Sign up for our weekly newsletter and well send you our 101 Ways To Earn Money For Travel eBook for Free, plus well send you a series of emails to show you how to earn money and travel in a financially sustainable way. For excellent views across the bay, Id recommend staying on the hill overlooking the town. These quiet coves offer a fabulous alternative to the more crowded central beaches. Once you arrive in Heraklion youll need to make your way east to Elounda.
Moreover, the view across the bay is spectacular. This is a lovely area for walking. Elounda itself isnt very big and you can easily walk everywhere if you base yourself near the main beach or harbour. Youll also have plenty of opportunities to take photos and some of the tours even stop so that you can eat some traditional Cretan cuisine. Oenology is a great part of Cretan culture and it all starts from the vineyard! 
The area surrounding Elounda has some interesting geographical features, as well. Youll often have the cove to yourself. Find Okeanis on Google Maps here. Theres plenty of free parking in Plaka near the boat docks which makes it an easy option if you have a car. Boats depart at regular intervals from two boat docks so if youve just missed the first one then walk a bit further along the harbour and try the other one. 2022 Travel Belles. 
You really dont need to leave Elounda village, but it would be a shame not to get out and about and see a bit more of Eastern Crete. Its a mix of pebbles and sand here but enough sand to make it comfortable underfoot. So, without further ado, here is our list of the best things to do in Elounda, Crete. CST# 2056372-50. A good tip is to pre-arrange car hire with one of the local firms in Elounda. Travel Belles is a global community of women who share travel tips, stories and recommendations to inspire women to travel and explore the world. Relax in the evenings after a hard day at the beach, New York: Best Things To Do And Places To See, Best Things To Do In Borneo - And Places To See, The 7 Ultimate Marathons For Any Keen Runner. We found this amazing little beach while walking on the Elounda peninsula. The Happy Train tours are a great option. "Start discovering the fascinating destination you have chosen". We stayed here for 7 nights and its a beautiful family-run apartment complex. If youd like to go further there are a number of trails which head up and over the hill to some uncrowded beaches. Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more. Is the resort isolated? Its surrounded by rolling cliffs covered in Mediterranean greenery, the perfect place to lay ones blanket and take in the brilliant sunlight and lulling sound of the waves. You can contact them on +30 2841 041752 but just turn up, no need to book. Here youll find extensive archaeological excavations of the palace which date back to around 2AD. We did see quite a few people walking as well. Although the locals know where to find it, you wont find many tourists over this way. The views are absolutely spectacular. Walk through the archway and youll emerge into a world of narrow lanes and coloured houses. Its past is connected with leprosy too as the fortress was a leper hospital for the first half of the 21st Century.
Plaka beach was originally a nudist beach, but is now one of the most popular in Crete. Walk up the small road/track to start with. It is a legitimate challenge to decide where to begin when it comes to the incredible island of Crete. Once on the island of Spinalonga, you need to buy an entrance ticket at the small kiosk for 8 Euros. Its open for lunch from 11.30 am to 4.30 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 11 pm. Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area. Renowned as the location of the mythical labyrinth, Knossos Palace is just south of Heraklion. At 25 Euros per person, its a cheaper alternative if there are only 1 or 2 of you in your group. Explore the great outdoors at Lake Voulismeni, a lovely green space in Agios Nikolaos Town. Learn more here. Agios Nikolaos is approximately 10km south of Elounda and is a good choice if youre looking for somewhere a bit more lively for a day out. If you want a change of pace, consider engaging in some water sports! 8. - MHTE GR65465498713. Are you looking for a fun way to tour the surrounding area? If you ask locals where to eat in Elounda this is where theyll send you. Crete is the largest island in Greece and one of the largest in the whole Mediterranean. All rights reserved. Elounda Gulf Villas is committed to responsible luxury. The CRETAquarium is a place of interest to explore with your little ones and make aquatic friends along the way! I love reading classic novels and I also live and breathe politics. Elounda is a perfect place to do things like snorkel, scuba dive, wakeboard, water ski, and more. Your email address will not be published. Click here to learn more. This was one of our favourites while we were in Elounda village. Expect to pay around 25-30 Euros for a half-day cruise with stops for swimming and snorkelling, including lunch. However, you really should try some of their Greek Cypriot dishes chicken gyros, moussaka or souvlaki. Thank you, Your email address will not be published. Find that perfect souvenir at one of the smaller shops, or reinvent your entire artistic aesthetic at your new favorite gallery. Ferries depart daily from Piraeus port near Athens. However, if the budget is tight it is a very cheap alternative at 9 Euros. Wear sensible shoes for walking and climbing up and down uneven steps and take water with you. In summer there may be up to 4 journeys per day. After all, the money you save when you plan a trip with us is best spent along the way. Rooms are fresh and clean with tiled floors and whitewashed walls. It's easy to do. The harbour area is particularly nice for walking and if you follow it around, youll come to the marina. Christian Basilica Poros Elounda Vacations, Cancel your hotel or vacation rental booking. We are original, independent and unsponsored. Somewhere near the church, this track ends but you can see the other coastline from here so keep walking along the trails towards it. Your hand is already on the doorknob, isnt it? Access exclusive deals, only with the Travelocity app. 2. Its a gorgeous vegetarian starter and a local delicacy.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'travelbelles_com-box-4','ezslot_2',141,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelbelles_com-box-4-0')}; In terms of main courses, you are in for a treat. We suggest booking in advance.Select from 3 top choices. 
Although its busier in July when they hold a music festival in honour of a local musician, Mikalis Papadakis. If you like walking, then head south from Elounda harbour and youll come to the saltpans on your right. During the day you can enjoy some fresh sea air on the deck or relax in one of the bars or lounges. Get your skip-the-line and guided tour ticket here. How? Right in the centre of the resort is the Blue Flag-rated Elounda Beach. However, that doesnt mean theres nothing to do here. There is another airport on the island, near Chania in the west but Heraklion is Cretes main airport and definitely the easiest to get to Elounda from. Should you require more information, please contact us at reservations@eloundavillas.com, Mesa Pigadakia,Schisma Eloundas,Elounda, Crete,72053 Greece, 2022 ELOUNDA GULF VILLAS. Images in this post are courtesy of Shutterstock.com.
Sometimes people confuse these with the sunken ruins of Oleus but theyre actually salt pans. 
However, they also have several vegetarian choices and a selection of gluten-free options as well. 6. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hidden away on the eastern coast of Crete, Elounda is a pretty fishing village which is the perfect destination for a re Crete is a destination thats bound to steal your heart. Your choices are endlessand so are the adventures to come. During the Venetian occupation of Crete, the area was commonly used to harvest salt. Thank you so muchEzgi. Id recommend hiring a car if youre staying in Elounda.
With us, memorable hospitality aligns with all the hygiene protocols for your health and safety. At Travel Belles, we believe travel has the power to transform by discovering the world we broaden our hearts, minds and consciousness. Everything in one place. Olous was an ancient Greek city from the Minoan age. Keep walking and cross the small stone bridge and youll come to the Kolokytha Peninsula. This means we earn commissions if you click links on our blog and purchase from those retailers. Youll find at least a couple of car hire agencies in the centre of Elounda who can help you out. If youve got a car then its an easy drive along the coastal road and theres plenty of parking available in Plaka just off the main road. Despite its growing popularity, Plaka still feels traditionally Greek. Its good value, casual dining at its best, and theyre justifiably well-known for their friendly service. The holiday season is complete, the winter has settled in, and the new year is upon us!
Plaka is a picturesque small village about 5km north of Elounda and its well worth making the trip to have a look around. For more on travelling Crete, see our complete travel guide to Crete, and the top things to do in Crete that you wont want to miss! 
The earlier you book, the more you save with our Book With Confidence Rates! If youre looking for a place to rent with incredible views of the sea and Spinalonga island. 3. Plaka beach is definitely one of the best places to visit while staying in Elounda simply for its stunning views alone.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'travelbelles_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_10',119,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelbelles_com-medrectangle-3-0')}; Kalydon, sometimes known as Spinalonga or Leper Island, is perfect for a historical day trip when in Elounda. Continue further south of the resort and youll come to the Sunken City of Olous. While some of the larger beaches are popular its also possible to find small stretches of almost uninhabited coastline. Located right in the heart of Elounda, the apartments are just 300m from Elounda Beach. Plaka is a tourist destination but its much smaller and quieter than Elounda. If youre driving, there are small parking spaces at intervals along the beach road.
Every couple is different, and we want to help you celebrate love in the perfect way for you! Look carefully into the water and youll see stone squares. Disclaimer:Goats On The Road is an Amazon Associate and also an affiliate for some other retailers. Explore pretty streets and admire the stunning scenery. Some reports suggest that Olous was sunk due to volcanic activity but others say its more likely that it just sunk slowly over many years. The studio has been totally renovated and has a gorgous outdoor area with gazebo, table and chairs for lounging on. Youll find Ellis Place on the main beach road in Elounda. If youre staying in Agios Nikolaos or want to combine your trip to Spinalonga with swimming and lunch, then there is a half-day excursion available locally. I could have spent my entire week just gazing out to sea this is one of the most relaxingplaces to visit in Greece. Enjoy the rides and games at Star Beach Water Park and see why people love this theme park in Hersonissos Centre. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission. I recommend a guide for sure, otherwise you wont really know what youre looking at. With so many prime locations to explore and a myriad of things to do around Elounda, Crete even an entire summer wouldnt be enough to tour all its unforgettable beaches, villages and activities to assist you, weve put together a list of the top 10 things to experience while you visit us at Elounda Gulf Villas! When you book your journey with Travelocity, youre never far from Elounda attractions. 
Youll rediscover a slower pace of life here and youre sure to be sorry when it comes time to leave. Its nature showing off in all its majesty and the One of the best things we did in Greece was renting a boat and if you want to rent a boat in Zakynthos, its one o 2022 Goats on the Road | Web Design and Development by, Elounda Crete: A Complete Guide For Travellers, Zagori Greece: A Guide To The Vikos Gorge and Pindos National Park, How To Rent a Boat in Zakynthos: The Best Companies & Prices. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); The Westin Beaver Creek Skier Resort for Non-Skier https://www.travelbelles.com/author/lauren-white/. Spinalongais just minutes off the coast of Crete, perfect to be discovered by traditional caique,yacht or sailboat. Adrakos has a popular restaurant and bar on site and they also have a large pool, so you dont need to drive every day if you dont want to. 
Situated right in the centre of Elounda, overlooking the beachfront, Cypriana offers a wide menu including breakfast, omelettes, pasta, pizza and sandwiches. At Elounda Gulf Villas, we can arrange for you tovisit traditional wineries for a tasting, and to get a feel for local wines through each individual variety as you discover the winemaking process from grape to glass. Explore the downtown area in search of museums and boutiquesor that next delicious meal. Eat in Eloundas picture perfect harbour, 4. However, over time, the water levels rose and it became an island of its own. 
A guide brings Knossos to life! All about travel preparation, planning, packing & saving. For the kids, theres a playground and organised activities are available in the summer. Where Can I Take the Best Sunset Photos in Santorini. If you dont want to drive then the little blue train also goes this way, or its a short hop by taxi. In addition, several airlines including, Lufthansa, Air France and Swiss Airlines provide scheduled flights from mainland Europe. Plaka is also a good starting point for a visit to Spinalonga Island as the boat trip is only 10 minutes from here. Here, youll find a bustling coastal town with plenty of shops, restaurants and bars. If youre looking for somewhere special with a tranquil atmosphere and great food then this is the place for you. After booking your dream vacation in Elounda, you get to daydream about all the amazing things to do in Elounda Crete. The easiest way is to hire a car and drive yourself. Of course, Crete is an island and you could choose to arrive by boat instead. Much of it is difficult to see on land, though, but this is considered to be an excellent location for snorkeling. The area stands out as a home to a handful of centuries-old monasteries some dating back to the 1500s. If youre travelling overnight youll probably want a cabin to relax in, but reclining seats are also available. Learn about the local history of Elounda when you take a trip to Alykes of Elounda. Lunch is not included but the train does make a stop at a local taverna where you can purchase food and drink. Due to the shape of the landscape, the peninsula forms a breakwater which makes Elounda Bay so tranquil. 
See our page about Elounda Village here Join in and write your own page! Elounda is located in the north of the Greek island Crete.
A garden view room starts from around $155 a night in September for half board, or book all-inclusive from $215 a night. Its about an hours drive to Elounda so if you prefer not to drive yourself you can take a taxi. The train departs from Elounda at 12 pm and returns at 6 pm. All the rooms have balconies and you can choose whether yours faces the mountains or the landscaped pool area. Kalydon is really worth a visit as when travelling, getting to know the history and culture of a destination always feels like the least you can do. Dont expect to see obvious ruins below the sea, although if you look carefully you can make out some of the ancient walls. Welcome, traveler, to Elounda. You may also like:Discovering Zorbas Beach in Greece. Its actually a terrific read so if youre looking for some holiday reading during your stay in Crete, I highly recommend it. 
You can take a four-hour trip from Elounda into the Cretan countryside. Everyone on the same page. 5. Learn its streets. One of the best dishes to try when eating in Elounda is ntakos, a Greek bruschetta topped with tomato, feta cheese and olives. Dont you just wish you were there?if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'travelbelles_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_9',125,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-travelbelles_com-large-leaderboard-2-0')}; Writing and travelling are two of my passions both of them together is my paradise. If youre planning on travelling to Greece, then consider adding this hidden gem to your itinerary. Required fields are marked *. Although Elounda is a small town, youll still find plenty of choices when it comes to dining out. (Istanbul ), Hi, My fianc and I plan to spend time in Crete for our honeymoon in August but we cannot decide which area to stay in. We suggest booking in advance.Select from 2 top choices. Great for couples as its an adults-only facility. If you happen to decide to spend the majority of your vacation in the Elounda area, you will be treated to amazing views, gorgeous beaches, and plenty of things to do. 
Visit the picturesque Agios NikolaosA seaside town thats worth exploring, Agios Nikolaos is just a 15-minute drive from Elounda Gulf Villas and has a life of its own! This takes around 75 minutes. If you dont have a car then its a fabulous way to get out and about and see more of the stunning Cretan landscape. Youll find plenty of restaurants to choose from along the harbour and Plakas fish restaurants are particularly popular. 
If you want to fly into Crete then the most convenient airport is Heraklion which is located on the north coast of the island. Comments Off on Top Things to Do When Visiting Elounda on Crete. Learn how to make money on the road, so you can travel forever. Having packed your suitcase, ready to be filled with memories upon your return, where do you even start discovering the fascinating destination you have chosen? Update, sadly, this place has now closed. They fit right in with the fishing village heritage and culture and arent in one bit overstated or obviously touristy. Simply click here to return to. Lounging by your priv pool in view of the Aegean Sea, enjoyingin-villa mealsprepared by your private chef or indulging in a massage below the shade of olive trees All these wonderful experiences are just part of the pampering in store for you here at Elounda Gulf Villas! Its a short 10-minute crossing from Plaka and costs 8 Euros per person. Wander the beautiful beaches in this quaint area. Maria & Vangelis - Unique Handmade Creations, A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences, Choose from the best hotels and activities. Your journey has landed you here, and new adventures are calling your name. Find out more about this highly rated experience here. For tourists today, it makes for an interesting place to visit for a gentle coastal walk outside the main resort. Tripadvisor Certificate Travellers' Choice (2020), Tripadvisor Certificate of excellence (2018), Tripadvisor Certificate of excellence (2017), Tripadvisor Certificate of excellence (2016), Tripadvisor Certificate of excellence (2015), Tripadvisor Certificate of excellence (2014), Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award (2012), Top 10 things to do in Elounda this summer.
If youre keen on finding the ruins below the water, take your snorkel gear. The journey takes between 5 and 8 hours and nothing quite beats waking up in the morning as you sail into a new port. Many of the buildings have already been restored but more work is currently underway. Why spend hours ruminating over what to do in Elounda? Taste Crete through its winesOne of the most quintessential things to do in Elounda and in all of Crete, is to taste the famed Cretan wines. 
For those without transport, there is a small tourist train which makes the trip several times a day and there is a public bus although it only runs a few times a day. Indulge yourself by booking a junior suite which has its own private pool. Most restaurants have menu boards outside the restaurant, so take a wander along the streets near the harbour and centre of town and see what appeals most. Expect to pay from around $80 a night. Succulent slow-cooked lamb and skewered chicken are popular in most of the restaurants along the harbour and they pass the taste test with flying colours. Relaxation is what a holiday is all about, so Elounda is definitely chilled enough all day round for that. A quick walk into Plaka will being you to lots of authentic tavernas. Do you know if there will be enough open in and around Elounda or will it be mostly closed at this time? We would like to stay in Blue Palace Resort & Spa but we are not sure if there are places where we can go outside of the resort. Now, the island is a top residence for tourists, who love exploring the pebbled beaches and old fortress that once housed Greeces lepers. Find out more about us Goats and what we're all about. Enjoy!You can follow me on Twitter and Instagram: @lxurenwhite. 
While in Elounda, Crete you wont want to miss these activities! There are petite cafes all around the main square which are perfect for a final drop-off point in the evening after a walk along the harbour following your meal.
Tourists in their thousands visit Kalydon each year and do so usually by boat from Elounda, Plaka orAgios Nikolaos. Find Ellis Place on google maps. If youre looking for a hotel within a few hundred metres of Elounda beach and which gets consistently great reviews then consider the Elounda Krini Hotel. by Ezgi Simply take in the luxuriant joys of your Villa or Suite! If you want to be within walking distance of stunning beaches, fabulous tavernas, restaurants and bars then choose to stay in an Elounda hotel within the main village area.