Crete, the captivating Greek island, beckons travelers to explore its rich history and stunning landscapes. One tour that promises an unforgettable experience is "Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda with BBQ Lunch." From the haunting past of Spinalonga Island to the charming harbor of Agios Nikolaos, this excursion offers a seamless blend of culture and natural beauty. Get ready to dive into Crete’s captivating stories and savor the flavors of its renowned cuisine.
Key Points
- This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s cultural and historical landmarks, including Spinalonga Island, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda.
- Visitors can enjoy a guided tour, transportation by bus and boat, and a BBQ lunch with pork steak, Greek salad, and beverages.
- The tour features a visit to the former leper colony of Spinalonga, which has a rich history dating back to ancient times.
- Guests can take a refreshing swim in the azure waters of Kolokytha Bay and explore the picturesque harbor of Agios Nikolaos.
- The tour caters to various language preferences, including English, German, Russian, Polish, and French.
Tour Overview
This tour, titled "Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda with BBQ Lunch," provides an opportunity to explore some of Crete’s most captivating destinations.
Priced from $27.31 per person, it offers a 4- to 12-hour adventure across Crete, with guided tours and transportation by bus and boat.
A 4- to 12-hour adventure across Crete, with guided tours and transportation by bus and boat, priced from $27.31 per person.
Language options include English, German, Russian, Polish, and French.
The tour features a visit to the historic Spinalonga Island, a swim and BBQ lunch at Kolokytha Bay, and free time in the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda.
Complimentary liability insurance and entry fees are included, with a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund.
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Spinalonga Island: A Captivating History
Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony, boasts a captivating history as a natural barrier for the ancient city of Olous, a refuge for Saracen pirates, a Venetian fortress, and a Turkish settlement. The island’s strategic location and fortifications played a crucial role throughout its tumultuous past.
| Era | Significance |
| — | — |
| Ancient | Defended the city of Olous |
| Medieval | Sheltered Saracen pirates |
| Venetian | Served as a heavily fortified outpost |
| Ottoman | Functioned as a military garrison and leper colony |
This multifaceted history has endowed Spinalonga with a unique and compelling narrative, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Crete.
Swimming and BBQ Lunch at Kolokytha Bay
After exploring the captivating history of Spinalonga Island, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Kolokytha Bay.
Here, they can enjoy a refreshing swim in the azure waters and indulge in a delectable BBQ lunch. The menu features a succulent pork steak, a vibrant Greek salad, fresh bread, and creamy feta cheese, complemented by a glass of wine or lemonade.
Surrounded by the breathtaking coastal scenery, guests can savor the flavors of Crete while soaking up the sun and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.
This leisurely lunch break is the perfect way to rejuvenate before continuing the tour.
Exploring Agios Nikolaos
From Kolokytha Bay, the tour travels to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where guests can enjoy free time for shopping and food tasting.
Known for its picturesque harbor, Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful blend of local culture and relaxation:
Agios Nikolaos, known for its picturesque harbor, offers a delightful blend of local culture and relaxation.
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Explore the shops and boutiques lining the harbor, offering an array of Cretan handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
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Visit Lake Voulismeni, a scenic inland lake surrounded by cafes and restaurants, providing opportunities to savor traditional Greek cuisine.
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Stroll along the waterfront, taking in the serene atmosphere and charming architecture that define this Cretan gem.
Scenic Coastal Views in Elounda
As the tour departs Agios Nikolaos, it heads towards the seaside town of Elounda, where visitors are treated to scenic coastal views and opportunities for relaxing strolls.
The picturesque harbor is lined with charming restaurants and cafes, inviting travelers to soak in the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.
Along the waterfront promenade, guests can admire the striking vistas of the Mirabello Bay and the distant mountains.
Elounda’s tranquil ambiance provides a perfect contrast to the lively bustle of Agios Nikolaos, allowing visitors to unwind and embrace the beauty of Crete’s northeastern shores.
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Transportation Details
The tour employs a combination of bus and boat transportation to facilitate the journey.
The air-conditioned bus takes guests on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Elounda and a 30-minute journey to Agios Nikolaos.
The 20-minute boat cruise provides access to both Kolokytha Bay and the historic Spinalonga Island.
The tour offers:
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Bus transportation for the land-based portions of the itinerary
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Boat transportation for the island and coastal activities
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Convenient drop-off locations at 128 popular hotels and resorts in the area
Inclusives and What’s Covered
The tour package includes a range of amenities that enhance the overall experience. Guests can enjoy a delectable BBQ lunch with a glass of wine or lemonade. Transportation is provided via air-conditioned buses and boat cruises, ensuring a comfortable journey. The knowledgeable tour guide leads the way, offering insights in multiple languages. Liability insurance by Generali is also included, providing peace of mind. To fully enjoy the tour, visitors are advised to bring essential items such as sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and swimwear.
| What’s Included | Details |
| — | — |
| Lunch | BBQ with pork steak, Greek salad, bread, feta, and fruit |
| Beverages | 1 glass of wine or lemonade |
| Transportation | Air-conditioned bus and boat cruise |
| Tour Guide | English, with availability in other languages |
| Insurance | Liability insurance by Generali |
| Entry Fees | Included for Spinalonga |
Important Information and Accessibility
Travelers embarking on this tour should come prepared with essential items like sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, sun hats, towels, and comfortable clothing.
Pets aren’t allowed on the tour, so guests will need to make arrangements for their furry friends.
While the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, those with limited mobility can still enjoy the experience with some assistance.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 170 reviews, with the guide receiving a perfect 5 out of 5 rating, ensuring a memorable and informative experience.
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Sunglasses
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Sunscreen
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Cash
Things To Know
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The group size for this tour is not specified. However, it’s common for these types of tours to accommodate small to medium-sized groups, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience. The exact group size may vary.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, bringing your own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The package includes a BBQ lunch with one glass of wine or lemonade, so outside food and beverages are not permitted.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t seem to offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is a fixed rate of $27.31 per person, regardless of age. There’s no mention of special pricing for certain age groups.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
Yes, you can extend the duration of the tour. The tour provider offers flexible options, allowing you to customize the length of your experience to suit your preferences and schedule.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Towels and Beach Gear?
According to the tour details, you’ll need to bring your own towel and beach gear. The tour doesn’t provide these items, so it’s recommended to pack sunscreen, a sun hat, and comfortable clothes for the day’s activities.
Sum Up
This captivating tour offers a blend of history, relaxation, and culinary delights. Explore the intriguing past of Spinalonga Island, indulge in a BBQ lunch by the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha Bay, and discover the charming harbors of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. With comfortable transportation and stunning coastal views, this experience showcases the allure of Crete’s rich culture and natural beauty.
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