Private Group tour to Spinaliga

Experience overview

After meeting your professional guide on the pier, you will drive to beautiful Elounda Bay, approximately 30 minutes away. Upon arrival in the resort area of Elounda, you will board your motorized boat for a trip to Spinaloga, a small rocky island that has protected the harbor of ancient Olous and Elounda Bay since antiquity. It once was home to the most powerful fortresses of the Venetians, with walls built in 1579 which can still be seen today. After the Turkish conquest of Crete, Spinaloga was a refuge for many Christians who fled there to escape. From 1912 to 1958, the island served as a sanatorium for the lepers of Crete. Today, the island is not inhabited and has become a tourist destination for guests wishing to see the remains of buildings, as well as the well-preserved Venetian walls. A climb to the top will reward you with panoramic views back towards the coast. During your one-hour tour of the island, your guide will tell you more about its history.You will then reboard your boat and travel to a nearby cove where, after dropping anchor, you will enjoy a casual BBQ lunch on the deck, complete with Greek salad, tzatziki, grilled meat and other wonderful Greek specialties including Greek wine. You will also have time for swimming or just enjoying the beautiful Aegean Sea. Returning to land, you will then travel back to Agios Nikolas, where your tour ends.Please Note: This tour offers customized departure times between 7:30 AM and 7:00 PM. If your preferred departure time is not listed, please contact us to place your request.