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Elounda is a small town located on the northeastern coast of Crete, Greece, that has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town is situated on the beautiful Mirabello Bay and is surrounded by several secluded beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling. Visitors can also enjoy water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing, or take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mirabello Bay.
One of the main attractions of Elounda is the traditional fishing village, where visitors can watch the local fisherman bring in their daily catch and sample the freshest seafood at the local tavernas. The town is also home to several luxury resorts and hotels, making it a popular destination for those looking for a high-end vacation experience. Additionally, Elounda is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with many historical and cultural attractions nearby such as the ancient city of Olous, the Monastery of Panagia Kera, and the island of Spinalonga, which is known for its Venetian fortress and a leper colony.
Elounda is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, with Elounda beach being the most famous. Visitors can also take a boat trip to the nearby island of Kolokytha, which is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town of Elounda is also home to several traditional villages and hamlets, which offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s traditional way of life.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Elounda offers opportunities for hiking and cycling in the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take a guided walk to the nearby village of Voulismeni, which is known for its picturesque setting and traditional architecture.
In conclusion, Elounda is a charming and picturesque town that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and luxury amenities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous getaway, Elounda has something to offer everyone.
Elounda, a serene and picturesque resort town in Crete, is a magnet for those seeking luxury and tranquility. Known for its upscale hotels and villas, it caters to travelers looking for an opulent escape. Despite its small size, Elounda offers an array of amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable stay for its guests. From lavish hotels to cozy guesthouses, Elounda provides diverse accommodation options suitable for every preference. Explore below for a comprehensive list of stays in Elounda Town.
Set in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Boho Sea View Apartments offers air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with sea views.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Boho Sea View Apartments.
from
€72
/night
Situated in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Elounda Square Home offers air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a terrace with sea views.
A bicycle rental service is available at the apartment.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from Elounda Square Home, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.
from
€77
/night
Boasting city views, Elounda Port Apartment features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 300 metres from Elounda Beach. It features mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower.
Skisma Beach is 500 metres from the apartment, while Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Elounda Port Apartment.
Located in Elounda, 300 metres from Elounda Beach and 500 metres from Skisma Beach, Artemis apartment first floor provides air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. This apartment is 14 km from Agios Nikolaos Port and 37 km from Lixnostatis Folk Museum.
The apartment comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with city views.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Artemis apartment first floor.
Set 300 metres from Elounda Beach, 500 metres from Skisma Beach and 11 km from Lake Voulismeni, Cute apartment in the centre of Elounda offers accommodation located in Elounda. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
With direct access to a balcony, the air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom. Offering a terrace with quiet street views, this apartment also has a flat-screen TV, a well-equipped kitchenette with a fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware, as well as 1 bathroom with a bath and a hair dryer.
Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the apartment, while Agios Nikolaos Port is 14 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Cute apartment in the centre of Elounda.
from
€59
/night
E.Berdufi Apartament Sea View has a balcony and is situated in Elounda, within just 500 metres of Elounda Beach and 700 metres of Skisma Beach. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned apartment is composed of 1 separate bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom. A flat-screen TV is offered.
Cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Lake Voulismeni is 11 km from the apartment, while Panagia Kera Church (in Kritsa) is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from E.Berdufi Apartament Sea View.
In Elounda, adventures await for all – from lounging on hidden beaches to snorkeling in Mirabello Bay’s crystal waters. Explore the quaint fishing village, dive into history at ancient Olous, or visit the Monastery of Panagia Kera. Don’t miss Spinalonga Island, famed for its Venetian fortress and intriguing past as a leper colony. See our list below for more captivating experiences in and around Elounda.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The small island of Kolokytha is situated directly across the Spinalonga Peninsula, a mere 12km north of Agios Nikolaos and nearby Elounda. The island faces the stunning Agios Loukas beach, also known as Kolokytha beach.
Kolokytha Beach, a secluded sandy haven, is nestled amidst protective cliffs. Known for its tranquil and crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for a range of activities like swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports. This beach is a hotspot for recreation, offering opportunities for camping, snorkelling, and hiking. Its remote charm is enhanced by unspoiled, clear waters and a natural setting free from the clutter of umbrellas and sunbeds.
To reach the beach, a picturesque route from Elounda town is necessary, which takes you eastwards along the coastal road past the old Elounda salt pans. This road traces a thin stretch of land towards the Spinalonga Peninsula, sometimes mistakenly referred to as Kolokytha. Along this route, you will encounter a small canal created by the French army in 1897 to connect the Elounda lagoon to Mirabelo Bay. Surrounded by windmills, a charming bridge and boats in the canal, the landscape is truly unique. The road then transitions into a dirt track where you must make a right turn after 200-300m. This track will lead you across the Spinalonga Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of its rocky shores and deserted farms.
After a brief 3-4 minute journey, you will arrive at the church of Saint Luke, where it’s recommended to park. From here, you can see Kolokytha island, home to thousands of nesting gulls. The north reveals the Byzantine chapel of Saint Fokas, built to honor Byzantine emperor Nicephorus Phocas who freed Crete from the Arabs in 961 AD.
Though hidden from view at the chapel, the beach is nearby. Follow one of the 2-3 foot trails downhill and you’ll soon discover one of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. This secluded cove, with white sand and crystal-clear calm waters, is nestled among ancient olive groves and wheat crops. Despite its popularity and potential crowding during peak times, an early morning or late afternoon visit will reassure you of the beach’s exceptional charm.
If solitude is what you seek, head southwards beyond the beach’s right edge. Here, you’ll find two quiet bays with sand, rocks, and several tamarisk trees, named Vagi after the Greek word for the Cretan date palm. While less striking than Kolokytha, they offer a haven for nudists and those seeking tranquillity. You can still see remnants of a small limestone quarry nearby. The broader area is dotted with abandoned farmlands and an old farmhouse close to the beaches.
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.”
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 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.
Elounda is located on the north-eastern coast of the island of Crete, in Greece, roughly 70 km east of Heraklion.
Elounda offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, including swimming and sunbathing on secluded beaches, snorkelling and diving in the crystal clear waters of the Mirabello Bay, exploring the traditional fishing village, visiting historical and cultural sites, and participating in water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing.
Yes, Elounda is known for its luxury resorts and hotels, making it a popular destination for those looking for a high-end vacation experience.
Yes, visitors can take a boat tour to the island of Spinalonga, which is known for its Venetian fortress and a leper colony and offers an insight into the island’s history and culture.
The best time to visit Elounda depends on your preferences and what you are looking for in your vacation. The summer months of June to September have the warmest weather, but also the most crowds. Spring and autumn are quieter seasons, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
Yes, Elounda is home to several traditional villages and hamlets such as Plaka and Kato Elounda, which offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s traditional way of life.
Yes, Elounda is a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling, with the surrounding mountains providing challenging and exciting terrain for experienced hikers, and the beautiful scenery makes it an ideal spot for cycling.
Elounda is known for its crystal clear waters and offers several diving centres that provide diving lessons and excursions to the nearby shipwrecks and reefs. It is a good place for diving enthusiasts.
Elounda is known for its picturesque setting, crystal clear waters, traditional fishing village, luxury resorts and hotels, high-end restaurants and cafes, historical and cultural attractions nearby, water sports opportunities, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages and hamlets.
Some of the historical and cultural attractions near Elounda include the ancient city of Olous, the Monastery of Panagia Kera, and the island of Spinalonga, which is known for its Venetian fortress and a leper colony.
Elounda offers opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, diving, and boat tours of the surrounding islands.
Elounda offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and guided walks to nearby villages.
Yes, Elounda offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests, making it a great destination for families.
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