Elounda Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do, where to eat and stay, and tips for visiting Elounda, Crete. Plan your trip now with this comprehensive travel guide!


Introduction to Elounda

Nestled in the Lasithi region of Crete, Elounda is a picturesque coastal village that has everything you need for a relaxing and adventurous vacation. From stunning beaches and crystalline waters to rich cultural and historical landmarks, this charming Greek paradise offers a little something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Elounda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Spinalonga Island: Anchored in the bay of Elounda, this Venetian fortress-turned-leper colony-turned-popular tourism site is one of the most visited places in Crete. Explore the eerie ruins, take a guided tour to learn about the history of the island, or enjoy a scenic boat ride through the bay.
  • Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos: Commemorating the rich heritage of the ancient Greeks, the museum houses an impressive collection of vases, statues, and artifacts from the Minoan and Roman periods.
  • Ancient City of Olous: Just a short drive away from Elounda lies the ancient city of Olous, which dates back to the 4th century BC. Embark on a journey through time as you walk through the ruins of the city’s main aqueducts, baths, and houses.

Natural Attractions of Elounda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kolokitha Beach: A hidden gem in Elounda, this secluded beach has crystal-clear waters, gorgeous natural surroundings, and a peaceful atmosphere making it the perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Kritsa Gorge: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or nature lover, you won’t want to miss the chance to hike through the stunning Kritsa Gorge. Take in the breathtaking views of the valley and climb the rock formations for some added adventure.
  • Spinalonga Peninsula: Located opposite the Spinalonga Island, the Spinalonga Peninsula boasts scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain of the island. Take a stroll and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding sea and hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elounda

Hiking and biking are amazing ways to explore the beauty of Elounda. Some of the best routes include:

  • The Elounda to Plaka Trail: A scenic 10 km long walking trail that offers stunning views of the countryside.
  • The Elounda to Spinalonga Trail: A 5 km easily manageable trail with a great view of the nearby island and sea.
  • The Kritsa Gorge Hiking Trail: A more demanding trail but rewarding hike that gives you a glimpse of beautiful waterfalls, rock formations and all types of wildlife along the way.

Best Things to Do in Elounda: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast or a lover of scenic views, there’s something for everyone in Elounda. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Water Sports: From paddleboarding and snorkeling to parasailing and jet skiing, there’s no end to the water sports that you can enjoy in Elounda.
  • Boat Tours: Take a leisurely boat tour around the picturesque coastline of Elounda to explore nearby islets, snorkel in secluded coves, and even go fishing with the locals.
  • Olive Oil and Wine Tastings: Indulge your taste buds in the finest olive oil and wine that Elounda has to offer. Many local establishments offer olive oil and wine tastings as a way to promote their products and businesses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elounda

Day 1 - Arrival and Check-In Day 2 - Visit the Spinalonga Island Day 3 - Relax at the Kolokitha Beach Day 4 - Take a Boat Tour Day 5 - Visit the Kritsa Gorge Day 6 - Participate in Water Sports or Hiking Day 7 - Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Elounda

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dakos: An appetizer made with Cretan barley rusks, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, and herbs.
  • Sfakia Pita: A delicious traditional pie that comes stuffed with cheese, herbs, and honey.
  • Lamb with Artichokes: A popular dish that includes tender, slow-cooked lamb meat accompanied by the flavors of artichokes and lemon.

Local Beverages

  • Raki: A ubiquitous Cretan drink and symbol of hospitality, made from the skins and pulp leftover from wine-making and traditionally served after meals.
  • Cretan Wine: Produced from grape varieties like the ancient Vidiano and Assyrtiko, these wines pair well with the nearby seafood and dishes cuisines.

Where to Stay in Elounda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury villas to more affordable guesthouses, Elounda offers a wide range of accommodations. Some highly-rated options include:

  • Domes of Elounda: The five-star Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection, offers completely private pools and gardens with stunning sea views.
  • Elounda Bay Palace: A five-star luxury resort located on the beachfront of Mirabello Bay, the Elounda Bay Palace is perfect for those seeking a luxury vacation.
  • Ostria Apartments: Located just 100 meters from the beach, the Ostria Apartments offer reasonably priced and well-equipped rooms.

What to Buy in Elounda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is one of the main agricultural products of Crete, with Elounda hosting many high-end olive oil boutiques.
  • Handmade Cretan Knives: For those interested in traditional Cretan crafts, handmade knives are a unique and valuable souvenir to bring home.
  • Cretan Textiles: From woven fabrics and rugs to traditional embroidery, the textiles of Crete are both fascinating and representative of the local culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Elounda

As in most parts of Greece, the concept of philoxenia, or hospitality towards strangers, is deeply ingrained in the local culture of Elounda. Visitors are often greeted as guests, and the locals take pleasure in sharing their food, traditions, and culture with them. As a visitor, it’s customary to be polite and respectful to the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Elounda

The best time to visit Elounda is between May to October, when the weather is warm and dry and the water temperature is perfect for swimming. The peak tourist season is from June to August, so if you’re planning a trip during these months, be sure to book your accommodations and activities well in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elounda

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions, including dress codes for religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and participate in traditional events and activities.
  • Take advantage of the natural beauty of Elounda and explore its many scenic trails and beaches.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the local environment as it is a small community
  • Don’t drink to excess or engage in any unruly behavior that may offend the local community or fellow travelers.
  • Don’t photograph locals without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elounda

Elounda is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. However, it’s always wise to keep your valuables secure when visiting crowded tourist areas and nighttime streets. Pickpocketing can occur in busy restaurants or tourist spots, so be mindful of your surroundings.

Health in Elounda

The health care system in Elounda and the broader Crete region is generally good. Travelers should have basic health insurance coverage before visiting the island, and if necessary, consult with their travel health provider to acquire necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Elounda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Elounda

The nearest major international airports to Elounda are Heraklion International Airport (HER) and Sitia Public Airport (JSH), both of which offer scheduled flights year round from a number of European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Elounda

Bus transportation is available to and from Elounda and the surrounding areas, with scheduled services running throughout the day. Buses generally operate from the central stations of Lasithi, Heraklion, and Sitia.

Other Options

Another popular option for reaching Elounda is via taxi, with organized tours and minivan/shuttle services also offered by local travel providers.

How to Get Around Elounda

Many visitors choose to explore the region of Lasithi, including Elounda, by rental car or motorbike to visit the main sites and beyond. Local transportation and taxi services also are available for those seeking to travel within the immediate area.

Where to Go Next from Elounda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Agios Nikolaos: Just 11 km away from Elounda, this charming seaside town boasts plenty of popular beaches, lively entertainment, historical sites, and shops.
  • Knossos: For a more extended stay in Crete, consider visiting the archaeological site of Knossos – a mere 80 km from Elounda – the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island.
  • Spinalonga Peninsula: A highly recommended day trip from Elounda, the Spinalonga Peninsula is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece.

Conclusion

Elounda has something for everyone, from its stunning beaches and natural scenery to its rich cultural heritage and history and delicious cuisine. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to explore this beautiful Greek paradise to the fullest while blending in well with the local customs and traditions. Plan your trip now and experience the wonders of Elounda for yourself.

Spinalonga Fort Spinalonga Fort