Spinalonga,Elounda,Ag.Nikolaos, Olive Factory From Heraklion

Discover the captivating history and natural beauty of Crete’s east coast on this day trip from Heraklion. Explore the poignant ruins of Spinalonga, once a leper colony, and stroll through the charming streets of Agios Nikolaos. Soak in the stunning views of Elounda Bay before indulging in a delightful olive oil tasting. This itinerary offers a well-rounded experience that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories. What’s in store for the rest of your journey?

Key Points

• A tour from Heraklion that visits the historical island of Spinalonga, the picturesque town of Elounda, the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, and an olive factory.
• The tour lasts 11 hours and costs $32.77 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include exploring Spinalonga’s Venetian ruins, swimming in Elounda Bay, and experiencing a Cretan olive oil tasting.
• The tour provides insight into Crete’s complex history, including the island’s use as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957.
• Customer reviews are mixed, with some finding the tour enjoyable but lengthy, and one report of a cancelled trip after payment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Although the tour price starts from $32.77 per person, the duration is a lengthy 11 hours.

However, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve your spot without an upfront payment.

The tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation, pickup and drop-off, and a guide.

The tour provides air-conditioned bus transportation, pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable guide.

Admission to Spinalonga is €8, while the boat ride and food are additional costs.

Based on the limited customer feedback, the tour seems to have mixed experiences, with one reviewer reporting a cancelled trip after payment.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour highlights include exploring Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe that was established in 1903 and operational until 1957. Visitors can also visit the picturesque village of Elounda and swim in the crystal clear waters of Elounda Bay. The tour also includes a stop in Agios Nikolaos, known for its harbor and tree-lined streets perfect for shopping. Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to an olive factory in Malia for a Cretan olive oil tasting.

| Highlight | Location | Description |

| — | — | — |

| Spinalonga | Island | Fortified Venetian ruins, including a market street, hospital, and houses for lepers |

| Elounda | Village | Swim in the bay’s crystal clear waters |

| Agios Nikolaos | Town | Explore the harbor and tree-lined streets for shopping |

Historical Significance

Spinalonga, the island fortress, was fortified by the Venetians in 1579.

The ruins on the island include a well-preserved market street, hospital, and houses for lepers.

Spinalonga served as a leper colony from 1903 until 1957, making it the last leper colony in Europe.

The island’s historical significance lies in its role as a stronghold and its somber past as a place of isolation and suffering for those afflicted with leprosy.

Today, the ruins and remnants of this tragic chapter in history provide a somber yet fascinating glimpse into Crete’s complex past.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation, with pickup and drop-off from the hotel, harbor, or designated meeting points.

A knowledgeable guide is included throughout the tour. Admission to the historic Spinalonga Island is €8 per person.

Additional costs include food, such as gyros-souvlaki and water, as well as a boat ride to Spinalonga for €15.

The tour offers a comprehensive experience, covering key highlights like the former leper colony, picturesque Elounda village, the quaint town of Agios Nikolaos, and an olive oil tasting at a local factory.

Clients can expect a full-day excursion exploring Crete’s culture and history.

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Customer Feedback

How did customers rate this tour overall? Reviews were mixed, with an overall rating of 2.7 out of 5 stars from 3 reviews. Some found the tour enjoyable but lengthy due to multiple pickups, while others had their trip cancelled after payment. Here is a breakdown of the customer feedback:

| Customer | Nationality | Rating |

|———-|————-|——–|

| Paula | USA | N/A |

| Wendy | UK | Enjoyable but lengthy |

| Anonymous| Germany | Unspecified |

The varied experiences suggest this tour may not be suitable for all travelers, highlighting the importance of carefully researching tours before booking.

Spinalonga: The Last Leper Colony in Europe

Established in 1903, Spinalonga served as the last leper colony in Europe until its closure in 1957.

This fortified island held a dark history, yet its legacy endures:

• Venetian-built walls and structures stand as a somber reminder of the island’s past.

• Former patients’ homes, hospital, and market street evoke a palpable sense of lives disrupted.

• Isolation and suffering marked the experiences of those banished to this desolate place.

• Families were torn apart, dignity stripped, and hope diminished in this microcosm of tragedy.

• Yet, Spinalonga’s story exemplifies the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Elounda Village and Elounda Bay

Nestled along the northern coast of Crete, Elounda village beckons visitors with its picturesque harbor and crystal-clear waters of Elounda Bay.

A popular resort town, Elounda offers a chance to swim in the tranquil bay, explore the charming streets lined with shops and tavernas, and admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Many travelers also visit the nearby island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with well-preserved Venetian ruins.

After exploring the historical site, travelers can return to Elounda to enjoy the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere and sample the local Cretan cuisine.

Agios Nikolaos and the Olive Factory

After exploring the tranquil waters of Elounda Bay, the tour continues its journey to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos. Nestled around a picturesque harbor, this coastal town captivates visitors with its tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and vibrant atmosphere.

• Discover the mesmerizing Lake Voulismeni, a natural wonder likely formed by an earthquake.

• Stroll along the waterfront and browse the tempting displays of local artisanal crafts and delicacies.

• Savor the aroma of freshly brewed Greek coffee as you people-watch from a cozy café.

• Explore the bustling harbor, where fishing boats and yachts mingle, creating a lively maritime scene.

• The tour concludes with a visit to an olive factory in Malia, where visitors can indulge in a tasting of Crete’s renowned olive oil.

Things To Know

What Is the Group Size for the Tour?

The tour group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. The overview focuses on details like tour price, duration, itinerary, and inclusions, but doesn’t mention the specific number of participants in the group.

Do We Have Free Time to Explore on Our Own?

The tour provides free time to explore on your own at several stops, allowing you to wander at your own pace and discover the sights that interest you most. The guide will provide recommendations for making the most of your independent exploration.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any discounts for children or seniors. Prices are listed as a flat rate per person, so there may not be any reduced pricing options available.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that no outside food or beverages are provided, and there may be designated stops for purchasing refreshments along the way.

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Travelers can expect guided commentary throughout the excursion in the language of their choice. This ensures all participants can fully engage with and understand the historical and cultural highlights of the tour.

Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Heraklion offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and local culture. Visitors can explore the poignant past of Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, before seeing the stunning scenery of Elounda and the charming streets of Agios Nikolaos. The highlight is a delightful olive oil tasting at a local factory, providing a true taste of Crete’s renowned culinary heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: