus on preserving the natural beauty of the sites.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes travelers on an exciting adventure to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon destinations from Rethymno.

Operated by Fantasy Travel in Chania, Greece, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including air-conditioned transportation and a boat ride to the remote Gramvousa Island.

Explorers can discover geological wonders formed by earthquakes over 2,000 years ago and enjoy swimming and relaxation at the beautiful Balos Lagoon.

With pre-recorded guiding in English and German, this tour provides an informative and convenient way to experience these remarkable sites.

However, reviews suggest mixed experiences, particularly regarding ferry capacity and swimming conditions, so travelers should be mindful of these considerations.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from select spots in Rethymno in a comfortable, air-conditioned luxury bus.

Once aboard, the journey takes you to Kissamoss port, where you’ll board a boat for the sail to Gramvousa port. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the area’s fascinating geological formations, remnants of earthquakes that occurred over 2,000 years ago.

After the exploration, you’ll head to the stunning Balos Lagoon, where you can:

1. Swim and relax in the turquoise waters.
2. Soak in the breathtaking scenery of the rugged coastline.
3. Enjoy the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

Inclusions and Costs

Included in the tour price are the boat tickets to Gramvousa, which cost 28 euros per adult and 13.5 euros per child. Plus, there’s a 1 euro municipality fee for adults, while children get in for free.

The tour provides pre-recorded guiding in both English and German, ensuring an informative experience. However, personal expenses, extra beverages, and meals aren’t included in the package.

Travelers should also be prepared to provide customary tips to the driver and escort separately.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Confirming pickup time and point with the local provider is crucial for a smooth start to the Gramvousa and Balos Tour.

The tour departs from Rethymno at either 7:00 AM or 7:30 AM on Thursdays, and between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM on Sundays.

With a maximum of 40 travelers per tour, guests will be transported in an air-conditioned luxury bus.

Key details to note:

1. Confirm your pickup location and time with the local provider in advance.
2. The tour starts between 7:00 AM and 7:30 AM on Thursdays, and between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM on Sundays.
3. Travelers will be picked up from select spots in Rethymno and transported to the Kissamoss port to begin the adventure.

Additional Information

Wheelchair accessibility is not available for this tour, but infant seats can be provided upon request. Visitors should come prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, cameras, swimsuits, and beach towels. Proper hiking shoes are advised for the walk to Gramvousa Castle. Guests are prohibited from removing seashells from the beach or littering, as the tour aims to preserve the natural beauty of the region. A helpful table of recommended items is provided below:

Item	Recommendation
Sunscreen	Highly recommended
Sunglasses	Highly recommended
Hat	Highly recommended
Camera	Highly recommended
Swimsuit	Highly recommended
Beach Towel	Highly recommended

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have offered a mix of feedback on the Gramvousa and Balos Tour, with reviews painting a nuanced picture of the experience.

While some were dazzled by the tour’s geological marvels and stunning landscapes, others had concerns about the ferry’s capacity and the swimming conditions.

Notable points from traveler reviews include:

1. Praise for the tour’s guide and the breathtaking beauty of the locations visited.

2. Complaints about the ferry being overcrowded, making the journey uncomfortable.

3. Warnings about the distance from the ferry to the shore, which can be challenging for some swimmers.

Exploring Gramvousa and Balos

From the port of Kissamoss, travelers embark on an enchanting journey to the rugged and history-steeped island of Gramvousa. Scaling the steep pathways, they’re rewarded with sweeping vistas of the island’s dramatic geology, evidence of ancient earthquakes. At the pinnacle, the Venetian-era Gramvousa Castle commands awe, its weathered walls evoking centuries past.

Feature	Description
Geological Formations	Dramatic landscapes shaped by earthquakes over 2,000 years ago
Gramvousa Castle	Venetian-era fortress with stunning ocean views
Balos Lagoon	Tranquil, turquoise-hued waters perfect for swimming and relaxation

Descending to the crystalline waters of Balos Lagoon, travelers indulge in a refreshing swim, taking in the serene beauty of this natural wonder. The day’s adventures culminate in a sense of wonder and appreciation for the island’s captivating history and breathtaking scenery.

Recap

The Full-Day Gramvousa and Balos Tour from Rethymno offers an unparalleled adventure, blending history, culture, and natural wonder. Travelers will be captivated by the rugged charm of Gramvousa Island, the awe-inspiring Venetian castle, and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon. This unforgettable experience is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich heritage of Crete.