26 Nov 2019
We got the public bus from Chania bus station to Kissamos and Manu and his friend met us from there. He gave us full demos and instructions for the E-bikes, which we had never experienced before and we did flat cycling first to get used to them but we were soon on our 30km (I think) round trip up a mountain to Balos. What a ride! Flat normal road surface to start with but then once on the mountain it is a rocky track. Cars do attempt to go up it too, so best to start early in the day. We saw mountain goats and stunning views. Once at the top there are refreshments to buy from a little hut and facilities, we parked the bikes and made our way on foot across and then down the mountain to Balos beach. The views were dramatic, stunning and breath-taking. Steps down are actual steps in most places but it is rocky, we wore normal trainers, you don't really need walking boots. We then spent some time on the beach in the beautiful turquoise water with strands of pink sand in some places and then made our climb back up the hill. The cycle back down the mountain is hair-raising but utterly exhilarating. Once down, we cycled through a charming village before arriving back in Kissamos. I would highly recommend. Manu was a friendly, gracious and informed guide. The E-bikes were fantastic, you get a great workout but with extra assistance up those steep inclines. Helmets and padded seat covers are provided. We had a great time.