Crete has a habit of surprising even seasoned travellers. It’s not just an island; it’s a journey. One of the most striking ways to understand its scale is to imagine a road trip from its eastern edge to its western tip, from the raw serenity of Xerokampos to the iconic lagoon of Balos Beach.

Xerokampos: Crete at its most untouched

At the very eastern end of the island, Xerokampos feels worlds away from the busy resorts of the north. This is a place of wide, open beaches, pale sand, and crystal-clear waters that change colour with the light. Development here is minimal. No crowds, no beach clubs competing for attention, just the sound of the sea and the sense that you’ve reached the edge of something ancient and elemental.

Xerokampos is ideal for travellers who value silence, space, and authenticity. It’s Crete stripped back to its essentials.

Balos Beach: a natural spectacle

On the opposite side of the island, near Kissamos in western Crete, Balos Beach offers a completely different kind of drama. Shallow turquoise waters, white sand with hints of pink from crushed shells, and a lagoon that looks almost unreal. The approach alone is an adventure, usually involving a scenic drive and a short walk down to the beach, or a boat trip that reveals the coastline from the sea.

Balos is one of Crete’s most photographed places, and for good reason. It’s bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.

How far is east from west?

The road distance from Xerokampos to Balos is approximately 300 kilometres. Driving from one end of the island to the other typically takes 6 to 7 hours, depending on the route, traffic, and stops along the way. It’s a long drive, but also a powerful reminder of how diverse Crete really is.

Abaton: perfectly placed in the middle

This is where Abaton Island Resort & Spa comes into its own. Located on the north coast, close to Hersonissos, Abaton sits almost at the midpoint of the island.

From Abaton, the drive to Xerokampos is around 170 kilometres, roughly 3 to 4 hours by car, while Balos Beach lies approximately 190 kilometres away, also around 3 to 4 hours, including the final approach to the lagoon.

Crete isn’t meant to be rushed. Whether you head east in search of stillness or west in search of spectacle, the journey itself is part of the experience.

For guests who would like to explore these routes in more depth, our concierge team at Abaton is always happy to help. From personalised driving itineraries and private excursions to insider tips on the best times to visit, they can turn a long journey into a memorable day of discovery.