Located in Chavgas and only 2.5 km from Plaka Beach, Eagle Villa provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a patio.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 5 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 5 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa offers an outdoor fireplace. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at Eagle Villa.
Lake Voulismeni is 20 km from the accommodation, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 48 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 56 km from Eagle Villa.
from
€693
/night
Located in Chavgas and only 2.7 km from Plaka Beach, Falcon Villa provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 4 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at the villa.
Lake Voulismeni is 20 km from Falcon Villa, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 48 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 56 km from the accommodation.
from
€427
/night
Situated near Plaka Village of Elounda, Elounda Luxury Villas features a garden with trees and aromatic herbs. It offers fully equipped and stylishly decorated accommodation, each with a private pool and unobstructed sea views. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Fitted with a fireplace, stone details, Coco-Mat items and hand-picked artwork, all split-level units are air conditioned and have a satellite, flat-screen TV and blu-ray player. All units include a kitchen with a dishwasher and oven with hobs, as well as a Nespresso coffee machine and a kettle. Each has an indoor and outdoor dining area and 2 bathrooms, one with shower and one with bath or spa bath, along with bathrobes and slippers. Towels and bed linen are provided.
Elounda Luxury Villas also includes a barbecue.
Heraklion International Airport is 63 km away. Free private parking is available on site.
from
€61
/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.
Located in Elounda, 400 metres from Plaka Beach, Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa provides accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden. This 5-star resort offers room service and a concierge service. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a shared lounge and free WiFi throughout the property.
The resort will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a coffee machine, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. At Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa every room has bed linen and towels.
Breakfast is available daily, and includes American, vegetarian and gluten-free options. At the accommodation you will find a restaurant serving Mediterranean and international cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options can also be requested.
Bike hire and car hire are available at this resort and the area is popular for cycling.
Spinalonga Beach is 1.9 km from Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa, while Lake Voulismeni is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the resort.
from
€341
/night
Rent your own motorboat or RIB boat and discover the picturesque islands and scenic views around Crete. Create your own itinerary and explore islands such as Agioi Pantes or Spinalonga, or the beaches of Agriomantra and Kolokytha.
After check-in, set off from the port of Agios Nikolaos on your adventure. Choose a route that interests you and explore lesser-known areas off the coast of Crete.
You can sail to the uninhabited island of Agioi Pantes. Spot the former church which is located at the top of the island. You may also see the endangered species of Cretan mountain goats, called “Kri-Kri”.
Sail to the beautiful island of Spinalonga located 800 meters off the coast. Admire the views of the 16th-century Venetian fortress, which also served as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957.
Make a stop for swimming at Kolokytha, one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. Hike along the pathway that takes you from the beach to the church of Agios Loukas and the Byzantine chapel of Agios Fokas.
You may also choose to sail towards Agriomantra, a beach that is found at the end of Agriomantra’s gorge and is of outstanding natural beauty. Relax beneath the Tamarisk trees which offer natural shade, while there are barbecues and benches to have a picnic on the beach.
This adventure is a perfect blend of a safari and boat ride to the main area of the region. Venture through the breathtaking mountains and valleys, passing through the small villages, and explore smaller islands off the coast.
Visit the local olive oil factory and learn how traditional olive oil is made on a free guided tour. On the way back, take in picturesque views of the Gulf of Mirabello and the historical island of Spinalonga.
Once arriving at the village of Plaka, board a speedboat for the short ride to Spinalonga, which once served as a leper colony. Take a short tour of the island before heading back to Crete.
Embark on a captivating full-day excursion uncovering Crete’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Immerse yourself in Agios Nikolaos, a town nestled amidst three hills, boasting winding streets and the legendary Lake Voulismeni steeped in captivating folklore. Explore the picturesque bay of Merabelo, visit charming fishing villages, and set sail to Spinalonga, an island with a fascinating fortress and historical leper settlement.
Discover the mountainous terrain adorned with diverse flora and ancient olive trees. Pause at Krasi village to admire one of the world’s oldest plane trees and savor traditional “raki” by natural springs.
Explore the expansive Lasithi Plateau, once home to a grand wind farm of 13,000 windmills. Unveil the legendary Diktaean Cave, Zeus’s birthplace, offering breathtaking vistas of the plateau.
Opt for a delightful traditional homemade Cretan meal amidst picturesque surroundings.
Conclude your adventure in the traditional village of Mochos, engaging with locals at cozy cafes. Depart with cherished memories and a heartwarming smile, chauffeured back to your location.
Embark on an unforgettable journey blending history, natural beauty, and cultural immersion—a voyage that fosters treasured moments and a genuine connection to Crete’s soul.
At Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, we will have a guided tour around this famous island, which is just a distance of 850m. Originally, Venetians fortified the islet in 1579, by building a fortress with 40 cannons and they are actually the best preserved walls in Europe.
It used to be a leper colony from 1903 until 1957, where lepers could have a better life, medical help and economical support. The ruins of the market street with the shops, the hospital and many small houses in which lepers lived isolated, can still be seen.
On our way back on the boat, we are having a stop on the beach “Kolokytha/vathi”, where you can enjoy swimming and a BBQ lunch.
Before we take the road back to Heraklion, we will visit Ag.Nikolaos, a town with 14.000 inhabitants which is built on the side of the Gulf of Mirabello. In the centre of Agios Nikolaos is the lake Voulismeni, probably created by an earthquake. There, we can have a coffee break or a walk around the lake, which gives you a great view from above, over the center and the harbor of Agios Nikolaos. Next to the lovely harbor are shady tree-lined streets filled with shops gives you the opportunity to do some shopping.
Relax in the comfort of our air-conditioned bus as we take you on a scenic journey from Makrigialos and Ierapetra to the charming coastal town of Elounda, famous for its stunning vistas and natural beauty. From there, set sail on a thrilling boat ride to the island of Spinalonga, where you’ll be captivated by a fascinating guided tour and have plenty of free time to discover this hidden gem.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of this small island, which was once home to a leper colony until 1957, and has witnessed its share of human tragedy throughout the ages. Discover the secrets of Spinalonga, which provided a natural defense for the ancient city of Olous, and played a pivotal role in the history of Saracens, Venetians, and Turks as a sanctuary, stronghold, and settlement.
But the adventure doesn’t end there! Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the coast, as we make a stop for swimming, snorkeling, and fun. Recharge your batteries with a delicious lunch, and explore the quaint streets of Elounda at your leisure. Our final destination is the vibrant town of Agios Nikolaos, where you can shop till you drop and soak up the local ambiance over a cup of coffee.
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the best of Crete, combining history, culture, and adventure in a single tour. Book your spot now and join us for an unforgettable journey to Spinalonga!
This private catamaran trip suits better to family with children or companies of friends. Plan your day choosing the most suitable departure time (morning or afternoon). Enjoy this sea excursion in close circle.
Sailing cruise starts at the port of Agios Nikolaos. Guests will have the opportunity to see famous island Spinalonga from the water. Our catamaran Lagoon 450F* will comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests.
For adults, we have snorkel equipment, sups, tackle and fishing bait. For children – a box with toys, colouring books, board games and inflatable flamingos for the entire family. Food on a cruise is our pride. For our guests, we have compiled a Mediterranean-style menu.**
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
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.
Plaka, a picturesque village, is situated 16km north of Agios Nikolaos, on the opposite side of the Korfos (or Elounda) lagoon’s entrance, and boasts one of Crete’s most stunning landscapes. The village is renowned for its spectacular views of Kalydon Island, home to the famous Spinalonga fortress, a leper hospital during the early half of the 20th century. Access to the island is primarily via boats from Elounda and Plaka. Plaka’s existence is closely tied to Spinalonga, as it was established to serve the leper colony.
Present-day Plaka is a traditional village with charming old houses and taverns, giving a sense of time standing still for 2-3 centuries. Its idyllic setting made it the perfect filming location for the popular Greek TV series “The Island” (2010). A significant change to the landscape has been the construction of a large luxury hotel on the outskirts of Plaka.
Plaka is also notable for its two beautiful pebble beaches with clear waters. The first beach, named after the nearby Byzantine church and cemetery of Agia Marina, is located in the east of the village, in front of the large hotel. It is a popular fishing ground with a rough seabed in some parts and is organized by the hotel, providing basic services mostly to its residents. The second beach, Plaka beach, lies to the west of the village and has calm waters and an interesting seabed. It is well-organized and close to Plaka’s taverns.
Apart from visiting Spinalonga, it’s worth exploring the surrounding area when in Plaka. This includes the picturesque villages, ancient sites, and extensive olive groves of Ano Mirabello, the mountainous region west of Plaka. Venturing north of the village, you’ll encounter the village of Vrouchas with its old windmills, and further east, the Aforesmenos Cape lighthouse at the northwest tip of the vast Gulf of Mirabello, along with the area’s modern wind farm. Another recommended route is through Mirabello and its scenic villages, leading to either Neapoli or Milatos, where you can find the main road to Heraklion.
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.
Spinalonga, a fortified islet, stands as one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors are ferried over from Elounda, Plaka, and Agios Nikolaos to explore the island that once served as a Venetian stronghold protecting their Elounda saltpans. The island’s later inhabitants were Ottomans, and eventually, it became a leper colony until the mid-20th century.
While most people are familiar with this history, many are unaware of the stunning beach located on the island’s southwest part. Here, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the sea, lounge under tamarisk trees, and marvel at the fortress’s backdrop and the view of the Kolokitha peninsula.
Despite the nearby coast’s proximity, it’s advised not to swim over due to the strong sea currents and frequent ferry traffic.
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.
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.
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.
The Maliaris Gorge, which originates near the Peronides village, travels west of the Souvlos village where a trail commences, and combines with the Anemaliaris gorge before concluding at the Tzavlidon Vlyhada beach. This gorge, characterized by scrublands, expansive areas, and cave-filled walls, is a classic representation of the Mirabello region. Notably, the gorge is home to a massive cave known as Volakospilios, situated in its center.
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