Olive Grove Apartments

  • 9

Just 300 metres from the beach, Olive Grove Apartments is located in the charming Elounda Village. It features an outdoor swimming pool and self-catered apartments with mountain views. Taverns and café-bars are within a 2-minute walk.

Α kitchenette with an electric kettle, fridge and cooking hobs is standard. Bright and tastefully decorated, the accommodation offers a small dining table and hairdryer in the bathroom. Air conditioning and a safe are provided upon request with an extra charge.

Serving cocktails, refreshments and light meals, Olive Grove’s snack bar is conveniently located by the pool, which is surrounded by free sun beds and umbrellas. A Continental breakfast is prepared daily.

There is a playground and separate paddling pool for the younger guests. Wi-Fi is complimentary in public areas of the property.

Olive Grove Apartments is 11 km from the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos. Heraklion International Airport is at a distance of 60 km. Private parking can be found on site.

Property Details

  • 20 rooms

Place Amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Airport shuttle
  • BBQ facilities
  • Bicycle rental
  • Car hire
  • Diving
  • Kids' pool
  • Laundry
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Parking
  • Pool bar
  • Shuttle service
  • Sun loungers or beach chairs
  • Swimming pool
  • Water park
  • WiFi

Property Type

  • Aparthotels

Location

Naxou 2

User reviews

Other stays near Olive Grove Apartments

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  • €162
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Things to do near Olive Grove Apartments

Find below list of things to do near Olive Grove Apartments:

  • Olous Archaeological Site

Journey back in time and explore the ancient civilizations of Crete on a private full-day tour to Spinalonga. Drive along the north coast of the island and get an amazing view of the Selinari gorge on the way to the small fishing village of Elounda, known for its gorgeous beach.

Board a boat to the small island of Spinalonga, and learn the local history dating back to Ancient Greece. Take a guided tour of the island to explore how it served as a natural defense for the ancient city of Olous and was later used by the Saracens as a hide-out for their pirates. Discover the remains of the Venetian fortifications and learn more about the period of Ottoman rule.

Proceed to the sandy Bay of Kolokitha where the boat will be anchored. Enjoy some free time to swim in the crystal clear waters and feast from a BBQ lunch. Return to Elounda to take the bus to the pretty town of Agios Nikolaos, where you can browse the shops and visit the bottomless lake.

  • Olous Archaeological Site

Before heading to Spinalonga the first visit is an olive oil park where you can experience first-hand the standardization of extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive paste.

You will be able to taste the authentic Greek product, which is famous worldwide for its great taste and nutritional value, as well as other authentic Cretan products like “raki” and honey.

After your first stop, you reach the capital town of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos. You can discover the pretty city on your own, stroll through the shops, or relax in one of the countless cafes next to the picturesque bottomless lake of Voulismeni.

You continue your journey to Plaka, a small fishing village directly opposite Spinalonga. Here you will have plenty of free time to enjoy lunch or a refreshing swim. Moreover, from there you can take a 15-minute boat ride that takes you to the well-known island of Spinalonga.

The history and the culture of the island of Spinalonga became one with human tragedy over time. It has been an important place throughout history for the ancient Greeks, as a natural protection for the city of Olous, for the Saracens as a hiding place for their pirates, for the Venetians as a fortress, for the Turks as a settlement and for a long time the island served as a leper colony.

After your self-guided tour at Spinalonga, approximately 90 minutes, you’ll return to Plaka. There you have plenty of time to enjoy a coffee or your lunch, before going back to the hotels. An amazing trip with many destinations that you definitely should not miss!

Additional important information about the pickup and drop-off handling:
Pickup areas and times are as follows:
Ammoudara Beach road at 8 a.m.
Heraklion center 8:05 a.m.
Karteros 8:20 a.m.
Kokkini Chani, Gournes 8:25 a.m.
Kato Gouves 8:30 a.m.
Analipsi 8:40 a.m.
Anissaras 8:50 – 8:55 a.m.
Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari 9 – 9:05 a.m
Stalida, Stalis 9-9:10 a.m.
Malia 9:25 a.m.
Sissi 9:40 a.m.

  • Kolokitha Bay

Enjoy a walking tour of the island of Spinalonga during a full-day excursion from Elounda to the island. Visit Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch.

Leave from Heraklion, in a spacious, comfortable bus and travel to the designated locations, along the coast through the St. George Gorge to Elounda, a tranquil coastal resort.

Board the boat around 10:00, and visit the bay and the beach of Kolokytha, a secluded haven that offers a respite from daily life. You can swim and eat a delicious BBQ on board.

Take the boat to Spinalonga around 12:45, traveling across Mirabello Bay. Learn about Spinalonga’s complex history guided by a professional tour guide as a natural barrier for Olous in Ancient Greek times, a Saracen pirate refuge, a Venetian fortification, and a Turkic settlement. Depart from Spinalonga at appr. 2:45 pm.

As you head towards our last destination from Elounda by bus, you will have the opportunity for a quick olive oil tasting, before arriving at the capital town of Lassithi, Agios Nikolaos at around 3:45 pm.

Relax in a café next to the bottomless Lake of Voulismeni and enjoy your walk to the local shops.
Return to Heraklion after the excursion, at approximately 6:30 pm.

  • Kolokytha Beach

Relax and enjoy a 4-hour long boat trip to some of Crete’s most famous sites. Explore the lagoon of Elounda, see Kolokitha’s beautiful sandy beach, and sail arround Spinalonga, a former leper colony and Venetian fortress.

Begin the tour at Elounda Port at 2 p.m. where you get on board the boat.

Set sail towards Spinalonga Island, a picturesque islet known for its stunning scenery and rich history. Approach the island, where you will get to see the Venetian fortress, which was once used as a leper colony.

Head towards the Barbarossa cave, a natural wonder that will take your breath away. Learn more about the cave, named after the famous pirate Barbarossa, who used it as a hideout in the past. Enjoy a chance to take photos and explore the cave before you move on to the next stop.

Move on to the next destination, Skistra Beach, where you will get to swim in crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun. Admire the beach, known for its stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Take a refreshing swim before heading towards Kolokytha Beach, where you’ll get to enjoy the pristine sand and turquoise waters of the beach, surrounded by lush vegetation, providing a stunning backdrop for your photos.

Indulge in a salad and fruit bar on board, where you can enjoy healthy snacks and refreshments. Order cocktails at an additional cost and sip on delicious drinks as you take in the stunning views.

  • Kolokytha Beach

Chart your own course from Agios Nikolaos on a private half-day cruise to destinations like Dianiskari and Kolokutha beach or visit towns like Plaka and Elounda. Sip on complementary soft drinks and have access to showers and snorkeling equipment. 
Choose an option that meets your group size and space needs with options for a 4.3-meter RIB boat for up to 4 people, a 5.3-meter motorboat for up to 6 people, or a 9-Meter RIB boat for up to 9 people. Hop aboard the ship at the port of Agios Nikolaos and begin your sailing adventure.
Listen to music on board with a Bluetooth connection and craft your own itinerary to destinations like Skistra Bay and San Fwkas beach. Have the option to snorkel through crystal-clear waters or stop to purchase lunch at a seaside restaurant in the charming resort town of Elounda.
Head to the island of Spinalonga where you can admire natural beauty and historical ruins on this island that was once a leper colony. Return to your starting point at the end of your tour.

  • Spinalonga

Join The Malia’s Number 1 Boat Party!
From champagne diving to the wildest drinking games in the Mediterranean, the Malia Booze Cruise has it all! All this topped off with the craziest rave you will ever see at sea!
Make your holiday one to remember and don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime experience!!!
400 people, two decks!
Four hours of boat party
On-board bar
Swim stops
Free wristbands
Cameraman catching the action
Malia’s finest DJs and MCs
Drinking games
Lunch, transportation and more!
Every Thursday and Sunday through out the season .Available transportation from Malia at 15:00 to Agios Nicolaos port duration about 40 min drive.
We start from the port at 16:00 and we are back at 20:00
The boat party is for 4 hours
The boat will take us in a lovely bay suitable for swimming, boat jumping and playing music.
Get ready for some competition such us champagne dive and belly flops and warm up for the best rave you have ever seen on board.
Light lunch is included sandwich hot dog or vegetarian sandwich upon request.
There are 2 bars on board than u can get any drinks you like ,the prices start from 5 euros for an alcoholic drink such as vodka coke .
Djs and host will be all 4 hours playing the finest tunes for everyone to dance and enjoy the lovely sunset in the Mediterranean sea .
Arriving to the port at 20:00 and get on the buses for your transport buck to Malia .
So to make sure these memories wont be forgotten, and trust us is not always easy to remember, we have professional photographer on board, how will post all the pictures on our FB page and Instagram for free.
We start this party 10 years ago ..is hard for me to describe the best day of your holidays. Join us you will love it promise you!
Suitable for young people or for those that feel young in heart!
PS There is 3 Malia booze cruise offices in Malia beach road so for any info you can always visit us in our opening hours from 10 morning till 10 night daily from May till end September.

Beaches near Olive Grove Apartments

Find below list of beaches near Olive Grove Apartments:

  • 230 m
Schisma Elountas (Elounda) Beach is located 0.2 km away.

Elounda’s Skisma Beach is a picturesque sandy enclave, perfect for families. Its cleanliness and organization make it especially welcoming.

Little ones delight in its flat sandy terrain and the playground, while older kids gravitate towards the available water sports. Occasional winds result in bigger waves, offering simple surfing opportunities.

With convenient facilities like restrooms and showers, coupled with an array of nearby taverns, it’s an ideal spot for families with children.

  • Paralia Schisma Elountas
  • Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue
  • 1.6 km
Agia Paraskevi beaches is located 1.6 km away.

Beginning your journey from Elounda and heading towards Plaka along the coastal road, you will soon encounter a series of small pebble and stone beaches at the Mavrikiano and Agia Paraskevi settlements. In certain spots, you’ll see olive trees rooted on the beach itself, unharmed by the tranquil and saline waters of the lagoon. Occasionally, you’ll come across beach bars perched on platforms. The charming sight of fishing boats docked nearby undoubtedly tempts you to pause your journey for a photo op. As you move further north, the beaches of Tsifliki and Plaka unveil themselves, offering breathtaking views of Spinalonga, the famous leper island, and one of Greece’s most renowned attractions.

  • Agia Paraskevi beaches
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue
  • 2.9 km
Kolokytha Beach, Crete: How to Reach the Hidden Cove Across from Spinalonga is located 2.9 km away. Kolokytha beach is a secluded white-sand cove on the eastern side of Crete, in the Lassithi region, sitting directly across from the Spinalonga peninsula and about 12km north of Agios Nikolaos. Kolokytha has no road running to the sand, so you reach it on foot from a small church car park after a short drive out of Elounda. This guide covers where the beach is, how to get down to it, what the water and facilities are like, and how to pair a visit with a Spinalonga day out.

Where Kolokytha Beach Is

Kolokytha beach lies on the eastern coast of Crete, tucked into the Kolokytha peninsula near the town of Elounda. Kolokytha faces the small island that shares its name, where gulls nest offshore, and it looks across the water toward the fortress island of Spinalonga. The cove opens between ancient olive groves and old wheat fields, with the Byzantine chapel of Saint Fokas standing nearby. The setting is quiet and rural rather than developed. Remnants of a limestone quarry and abandoned farmland sit close to the shore, which keeps the whole area feeling wild. For anyone plotting a route, the beach location is 12km north of Agios Nikolaos at coordinates 35.25999, 25.75174.

How to Reach Kolokytha Beach

To reach Kolokytha beach, drive east out of Elounda and follow the coastal road past the old Elounda salt pans. The route is a scenic one, crossing a canal that French engineers built in 1897 before the paved surface gives way to a dirt track. Turn right off the coastal road after roughly 200 to 300 metres to pick up the track toward the beach. The dirt track runs for a short 3 to 4 minute drive and ends at the parking area beside the Church of Saint Luke, also known as Agios Loukas. From the car park, 2 to 3 short foot trails drop down to the sand, so the final stretch is always on foot. There are no boat schedules to note here, because visitors arrive by car and then walk in. Parking sits next to the church and stays free, but the small lot fills up fast in July and August. Arrive early in the day if you want a space in peak season. If you are pairing this trip with other stops in the area, a hire car makes the salt-pan road and dirt track far easier to manage than public transport, and you can compare options through the cretelocals car rental directory.

The Beach and Facilities

Kolokytha beach is an undeveloped cove, so plan to bring everything you need for the day. There are no restaurants, cafes, sunbeds, or umbrellas at the beach itself, and the nearest dining and shops are back in Elounda. Tamarisk and olive trees fringe parts of the shore and throw patches of natural shade, but they do not cover the whole cove, so pack your own umbrella or shelter to be safe. The main strip is soft white sand that slopes into the sea. South of the main cove, two smaller bays known as Vagi mix sand, rock, and tamarisk trees, and these quieter inlets draw naturists and anyone looking for extra privacy. Details on food, hotels, and services sit a short drive away in the town profile for Elounda.

Swimming and Snorkelling at Kolokytha

The water at Kolokytha is turquoise, crystal-clear, shallow, and calm, which makes the swimming gentle and inviting. The cove is sheltered, so it rarely picks up strong currents or big waves. That calm, shallow entry also makes Kolokytha a good choice for families with children. Snorkelling works well over the clear, shallow water close to shore, and sunbathing on the white sand rounds out a slow beach day. There are no organised water sports on offer here, so the appeal is the natural setting rather than rented gear. Hiking the surrounding trails and camping under the trees are both popular ways to extend a visit beyond the swim.

Combining Kolokytha with Spinalonga

Kolokytha beach and the Spinalonga peninsula sit on the same stretch of coast, so many visitors treat them as a single half-day out. Boat tours to the fortress island of Spinalonga run from Elounda and Plaka, and the beach itself is reached separately by the salt-pan road and church car park described above. Time the two by visiting the beach in the cooler morning, then catching a later boat once the sun eases off. The pairing works because both sights share the same base town and the same peaceful, historic character. You can read more about the fortress island and its tour departures in the guide to Spinalonga.

Tips for Visiting Kolokytha Beach

Follow these tips to get the most out of a Kolokytha beach visit:
  1. Arrive early morning or late afternoon to dodge the busiest hours and the midday heat, since the car park and cove both fill up around noon in high season.
  2. Bring water, snacks, and sun cover because there are no shops, tavernas, or umbrella rentals at the beach.
  3. Wear sturdy sandals or shoes for the short foot trails that drop from the church car park down to the sand.
  4. Pack a snorkel and mask to make the most of the clear, shallow water close to shore.
  5. Head to the Vagi bays to the south if you want a quieter, more private patch of sand away from the main cove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kolokytha beach located?

Kolokytha beach sits on the eastern side of Crete, near the town of Elounda in the Lassithi region. It lies about 12km north of Agios Nikolaos, across the water from the Spinalonga peninsula.

Is Kolokytha beach suitable for families?

Yes, Kolokytha beach suits families with children well. The water is shallow and calm with no strong currents or waves, and the gentle entry makes it easy for young swimmers.

Are there facilities at Kolokytha beach?

No, Kolokytha beach has no restaurants, cafes, sunbeds, or umbrellas. Bring your own food, water, and shade, and reach the nearest tavernas and shops back in Elounda.

How do you get to Kolokytha beach?

Drive east from Elounda past the old salt pans, turn onto the dirt track after about 200 to 300 metres, and park by the Church of Saint Luke. From the car park, short foot trails lead down to the sand.

Can you snorkel at Kolokytha beach?

Yes, snorkelling is a favourite activity at Kolokytha beach. The turquoise water stays crystal-clear and shallow near the shore, which gives good visibility close to the sand.

Is there shade at Kolokytha beach?

Tamarisk and olive trees give patches of natural shade along parts of the cove, but the cover is limited. Bring an umbrella or beach shelter so you have shade through the day.
  • Kolokytha beach
  • Sand, White Sand
  • Shallow
  • Turquoise
  • 2.9 km
Armos beaches is located 2.9 km away.

Armos, the northern area of the Spinalonga Peninsula, opposite the Spinalonga fort’s islet, Kalydon, is a unique site. It’s dotted with deserted old farms and is relatively unexplored due to a lack of roads leading to it. Besides the renowned Kolokitha beach at the peninsula’s southeast base, several hidden beaches are located in the northern part, which are well worth a canoe trip from Plaka to explore.

Vathi, one of these beaches, is found two kilometres northeast of Elounda port, on the peninsula’s northwest side. This small, sheltered cove boasts calm waters, a southeast orientation, and stunning views of Elounda town and its mountains. The beach at Vathi is a mix of pebbles and sand with relatively shallow water. Old farm remnants are scattered next to the beach, and a nearby boat platform serves as a stop for excursion boats from Elounda. Tamarisk and carob trees offer shade for resting beachgoers.

At the Spinalonga peninsula’s northernmost point, opposite the Spinalonga fort, lies the area known as Oxo Harakia or Skourgeto. The name Oxo Harakia refers to the rocks (haraki in Cretan dialect) that jut out above the sea surface at the narrow pass between the islet and the peninsula. Skourgeto, a Cretan term, describes the sharp, salt and sea-eroded rocks that are unwalkable without shoes. Two secluded, sandy beaches with crystal clear waters are ideal for snorkeling. Pottery fragments scattered around hint at ancient habitation.

Further northeast lies the sandy beach of Pelekiti, situated at a narrow ravine’s exit. The entire northern Spinalonga area, including all limestone-covered places, was previously used to extract boulders for building the Spinalonga fort. From Pelekita to Skourgeto, the area served as a limestone quarry, leading to large stair-like formations and distinctive rock shapes. In some places, the carvings extend into the sea. The name Pelekiti is Greek for “chiseled.”

  • Armos beaches
  • Pebbles, Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue

Gorges to hike near Olive Grove Apartments

Find below list of gorges near Olive Grove Apartments:

  • 7.6 km

The Mavrogiannis Gorge, also known as Skinias Gorge, originates from the vicinity of the Skinias village in the Mirabello province. Following a winding path, it culminates at the stunning Avlaki beach in Vlychadia. This dry canyon is characterized by magnificent rock structures throughout its length. Although the gorge transports water from the Areti Monastery region, it is predominantly dry.

  • Mavrogiannis Gorge
  • 8.7 km

The undiscovered Kouroukoulos gorge originates from the abandoned village of Agalianos, located in the Merambelo district of Lasithi prefecture. The old trail from the village leads us to the Lagos stream, which is suitable for hiking along its entire length. Initially, the terrain is dominated by oak trees, but as we get closer to the sea, the vegetation changes to brushwood and oregano.

To the west of Kouroukoulos lies the Patsopoulos Gorge, separated by a thin strip of rugged, rocky land known as Spathi. From the peak of Spathi, one can enjoy views of both canyons. Just before reaching the sea, the two canyons merge into one. The Kokkinos Detis (Red Cliff), a spot of exceptional beauty in the gorge, is home to a variety of rare, mostly endemic, plants that thrive in rock crevices.

Close to the sea exit, there is a quaint chapel dedicated to St. Luke, a local hermit who was fatally struck by an arrow in the canyon. Beneath the chapel lies St. Luke’s cave, from which “holy” water drips. A little further on from the chapel, the gorge opens out onto the pebble-filled Kouroukoulos beach, boasting a captivating underwater landscape. On the beach’s eastern side, a sea cave beneath the cliff leads to the delightful pebble beach of Kakia Naspa (Evil Landslide), an excellent spot for swimming.

  • Kouroukoulos Gorge
  • 9.3 km

The Skotini Gorge cuts through some of the most secluded and untamed regions of Crete. A research station for the study of aerosols, established by the University of Crete, is situated in this isolated location, far from the pollution of urban areas and devoid of human activity. From the village of Finokalias, a brief journey northward will lead you to the gorge. As you traverse this path, you’ll encounter a stunningly wild terrain characterized by bare rocks, sparse vegetation, and a variety of spices and herbs. Within the gorge, you’ll find 2-3 wells filled with water and numerous caves nestled within its towering walls. One such cave is said to have been the dwelling of a mysterious woman known as Datserolenia, according to local lore. This cave is guarded by a stone wall at its entrance. A small beach, Skotini, is situated just a short distance away.

Alternatively, you can take the dirt road from Finokalias to the Saint Andrew Monastery, situated at Cape Drepani. A section of this church is constructed on the mountain rock, with an inscription indicating that its repair was funded by patients from Spinalonga. To reach the beach from here, you’ll need to head eastward along the shoreline.

The name Skotini, meaning ‘dark’ in Greek, likely originates from the high, closely spaced walls of the canyon which, along with the tree canopy, significantly diminish the light, giving the gorge a ‘dark’ appearance. Another theory suggests that the name is derived from the numerous dark caves found within the canyon.

  • Skotini Gorge
  • 11.0 km

The Adrianos Gorge originates from the Adrianos village. There are areas within the gorge where large rocks obstruct the pathway, making navigation challenging, but achievable (it takes approximately 3 hours to traverse). In close proximity to the gorge, you can explore the Maridon and Atziganospilios caves.

The river that courses through the gorge is a segment of the Skoulikaris or Xeropotamos River. This river collects water from the Potami village valley and, after covering several kilometers, it finally drains near the Agios Nikolaos town stadium.

  • Adrianos Gorge

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