Why Car Rentals Forbid Driving to Balos Beach?
At Autoway, a family-owned car rental service in Crete, we are committed to ensuring that your experience on the island is as enjoyable and safe as possible. While Balos Beach is undoubtedly one of Crete’s most breathtaking destinations, we strongly advise against driving there in our rental vehicles. Here’s why.
The Challenges of the Road to Balos
The route to Balos Beach is notorious for its rough, unpaved dirt track. The road is filled with steep inclines, sharp rocks, and deep potholes, all of which can cause significant damage to any vehicle, especially those not designed for off-road driving. Standard rental cars are particularly vulnerable on this treacherous terrain, and unfortunately, most insurance policies do not cover damage incurred on unpaved roads. This means that if your vehicle is damaged, the cost of repairs will fall entirely on you.
Imagine arriving at Balos Beach, only to find cars lined up along the narrow, rugged roadside. With no designated parking area, visitors are forced to park wherever they can find space, often a kilometer or more from the beach. This means a long, exhausting walk down a steep, dusty incline under the relentless sun. The congestion also creates a serious problem for tow trucks, which struggle to navigate the tight, crowded road. In fact, because they can’t turn around in such cramped conditions, tow trucks rarely venture out to this area at all. This means that if your car breaks down, you’re essentially stranded, with no easy way to get help.
Serious Safety Concerns
Beyond the risk of damaging the car, there are considerable safety risks associated with driving to Balos. The road is challenging to navigate, especially for those without experience in off-road conditions. Additionally, the road is often congested, which can lead to further complications. If your vehicle breaks down, tow trucks face significant difficulties reaching the site due to the poor road conditions and traffic. This results in delays and potentially very costly recovery efforts. It’s an issue that affects all rental and towing companies and happens more frequently than you might expect.
Safer Roads to Reach Balos
Instead of driving, many visitors choose to take a boat from nearby ports like Kissamos, which provides a much safer and more relaxing journey to Balos Beach. This way, you can enjoy the stunning scenery without the worry of damaging your vehicle or dealing with the stress of navigating difficult roads.
Experience Crete with Autoway
At Autoway, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. While we encourage you to explore the many beautiful destinations Crete has to offer, we advise against driving to Balos Beach in a rental car due to the risks involved. Our fleet of vehicles is perfect for discovering the island’s numerous other incredible locations. We’re here to help you plan a memorable and worry-free Crete adventure.
Thank you for choosing Autoway. We look forward to being part of your unforgettable journey on our beautiful island.