Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

Overview

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. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony. On the way back to Elounda Port the boat will anchor so you can dive in the refreshing waters.

Itinerary

1. The town of Agios Nikolaos is the capital of Lassithi prefecture and stands on the shore of Mirabello bay on the east part of Crete's island. The point of attention is the lake of Voulismeni, found in the town center, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. The lake connects to the sea under a tiny road blue bridge and has a historical and geological significance due to its high depth. In the town, you can find many shops and on Wednesdays even an open-air market bazaar. Take your time for a walk to enjoy the views, enjoy some shopping or have a drink in one of the numerous cafes around the lake.

   1 hour 30 minutes
2. Elounda

   Elounda is a former fishing village on the northern coast of the island. Nowadays is well known for its luxurious hotels and Villas. The view across the Mirabello bay is spectacular while enjoying swimming in the crystal water.
   
   Elounda is a former fishing village on the northern coast of the island. Modern Elounda is very well known for the Five and Six stars luxury Hotels built in the area. A lot of them can be seen on the way to the port, where we embark to our private boat for the coastal cruise to Mirabello Gulf.

   1 hour 30 minutes
3. Spinalonga (Kalydon)

   Spinalonga, the main attraction of the day, is a small island very close to Elounda and on the east part of the island of Crete. It is a place of historical memory as it accommodated in isolation people suffering from lepra until 1957. Through the centuries it has been inhabited by the Venetians, the Turks before it isolated the lepers. It has always been a tourist attraction, however after 2005 when Victoria Hislop a British writer wrote a historical novel “The Island” about how lepers lived on Spinalonga, hundreds of people come every day to honor a visit and learn the history of the place first hand.

   1 hour 30 minutes · Admission not included

Meeting and pickup

Pickup and Drop off provided from the areas of Sissi, Malia, Stalida Hersonissos, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Heraklion, Amoudara.
Pickup time depends on the location of the accommodation hotel. The exact pickup time and location will be sent via email.

Good to know

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
• Bring with you swimsuit and towel
• Food and drinks are not allowed on board the vehicle

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.