Slabs of blue - Crete

The island of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands has a multitude of hidden gems. Here are a few as seen through my eyes (and felt beneath my toes) .

Balos

Half an hour or so drive from Chania Old Town to Kissamos the journey begins. It is here that the Gramvousa/Balos ferry whisks you away to a place like no other in the world.

Working out where to buy your tickets before rushing frantically to the port makes for an authentic Greek experience - but rest assured, a calming exhale will follow suit.

The scenic ride along the water doesn’t quite prepare you for what’s to come. It’s only when the shoreline comes into frame that you’re sucked in at quick sand pace.

Balos blues | by Mary Karananos | Crete, 2014

Before you is a magnificent scene where two blue shores almost kiss. It’s not long before you drop your gear and dive in to join them.

Instantly, a multitude of different shades consume you; from translucent greens to vibrant aqua hues. Every dive under brings memories of life’s greatest joys to the surface. As you bask in this state, time stands still.

Up a sandy path you can take in the incredible formation of Balos; you imagine what this might look like through an airplane window before heading back onto the ferry and over to the next stop; the island of Imeri Gramvousa.

This beautiful island carries with it some history; a Venetian Fortress sits atop the rocky formation overlooking the beach at 137m high. This fort was also once used by pirates.

But what really captures your attention is an old myth that tells of a great treasure buried on the island. Something reins true about this, you just can’t quite put your finger on it.

- M x

From blue to bluest | by Mary Karananos | Balos, Crete, 2014