The quintessential beauty of Balos

If postcards were invented to depict the landscape at its most idealised, then in this case, they fail miserably. It is virtually impossible to portray the wild beauty of Balos. Is it a beach or a work of art? Or is it a well-hidden –among locals– secret for over twenty years that surrenders to thousands of bare feet every summer? Turquoise water, pink shades created by the countless small shells and an endless sandy shore that feels like reaching infinity set this magnificent landscape. Crete’s famous lagoon, that sheet of aquamarine blue between Gramvousa and Cape Tigani, looks like an unapproachable belle: with countless courtiers throughout the summer, you can admire her, walk along her shallow waters that boast white and pink sand; you could even try to take a few pictures, albeit in vain; but you will never, ever, be able to truly possess her. The bravest of visitors will get there after 30-minute walking on a dirt road, while the rest can get there by boats from Kissamos.