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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.”
Get directions to Armos beaches
The Armos beaches are a group of beaches located in a specific area or region.
The suitability of the Armos beaches for swimming depends on the water conditions, which can vary from time to time.
The Armos beaches offer a range of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and beach soccer.
The availability of restaurants and cafes near the Armos beaches may vary depending on the specific location.
The availability of accommodation near the Armos beaches may vary depending on the specific location.
The suitability of the Armos beaches for families with children depends on the water conditions and the availability of facilities such as lifeguards and playgrounds.
The best time to visit the Armos beaches may vary depending on the weather and the season. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before planning a visit.
Visitors should follow the rules and regulations set by the local authorities, such as not littering and respecting the environment and other visitors.
The water colour of the Armos beaches is blue.
The Armos beaches has a mix of sand and pebbles.
The water depth at the Armos beaches is normal.
The sea surface at the Armos beaches is usually calm.
The Armos beaches is usually quiet.
There are no facilities available at the Armos beaches.
The Armos beaches can be accessed by boat or walking.
Yes, the Armos beaches is nudism friendly.
Yes, the Armos beaches is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Armos beaches:
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.
Start with pickup from your hotel and travel by spacious bus through small towns to the picturesque fishing village of Elounda. Then, board a privately booked traditional wooden fishing boat which will take you on a short cruise to the island of Spinalonga. Hear as your professional guide will share insights and stories of a former leper colony and the history of Spinalonga Island.
After a guided walking tour on the island, board the boat and sail to the beautiful village of Plaka. Upon arrival, enjoy a lunch of local specialties in a traditional Greek tavern with a cozy atmosphere. Choose between fresh fish or chicken, enjoy some local wine, and enjoy the views of the coastline.
Finally, visit the town of Agios Nikolaos for some time for further exploring and shopping. At the end of the tour, the bus will take you back to your pickup point near your hotel.
Experience the Olive Oil Park: A Taste of Greece
Begin your journey with a visit to an olive oil park, where you can witness the fascinating process of making extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive paste. Discover the artistry behind these traditional Greek staples and enjoy a tasting session featuring classic Greek foods renowned for their flavor and health benefits. Delight in authentic Cretan products like “raki” and honey, which enhance the culinary experience.
Explore Agios Nikolaos: The Heart of Lasithi
Next, we head to Agios Nikolaos, the vibrant capital of Lasithi. Here, you can explore the picturesque city at your own pace. Browse through charming shops or relax at one of the many coffee shops overlooking the stunning Voulismeni Lake. Take your time to soak in the beauty and atmosphere of this delightful city.
Relax in Plaka: A Quaint Fishing Village
Our tour continues to the charming fishing village of Plaka, situated across the water from Spinalonga. Enjoy plenty time to unwind, take a refreshing swim, or savor a leisurely lunch. For those interested in further exploration, a short 15-minute boat ride will take you to the famous island of Spinalonga.
Discover the Historical Significance of Spinalonga
Spinalonga Island has a profound historical and cultural significance, marked by the deep sadness of its past inhabitants. Over the centuries, this island has served as a refuge for various civilizations, including the Greeks, Saracens, Venetians, and Turks. Additionally, it was once home to a leper colony, leaving an indelible mark on its history.
Enjoy Elounda: A Luxurious Retreat
Our final stop is the charming village of Elounda, a popular holiday destination. Known for its luxurious five-star hotels, Elounda attracts tourists seeking an upscale vacation experience in Greece. Before we conclude our tour, take some time to enjoy a coffee and explore the scenic bay, making the most of your visit to this picturesque locale.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Journey
Embark on this enriching journey through Crete, where each stop offers a unique glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty. From the culinary delights of the olive oil park to the historical depth of Spinalonga and the luxurious charm of Elounda, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Book your adventure today and discover the magic of Crete.
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.
Enjoy a fun cruise in the Greek sun with a barbecue by the sea. Explore Kolokytha Bay and the historical island of Spinalonga. Start your day boarding the boat at the pretty harbour of Agios Nikolaos. Cruise across the beautiful Bay of Mirabello before arriving at the legendary island of Spinalonga.
On Spinalonga island you will have an hour and a half to tour around and explore the Venetian fortifications and old homes of the victims of leprosy. Learn about the history and people who lived on the island during the first half of the 20th century from the printed guide that will be given to you free of charge.
Later the boat takes you on the other side of the Kolokytha island and moors at the beach of the same name. Kolokytha is a beautiful bay with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Relax, swim and sunbathe while the boat crew prepares a hearty barbecue for you. Enjoy grilled pork chops, cabbage salad, bread, wine and seasonal fruits.
Join us on a relaxing boat trip to the coastal areas of Elounda and Spinalonga Island. Swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing are some of the activities on this trip.
You will be able to take a boat ride around the famous lepers’ island Spinalonga and admire its beauty from another point of view.
Next with our boat we will have the chance to stop at the famous pirate’s Barbarossa Cave where he searched for refuge and then he managed to conquer the island.
Then we make a stop at Kolokytha beach a place well known for its natural beauty.
At the main time boat crew prepares delicious hot dogs to enjoy them when we are in Kolokytha beach accompanied with music and dance. On board is also served raki, fresh fruits and orange juice.
Lastly we stop at “Skistra” beach where you will be able to swim at the crystal clear water, dive and enjoying the sun in a place where very few people visit. Our friendly crew promises you an unforgettable mini cruise which we hope will make one of the highlights of your holidays.
Find below the list of hotels near Armos beaches:
Elounda Spa Villa Crete – Ultimate Luxury Resort is a detached villa with a terrace, situated in Eloúnda. You can relax by the year-round outdoor pool in the 2.000-m2 botanical garden in fair weather.
There is a seating area and a kitchen complete with a dishwasher and an oven. A flat-screen TV with satellite channels is offered in each room of the villa. It also offers an outdoor hot tub and an outdoor shaded seating area with kitchen and BBQ. The property also offers a fully pre-stocked fridge, an abundance of fresh vegetables, breakfast items, alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages and various cooking ingredients.
Upon arrival, guests are offered welcome drinks and a welcome basket, which includes local bottled wines, Cretan delicacies and a printed tour guide and map in guests’ mother tongue.
Upon check out, the proprietors will offer you, as a farewell gift, local products and special gifts for younger guests.
The property offers a spa area and a gym. Guests can relax at the spa area including an indoor heated pool and a hot tub, while they can also stay fit using the Lat Pull-Down/Pec Deck Machine, the treadmill, the stepper, the free weights, or the pilates balls and equipment of the on-site gym.
Free WiFi is available throughout. The Villa also offers free private parking. Heraklion International Airport is 70 km from the property.
from
€577
/night
The 5-star Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection offers luxurious accommodation with spa bath overlooking the Unesco-protected island of Spinalonga and its Venetian castle. It has a spa and 4 restaurants serving haute cuisine dishes.
Each of the air-conditioned suites is uniquely decorated and has easy access to the private sandy beach. They include a spacious living room with wooden floors and a satellite LCD TV. All suites also have a private pool or open-air hot tub.
The 4 restaurants offer casual beachside settings or elegant dining rooms with panoramic sea views. Guests can taste progressive Greek cuisine, seafood, Cretan dishes and Italian cuisine. An Asian restaurant is also possible.
For guests choosing private or luxury residences, an array of Haute-Living services is available, including a dedicated villa manager, a lounge with VIP services, concierge service, private check-in, sun loungers at Spina, the VIP beach area, and upgraded welcome and bathroom amenities. Other exclusive amenities include eclectic cocktail, branded spirits and all-day snacks, signature canapes by the resort’s executive Chef, afternoon tea and state-of-the art gym facilities.
The spa of Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection includes an interior seawater pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub. It also offers rejuvenating therapies, such as facial and massage treatments. Additional VIP services are upon charge and include a butler service, in-villa signature dining, VIP business package and helicopter transfer among several more.
The village of Elounda is 2.5 km away. The lively seaside town of Agios Nikolaos is within 12 km of Domes of Elounda.
Located right on the beach in Elounda, Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel features a swimming pool with a spacious sun terrace and sun loungers. A restaurant and a bar are also available, while WiFi is offered in all areas.
Each room and suite at this resort offers Cretan Sea view, is air-conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Units are fitted with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find slippers and free toiletries.
Breakfast is daily served at the dining area of Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel. You will find a 24-hour front desk at the property.
This resort has a private beach area and car hire is available. An array of activities is offered in the area, such as windsurfing and diving. Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is at a distance of 70 km. Free private parking is possible on site.
Featuring quiet street views, The Island sea view apartment provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 400 metres from Plaka Beach. It features a terrace, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 separate bedroom, 1 bathroom with a hair dryer and free toiletries, and a living room. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
Cycling and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Spinalonga Beach is 1.2 km from the apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 60 km from The Island sea view apartment, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, sea view and a terrace, Villa Elounda Plaka is located in Pláka. Guests benefit from a balcony and a children’s playground.
With free WiFi, this villa provides a satellite TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with a dishwasher and oven. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Plaka Beach is 300 metres from the villa, while Spinalonga Beach is 1.2 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Villa Elounda Plaka.
Situated 300 metres from Plaka Beach, Petra Elounda Suites – Adults Only offers a private beach area, and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
The holiday home provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and bathrobes. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Petra Elounda Suites – Adults Only.
Spinalonga Beach is 1.2 km from the accommodation, while Lake Voulismeni is 16 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 60 km from Petra Elounda Suites – Adults Only, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€297
/night
Find below list of beaches near Armos beaches:
The Tsifliki community is situated 13km to the north of Agios Nikolaos, along the route that links Elounda to the charming village of Plaka. This area is blanketed by olive groves and boasts stunning vistas of Elounda’s lagoon and the former leper colony, Spinalonga Fortress.
The local beaches are sandy, interspersed with occasional rocky areas, and feature tranquil waters. The beach named Dreros, after a nearby hotel, is abundant with tamarisk trees that stand close to the shoreline. The hotel has excellently maintained this beach, making it a perfect destination for families. The serene sea, the tree shadows that reach the beach, and the basic facilities of an organized beach all contribute to its appeal. Plus, the shops of Plaka and Elounda are conveniently nearby.
As previously noted, the most frequented beach in Tsifliki is named after an old hotel, Dreros. This name is not coincidental; it references the ancient Doric city of Dreros, positioned above the modern town of Neapolis. Dreros was home to the Dorians who came to Crete in 1125 BC, as well as the Eteokrites, who are indigenous Cretans and Minoan descendants. The hotel’s original proprietor hailed from Neapoli and named it Dreros in honor of his hometown’s ancient nearby city.
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.
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