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Gramvousa

Western Crete, Greece

Gramvousa Γραμβούσα is a stunning unpopulated islet with beaches of fine sand and pebbles at the far north western tip of Crete in Greece.

There are no settlements in this part of Crete so it is just possible to visit for the day, trek there or cruise there by boat. However you get here, this is one of the most stunning places in Crete. 

Surrounded by rocky cliffs and never-ending azure waters, this is one place where it feels good to be alive. Atop the steep sided rocky knoll of the islet are ruins of a Venetian castle from 1582.

Feel like finding some space... with the wind in your hair?

The islets named Agria and Imeri, wild and tame respectively, lie off Cape Tigani on the peninsula to the west of the Bay of Kissamos.

The closest settlements are Kalyviani, Falasarna and Kastelli-Kissamos. 

There is quite a history here, as the strategic point of defence of Kriti. Pirate activity is legendary here, including the exploits of Pirate Barbarossa. In the many caves dotted around these cliffs, perhaps there are still treasures buried? Cretan rebels also used this castle as a stronghold.

Hiking on this peninsular is beautiful, there are ocean and cliff views, the area is covered in thyme, oregano and wild flowers, and there are views over Kissamos Bay to the Rodopos peninsula.

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Getting to Gramvousa Islet and Balos Lagoon

By Car and Hiking

There is a gravel road only and you will need a decent vehicle. From Kastelli-Kissamos in western Crete, drive west by 6 km to the village of Kaliviani, here take the gravel road north-west along the peninsula to Cape Ligari. At the end of the road, park near Agia Irini church, and take the signed foot path for about 3 hours.

A 4x4 is really the best vehicle to take - see the video below which shows the road really clearly.

This is rocky coastal country with low lying plants, without shade. Be prepared with plenty of water.

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Experience By Boat

From the lovely town of Kastelli-Kissamos in western Crete the cruise boats leave daily in high season to take visitors on a delightfully scenic cruise to the islets, with an optional walk up to see the ruins of the castle, and swimming in Balos Lagoon.

Daily departures from the port of Kissamos from 10.10 to 12.40. Return to the port of Kissamos from 17.45 to 19.40. The timetable changes according the season.

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Accommodation in Chania

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Accommodation

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Taverna

Also in Kaliviani village is the Gramvousa Taverna - relax after your swim and take in the feast of fresh air, views and local traditional food...try the Dakos salad and stuffed zucchini flowers, just something simple like the hand made fried chips will send you into raptures...

Of course, try the grilled octopus and the local prawns, don't turn your nose up at the moussaka here, it will be just like grandma used to make! One of the local Cretan dishes you could try here is snails Χοχλιοί and ask for a lesson in how to say them in Greek, now that is half the fun!

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Video & Images

Balos Lagoon below in video:

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Getting Here

The easiest way to get here is to take a hire car and drive from the town of Chania on the island of Crete.

Information for car rental in Crete here

To get here more independently, fly from Athens to Chania, hire a car and drive for about half an hour on the national road for 33 km to Kastelli Kissamos.

Flights leave Athens regularly and the flight duration is 1 hour. Ferries leave the port of Pireaus daily and the duration is 6.5-9 hours, depending on the type of ferry.

More information on flights and ferries to Crete below.

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Car hire in Crete is a really good idea as it is a large island 60 km by 260 km. There is so much to explore.

When you book with our car rental partners - Rental Centre Crete - you are supporting a local company with excellent service and easy online booking. We are sure you will be well looked after by the team. Choose from hybrid, electric or regular vehicles.

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About the Team

Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia are the
We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
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