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The Tiny Book All rights reserved. Later on, Spinalonga was classified as an International Hospital for Leprosy. On your return to the village, you can enjoy lunch at a traditional seaside tavern overlooking the island or swim on the pebbly beach. There you can visit, surrounded by many legends, Voulismeni lake. You have the oppurtunity for a B.B.Q. On the island you make a tour. Luckily we had phone signal and found a sort of pebble beach on other side on island around 15mins walk. Then, enjoy a guided tour of the premises, learning about the islands historical and archaeological significance. According to different sources, Spinalonga was an area protecting the port of the ancient city of Olous (today partly submerged) also known as Elounda (modern Elounda). Made NIKOLAOS FROM ELOUNDA. You have an hour and a half to tour around and explore the Venetian fortifications and the old homes of the victims of leprosy who lived on the island during the first half of the 20th century. We booked through jet2 where we got told we'd be taken to a private island with. This trip was all about the boat trip itself. Finally, dont forget to look to the shore to understand what the people of the island might have felt being so close And still, so far from the land. Worth it! And the beginning of a completely new, and unknown life. DuringVenetian rule, salt was harvested from salt pans around the island. There are no scheduled boat trips to Spinalonga in the winter, and you will have to find a boat owner to take you across. The history and the culture of the island of Spinalonga became one with human tragedy in the course of time. US$12.27 The site is open daily from April-October (8:30-18:00) and the museum opens upon request from November-March (Tel. On the way to Agios Nikolaos, revel in luxurious panoramic scenes of Elounda's elite haven. This private evening tour starts with visits to Agios Nikolaos and Plaka, and passes the village of Vrouchas as the route climbs high in to the mountains. This Tour gives you the opportunity to visit on your own way so many places in one day that if not with a local guide it would be impossible to visit and find.We visit Monasteries, Churches, Agios Nikolaus City, Spinalonga island, visit an olive oil factory where we learn how olive oil is made with modern and old machines and we get to taste different kind of olive oil . According to another interpretation the name of the island is derived from its shape, like a long thorn (spina longa), but this theory is not widely held. Next, visit the villages of Elouda and Plaka with the beautiful beach where you can take a swim or/and visit the world-famous Spinaloga which is a short boat-ride away. It was an important commercial port for the Venetian merchants as well. This church is dedicated to Saint Panteleimon the Healer and there, the priest lived on the island. All facts about olive oil, the pressing methods and grades of olive oil are explained. Here, she juggles being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours in the summer, translating, and writing for The Tiny Book and her other blogs. This fee is paid on the island and has no relation with the boat ticket.Boats:The first boats of the day depart from Plaka at around 9.00 am. No pets (other than guide dogs) are allowed in cultural sites. Gabi has been living in Crete for the last five years. >> In Winter, the island closes at 14.30 and the price of the entrance ticket is reduced, this is a great opportunity to tour Spinalonga if youre traveling on a budget in Crete off the main season. In that case, you can also arrange a pickup time if youre interested in a longer visit. Disclaimer: Posts include affiliate links to products or services and I might earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Bask in azure waters of secluded sandy coves tucked under cave-studded mountains. Elounda was a strategic port for the Venetians who built saltworks in the shallow waters. Use a refillable water bottle to try to minimise your use of plastic. We proceed to the small island of Spinalonga. They cultivated aloe and used the plant for treating their sore skin. From Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. Not recommended trip for those who aren't able to walk far or with young children. Spinalonga is also known as the Leper Island, as that is where lepers from Crete and the rest of Greece were quarantined until 1957. It even inspired author Victoria Hislop to write The Island, a best-seller since its publication. _ Recommend visiting Plaka for lunch to understand just how close yet so far Spinolonga is. After the guided tour of the island, the boat will be anchored at one of the bays nearby. Then we can visit the island of Spinalonga where you can admire the wonderful sights of the island. Stay on the marked paths and respect your fellow visitors. However, and as you might be expecting, the book that really put Spinalonga in front of a massive audience was The island. Stroll the iconic town that oozes a chic vibe & soak up the splendor of the mythical lake as you unwind at the eclectic wine-cocktail bars. Finally, in 1903, the last Turkish families left Spinalonga. These special offers apply to the following excursions/trips: Sofokli Venizelou 21, 72100 Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece. They also established a school, an open market, a hospital, a cinema, and a kafenio. Your driver will pick you up and take you to Elounda Port, where you'll catch a boat out to Spinalonga for a guided tour. Then, relax with a swim stop and barbecue lunch before cruising back to port. We visited in November, and it was about 30 degrees (86 F). You have seen it in pictures now you have the ideal opportunity to be part of it. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Five hours private charter starting from Mirabello beach hotel Marina to Spinalonga, Kolokutha and Glaria islands tour, swimming, snorkeling and fishing for fun using rods and reels and a range of fresh bites for targeting small size fish. Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels included. Spinalonga was one of the longest-lasting Venetian outposts (1715) when the Ottoman Empire had already conquered Crete more than 45 years before. Board one of the traditional wooden boats from Elounda port and let the experienced local crew take you to Spinalonga island. A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. The captain advised on arrival at Spinalonga that the boat would be returning to Elounda in 1 hour and twenty minutes, however if we wished to stay longer then the boats were every 40 minutes (end of May) and you may not get on the one you want and have to wait longer. Boats depart from the nearby small village of Plaka, but also from the port of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Search experiences that may have limited interaction with crowds. LAST-MINUTE PLANS FOR CRETE? UseFerryhopperand Skyscanner for the best ticket rates. Find great accommodation deals onBooking.com. Compare car rental prices withDiscover Cars.Check the best tours with GetYourGuide. VisitElafonisi, discoverBalos Beach, hikeSamaria,or explore Knossos.Pack theLonely Planet Guide to Creteor get mydigital guide to Chania. Combine several landmarks into one sightseeing itinerary in Crete with this full-day boat and coach tour. Glamour, grace and a generous splash of luxury. There are lots of boats operating from various places so it could be confusing which one to get (no signage) on the return however, they announced the boat as for Elounda when it arrived so no problem :). The Venetians built the bastion of Spinalonga in 1579. The Leading Hotels Of The World in Elounda, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Elounda. Spoil yourself with tailored details. There are many options where you can choose the route of your choice or on the contrary he can consult the experienced captains of our company. The tiny village of Plaka is located right in front of the islet, less than a km away. bay - swimming, sunbathing and BBQ lunch, Agios Nikolaos The Venetians constructed a very impressive fortress with 40 cannons which has been guarding the bay since the 15th century. Day trips from Heraklion and Sitia are also a possibility, both by booking an organized tour or traveling on your own. To be honest for the price we paid I find the trip over priced, you have to pay extra to get into spinalonga as well which is putting price up. 12:15 we board our boat and head off towards Mirabello and the island of Spinalonga. For RIB boat rental, a speedboat license is needed. Our tour begins when our comfortable tourist coach picks you up at your hotel. +30 28410 22462). Luxuries of Mirabello with Spinalonga Island & Agios Nikolaos from Elounda. It was written by Victoria Hislop, a mostly fictional novel based on the history of the leper colony. Quickly access bookings. On the other hand, sunscreen, and a hat are a must too. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Spinalonga does get busy during the peak summer months, so we recommend visiting in April-June and September-October, if possible. Private Full-Day East Crete Tour from Heraklion, From Heraklion: Spinalonga Island ,Elounda and Agios Nikolaos Tour, PRIVATE Spinalonga, Ag Nikolaos, olive oil factory incl Boat, Spinalonga And Bbq Trip - Daily At 10:00 From The Port Of Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga Regular Trip -daily At 12:30 From Agios Nikolaos, Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip, Agios Nikolaos - Elounda 4 hour tour with Skipper, Spinalonga and Milatos Cave (Safari Adventure Excursion & private Speedboat), Spinalonga, full day professional guided coach & boat & lunch included, Have Fun Cruising Agios Nikolaos - Elounda Bay, Spinalonga - Agios Nikolaos From Heraklion, SPINALONGA, Elounda, Kolokitha, Ag. We can customize this tour by skipping or adding extra places to visit if possible. Spinning and jigging can be combined. If youre staying in Heraklion and dont feel like driving to Elounda, you can pick a day tour to the area. The area has been a protected archaeological area since the 1970s. And in conclusion, we will stop at another fishing village and resort of Elounda. Spinalonga has appeared in novels, television series, and a short film. Read Next: How to get from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos, 51 Great Things to Do in Chania (Region) for an Unforgettable Holiday, The Best Day Trips and Tours from Rethymnon, Crete, The Prettiest and Most Convenient Airbnbs in Agios Nikolaos, Most Stunning Beaches in East Crete: Complete Insiders Guide, The Most Amazing Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete. You can rent a boat and discover all the hidden and secluded beaches of our island, along with enjoying activities such as snorkeling and rod fishing. After 1957, the island remained abandoned until the beginning of the 70s, when the local authorities started excavation and restoration works. The strategic position of the rocky islet for the control and defence of Elounda harbour could not but mark Spinalonga with a turbulent history of fierce battles and much human suffering. Visit Spinalonga Island and Elounda on this day tour. As you arrive in Spinalonga, youll immediately be taken aback by the size of the medieval fortification, built to protect the strategically important Bay of Mirabella. If you do visit in July-August, do so in the morning or late afternoon. Get picked up at your hotel and climb aboard a boat for a cruise to the island of Spinalonga. There are different options to reach Spinalonga. At KERA TOURS you can book boat trips and excursions that allow you to explore the exciting waters around Crete, both above and below the surface of the sea. The best ways to experience Spinalonga are: Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre Tours & Tickets, See more Virtual Experiences around the globe, Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island. The word leprosy comes from the Greek word (lpos) skin and (lepers) scaly man (source: Wikipedia). Theres just one place where to get cold drinks (therefore rather expensive). These organized trips normally last several hours, they are more expensive and usually include a swim and BBQ on the beautiful beach of Kolokitha (Spinalonga peninsula). Youll then catch the sunset at a high-altitude spot where sweeping views await. There is more than one book about Spinalonga, I prefer Spinalonga the True Story Document, by the local author Anna Giakoumaki. DID YOU KNOW? as well as some medical instruments related to the leper colony. To check about the prices, visit this website. Check booking info and availability here. Spinalonga is a small island near Elounda in East Crete. Take a short tour of the island before heading back to Crete. Return coach transport, the boat ride to Spinalonga, and select hotel pickup and drop-off in north-coast resorts included. Much later, in 1957, another name, Kalydon, was proposed for the island, in an unsuccessful attempt to replace the Latinate Spinalonga with a Greek name. Since a cure for leprosy had not been found, the affected ones were sent to live isolated on Spinalonga. Originally, Spinalonga was not an island it was part of the island of Crete. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "ad73158139820b4a94b1be44953c2e15" );document.getElementById("a31670a0aa").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Actually, the best gift you could have given her is a lifetime of adventures. These now host permanent exhibitions dedicated to showcasing findings from different eras (the board games found are impressive!) The boat trip begins at approximately 9:30 AM every day from the main port of Elounda village. High up the main road, and close to the hospital, stands the second church of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos. we have a traditional Cretan Lunch in the old village of Mochos where we visit a few beautiful churches, Hop on a private boat to discover the island of Spinalonga. There you will have time to explore this island. The first church you will encounter as you follow the path is right in the middle of the village. Entrance to Spinalonga is 8 (reduced 4) and guides can be booked here: Theres is a cafe, toilet and souvenir shop on Spinalonga but dont forget to pack everything you need for a day out in the sun (hat, sun cream, sun glasses, water bottle). After docking back at Elounda, drive to Agios Nikolaos to see its harbor and reputedly bottomless lake. 51 Great Things to Do in Chania (Region) for an Unforgettable HolidayThe Best Day Trips and Tours from Rethymnon, CreteThe Prettiest and Most Convenient Airbnbs in Agios NikolaosMost Stunning Beaches in East Crete: Complete Insiders GuideThe Most Amazing Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete. Some links are affiliate links, this means that if you click on a link and purchase an item, I might receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. The walls appear as impenetrable now as they once were to countless invaders. We paid 10 for two cornettos ! Unforgettable Day Trip to the Lasithi Plateau, Crete, Amazing Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Your email address will not be published. Visitors with disabilities can follow the peripheral path around the island but not explore the interior. Multi-day Tours, 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours, Nature & Wildlife Tours, Food Tours, Things to do near Boat Day Trips Spinalonga. P7_initTP(10,0); Worth the money and the history of the island is fascinating. Travel to Elounda and cruise to Spinalonga in Mirabello Bay, where a Venetian fortress and old village oncehouseda leper colony. The last resident of Spinalonga was a priest who left in 1962. The organisation of the community stretched to the creation of a theatre on the northern part of Spinalonga. Looking for great ideas to build your holiday around? We then return to Agios Nikolaos where you have time to look at the shop windows and visit the bottomless lake, where the Lotus Eaters the well-known film was shot. When embarking on a visit, dont miss these Spinalonga sights and places to see. If you visit Spinalonga outside the tourist season, the chances are you wont meet anyone except the archaeological team working there. Go beyond Heraklion to visit the island of Spinalonga on a day trip by coach and boat. Visit special natural and historical sites, that can only be reached by boat, like the former lepra colony Spinalonga, Chrissi Island with its unique landscape and beautiful golden beach or the magnificent Gramvousa Island at the very far west end of Crete. Today thousands of tourists visit Spinalonga each summer by boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Plaka, for a tour of its ruined buildings, which the Archaeological Service is laboriously trying to maintain. All the necessary information and historical data about the island can be found in the printed guide we provide you free of charge. So, it took me two hours to see the island really well, but you can easily see it in less time. Initially, patients arrived from Crete, but after the unification with Greece (1913), the island also received patients from the mainland. Shes written forGreek Reporter, published three travel guides about Greece, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person would be able to handle. This price does not include the cost of the entrance ticket to the Spinalonga archaeological site, which was 8 in 2017. BBQ and private beach/ swimming was good - the sea was very refreshing! First of all I have to give a lovely review for our tour guide Maria, she made this trip worth while in the end. All your holiday planning needs in one place, letting you book direct and benefit from official online rates. During Venetian occupation, the island was carved out of the coast for defensive purposes and a fort was built there. Spinalonga Island - Guided tour around the Venetian Fortress, You wont only tour Spinalonga with an official guide, but the itinerary also includes a visit to Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and Elounda. You can see down below that Viator has good offers from Rethymno and Heraklion, remember to check the reviews before booking! There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda. The boat crossing costs 10 (5 reduced) from Plaka and 12 (6 reduced) from Elounda and 16 from Agios Nikolaos. Pay attention to the maps along the road, they tell you where youre standing, what route to follow, and what buildings you can see from that position. I stopped for pictures and to see the museum in detail, but I also walked on different routes. If there is a must-see on Crete, it is surely this multifaceted Tour. The romantic atmosphere of the island along with the extraordinary landscapes makes the cruise ideal for unforgettable memories surrounded by your family and closest friends. This means that youll be traveling with more people, but also that you wont find this trip available off-season. First, carry plenty of water. Six hours private charter starting from Mirabello beach hotel Marina to Kolokutha, Glaria, Spinalong island and Aforesmenos cape, Fishing offshore, game fishing targeting large fish by trolling fishing lures and multiple lines are used behind the boat. Boats leave regularly from Plaka, just opposite Spinalonga, and every 30 minutes from Elounda, from around 9:00-10:00 until 17:00-18:00. Port of Schisma Eloundas (easily accessible by bus/taxi/private car from Agios Nikolaos). Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. One doctor visited from Crete, as long as he was treating something else. Find tickets & tours worldwide. Uncover the fascinating history of Spinaloga Island on this full-day tour from Agios Nikolaos. If youre more on a budget, check prices and availability in the hotels and rooms in Agios Nikolaos. Hop off in the village of Plaka to indulge in the seafood tastes of delicious tavernas on the waterfront. Bigger ships cover the route Agios Nikolaos Spinalonga every day. The crossing from Plaka to Spinalonga takes just 10mins and around 20mins from Elounda. Be your own captain! Search experiences with increased health and safety practices. Afterwards, the tour will ascend to the Diktaion Andron, an ancient cave believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. After leaving the city, we head to a small fishing village, where we board a tourist boat and sail to the island of Spinalonga. To get to Spinalonga you must take the boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka. Depending on your interest, an hour should be enough for a visit. Continue to the sandy bay of Kolothika for swimming and free time for lunch. The tiny, teardrop-shaped island of Spinalonga, just off the southern coast of Cretes Lassithi region, wasnt always on the tourist map. From the cramped living conditions, you can imagine the hardship of the time although a community of around 400 people did create a school, shops and tavernas, which you can still see. This page about Spinalonga island, Spinalonga fortress is protected by International Copyright Law The price of the ticket from Elounda at the time of writing (November 2019) is 12 per person. A plaque stands in memory of all those who suffered, hoped, lived, and perished on the Greek island of Spinalonga. The route along the northern coast of the island takes us to the small fishing village of Elounda. The boat will bring you to the beautiful beach of Kolokitha for swimming and a barbeque lunch (included in the price). We promise you a very nice and enjoyable four hour mini cruise - with the biggest and most luxurious boat in the harbour, which is equipped according to the rules and regulations of the Euro-Solas. During the 16th-century Venetian occupation, the invaders built a defensive fortress here protecting Mirabello Bay. This offers great photo opportunities and shows you a different perspective of the island which you would otherwise miss once on land. I only recommend things I use myself or that I believe will deliver value to you. Take a long walk around the island and learn about the Venetian fortifications. Elounda is a popular holiday resort, often visited by VIPs for the luxurious beach resorts, situated in the area. Get to the main square of the village, right in front of the port, and choose one of the many available Spinalonga boat operators on the shore. Do not take images or content from this site without previous written permission from the owner. Refrain from touching any remains or monuments. The shop on the island Is extremely over priced so I recommend waiting until you get back to the mainland! Boats depart from Agios Nikolaos in the morning. Spinalonga, Elounda Excursion, Agios Nikolaos is a trip not only to other places, but also a trip back in time, since it carries the sensation and the feel of another era. By the end of the day, visit a family olive oil production estate & let our producers immerse you into their techniques of producing delectable olive oil. Every resident left while a priest remained, until 1962, to maintain the Greek Orthodox traditions in terms of mourning times. Best hotels in LasithiAffordable: Porto Maltese and Katia Apartment in town.Mid-range: Ostria Apartments in Ammoudara or Villa Olga.Luxury: Elounda Peninsula in Elounda and Miramare Resort in Agios.Check also Rental Homes in Agios Nikolaos and Best Elounda Resorts. Boat trip is lovely as well. Maybe the most famous part of the history of Spinalonga is the one that starts with the establishment, in 1903, of a leper colony active until 1957. A fun and sun cruise with a barbeque by the sea, relaxing moments around the surreal Kolokytha Bay and an exceptional visit to the stunning and historic island of Spinalonga. in Zurich & Berlin. There are endless accommodation opportunities along the coast of Plaka and Elounda. Well, these actors had quite a story to tell. Of course, and its quite simple to visit Spinalonga if youre traveling around the Lasithi region, especially for those staying in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, as well as for those based in the nearby villages of Neapolis or Mochlos, but also in the mountain villages of Kritsa and Kroustas. Take in the incredible view of the Lasithi Plateau. Complete the experience with a coach journey to the coastal town of Agios Nikolas for shopping or relaxing in local cafes. The Tiny Book 2014-2022 TinyBookMedia