Best day trips around Elounda | Traveler by Unique
Spinalonga Island
There is not a possible way that visitors of Elounda will not get the chance to observe and visit the infamous Island of Spinalonga. The small Island used to serve as a Venetian fortress, during the 15th century, which had 40 cannons protecting the Mirabello bay. When the Island was abandoned, Greek authorities decided to establish a leper colony there. Patients from Crete and from other parts of Greece were transferred there in order to be isolated from the rest of the population. The lepers’ colony existed there until 1957 when a cure was found. Spinalonga Island remains there as a reminder of the people that used to be living there. Visitors can access the Island with a boat and walk around the Venetian fortress. The Island has its own magical atmosphere and its history attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Plaka Village
For those who wish to get away from the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Elounda and enjoy a quieter day trip, there is a charming village just a few kilometers away from the resort. Plaka is one of those picturesque Cretan villages that one should explore. The village is easily accessible from Elounda via a car or bus and forms one of the must-visit nearby locations. The village has numerous restaurants and fish taverns along the seaside, where visitors can enjoy freshly made and delicious meals. In addition, Plaka has some beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters and multiple shops close to the harbor. Due to its exceptional atmosphere, tasty food and beautiful beaches, the village saw its popularity rising during the last few years. However, it has to be noted that it is still less crowded and quieter than Elounda.
Knossos Palace
Visiting the Knossos Palace would not only be a great day trip but also, it would be a lifetime opportunity to observe and understand the ancient Minoan civilization. Knossos Palace can be found south of Heraklion city and a day trip there enables visitors to immerse themselves into an unforgettable sightseeing experience. The archaeological site includes settlements from the Neolithic period and from the 2nd AD century. The Palace and the structures that can be found there were forming one of the most important cultural and political centre of the Minoan civilization and during your time there, you will get the chance to learn some interesting facts regarding the place and its history.
Agios Nikolaos
In a short distance, a few kilometers away, there is one of the most beautiful small towns of Crete. Agios Nikolaos is the perfect destination for a day trip that can combine all; beaches, exceptional food, vibrant nightlife, and the ultimate shopping experience. This seaside town is ideal for walking due to its size and due to the fact that the main points of interest can be found around the town’s harbor. The town is mostly preferred by groups of friends and couples who wish to enjoy the Cretan beaches away from the masses of tourists that other cities in Crete may have. Therefore, it forms a great place to relax and enjoy your time.
Sailing trip in Mirabello Bay
For a more upgraded and exclusive experience, there are multiple agencies in Elounda organizing private sailing trips in the beautiful Mirabello Bay. These sailing trips take visitors into a rejuvenating full-day excursion towards the beautiful and small town of Agios Nikolaos, Plaka village, the infamous Spinalonga Island and of course towards the beaches of Elounda. Participating in such a sailing trip will be an exceptional opportunity to combine adventure and serenity in a private and exclusive setting. A private boat trip allows visitors to enjoy snorkeling and swimming into refreshing waters and to stop by some of the most secluded beaches of the area. Therefore, the private boat trip forms also a great opportunity to explore some unspoiled and spectacular beaches that the area has.