The Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Full-Day Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Crete’s history and culture. Travelers will explore the once-notorious leper colony of Spinalonga, uncover its poignant past, and discover the charming coastal towns of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. With a delicious Greek lunch and an olive oil tasting, the tour promises to immerse guests in the scenic beauty and rich heritage of this remarkable region. As the day unfolds, the tour’s highlights suggest there’s more to uncover about this fascinating excursion.
Key Points
- This full-day tour explores the historical Spinalonga Island, the charming village of Elounda, and the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.
- The tour includes a guided tour of Spinalonga, free time for swimming and Greek cuisine, and an olive oil tasting experience.
- Transportation is provided via comfortable, air-conditioned buses, with pickup available from multiple locations along the northern coast of Crete.
- The tour is suitable for adults and children aged 4-10, but not recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions.
- The tour price of €48 per person includes most activities, with the Spinalonga entry fee of €8 as an additional cost.
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Tour Overview
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Spinalonga Island, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos.
The tour lasts 9 hours and costs from €48 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour is available in English, German, French, Greek, and Polish.
Highlights include a guided tour and free exploration of the historical Spinalonga Island, free time for swimming and Greek cuisine in Elounda, and visits to the scenic Agios Nikolaos and an olive oil tasting.
Transportation is provided via a luxury air-conditioned bus, with pickup options from several locations in the area.
Spinalonga Island
Spinalonga Island, once a heavily fortified Venetian stronghold, holds a unique place in history as the last leper colony in Europe.
From 1903 to 1957, it served as a segregated community for those afflicted with leprosy, a disease that was widely misunderstood and feared at the time.
The guided tour allows visitors to explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the island’s poignant past. Guests can wander through the former hospital, homes, and public buildings, gaining insight into the daily lives of those who were exiled to this remote outpost.
The tour provides a thought-provoking glimpse into a complex chapter of Greek history.
Elounda: Exploring the Village
After exploring the poignant history of Spinalonga Island, the tour moves on to the charming coastal town of Elounda.
Guests will have free time to wander the picturesque streets, soak up the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, and indulge in authentic Greek street food like pita gyros.
The town’s scenic harbor and views of the distant Spinalonga Island provide the perfect setting for swimming and relaxation.
Elounda’s quaint tavernas and shops offer visitors a chance to enjoy the local culture and pick up souvenirs before continuing the journey to the next destination, Agios Nikolaos.
Agios Nikolaos: Lake and Town
Next, the tour heads to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos. Nestled around the serene Lake Voulismeni, the town offers stunning views and a chance to explore its charming streets. Visitors can stroll along the lakefront promenade, admire the quaint shops and cafes, and enjoy some free time for shopping and leisure activities.
| Activity | Duration | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Visit Lake Voulismeni | 30 mins | Capture the scenic views |
| Explore the Town | 1-2 hours | Discover the local shops and cafes |
| Lunch Break | 1 hour | Sample authentic Greek cuisine |
| Free Time | Remaining | Relax, shop, or people-watch |
With its picturesque setting and lively atmosphere, Agios Nikolaos is a delightful stop on the tour, providing a chance to immerse in the local culture and take in the natural beauty of the region.
Olive Oil Tasting
The final stop on the tour is the Omalia Olive Press, where visitors have the opportunity to participate in a guided tour and olive oil tasting.
At the olive press, guests learn about the traditional methods used to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil. They’ll get to see the process firsthand and sample the fragrant, flavorful oils.
The tasting allows participants to appreciate the subtle nuances and complexities of different olive varieties. This educational experience provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich olive oil heritage of Crete.
The Omalia Olive Press visit is a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration of the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
Transportation and Pickup
The tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned bus transportation to and from the various destinations.
Pickup locations are available from 8 different spots, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion.
Detailed pickup information is provided 24 hours before the tour, ensuring a smooth and convenient start to the day.
The bus will take you to all the scheduled stops, including Spinalonga Island, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos, allowing you to fully learn about the sights and experiences without the hassle of navigating on your own.
The transportation provided is an integral part of the tour, making it an effortless and enjoyable way to explore the region.
Inclusions and Exclusions
As part of the tour package, the boat ticket to Spinalonga Island and the guided tour in multiple languages are included.
The tour also provides transport and designated pickup and drop-off locations. Travelers will enjoy a pita gyros and a bottle of water during the tour.
All fees and taxes are covered in the tour price. However, the Spinalonga entry fees of €8 aren’t included. Tips and personal expenses are also not covered.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or medical conditions, as specified in the participant information.
Participant Information and Recommendations
Accessibility and suitability are key considerations for this tour. The tour welcomes adults aged 11-99, as well as children aged 4-10, though infants 3 and younger do not require a ticket. However, the tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, including those with heart problems, wheelchair users, vegans, people with food allergies, those prone to seasickness or gluten intolerance, and those over 95 years old.
| Age Groups | Suitable |
|---|---|
| Adults (11-99) | Yes |
| Children (4-10) | Yes |
| Infants (3 and under) | No ticket required |
| Limitations | Suitable |
|---|---|
| Heart problems | No |
| Wheelchair users | No |
| Vegans | No |
| Food allergies | No |
| Seasickness | No |
| Gluten intolerance | No |
| Over 95 years old | No |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Dietary Options Available for the Lunch?
The tour includes a pita gyros and a bottle of water, but doesn’t specify any dietary options. Guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions may need to bring their own lunch.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Additional Sites?
The tour can’t be customized to visit additional sites. It has a fixed itinerary that includes Spinalonga Island, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and the Omalia Olive Press. Travelers must adhere to the established schedule and activities on the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour duration is fixed at 9 hours, but customers may be able to extend the tour for an additional fee. It’s best to check with the tour operator about any options to customize or extend the tour length.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?
Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. Private tours offer more flexibility and personalized experiences, allowing customers to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
There are no publicly advertised discounts for seniors or students on this tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider directly to inquire about any special offers or discounted rates that may be available.
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Recap
The Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Full-Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can discover the island’s poignant past at Spinalonga, stroll through the charming coastal towns, and savor authentic Greek cuisine and olive oil tasting. This tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the scenic wonders and rich heritage that make Crete a captivating destination.