Best things to do in Elounda

Spinalonga (Kalydon) sits as a rocky islet floating in the blue waters of the Gulf of Elounda. The region's 16th century Venetian rulers carved this rock out of Crete's coastline and then built a fortress on it to protect the gulf from hostile ships. The old fortress, apparently as impregnable to the passage of time as it once was to would-be invaders, still dominates the islet and attracts nearly 30,000 annual visitors. Split your time on the little island between the Venetian fort and one of several beaches, which are lapped by shallow, calm waters. There are no tourist facilities here, so bring your own food and water.

Spinalonga (Greek: Σπιναλόγκα) is an island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Plaka. The island is further assigned to the area of Kalydon.

It is near the Spinalonga peninsula ("large Spinalonga") – which often causes confusion as the same name is used for both.

During Venetian rule, salt was harvested from salt pans around the island. The island has also been used as a leper colony. Spinalonga has appeared in novels, television series, and a short film.

Complete your vacation reading list with an item from Eklektos Bookshop. Choose between old and new books, including those in various languages, such as English or Russian. The staff can also provide valuable information on what to see or where to eat in town. Don't miss out on having a cup of tea with the friendly, hospitable owner.

Welcome To Our Cretan Olive Oil Farm

You will experience the way we were producing traditional Cretan products such as olive oil, wine, raki, pottery and traditional textiles in a unique environment.

You can be a part of the Traditional Product Produce Revival.

Ride jet skis, banana boats, and wakeboards to experience the clear waters of Vai Beach, surrounded by golden sand and the largest natural palm forest in Europe. Climb the steps at the side of the beach to the viewing platforms, which offer a panoramic view of the water and the palm forest of Vai. Beach umbrellas and sun loungers are available for rent, and there are many beachside restaurants and cafes here. Toilets and showers are available for a fee, as is parking.

Explore Malia Palace Archaeological Site to see what's left of the palace built here several thousand years ago. The palace was constructed in 1900 BCE but was destroyed 200 hundred years later. The ruins you'll see are from the rebuilt palace, which replaced the former in 1700 BC. Begin at the small museum, where you will see a model of the palace as it would have looked originally. At the north end of the palace, visit the necropolis where the famous gold bee pendant--now on display in a museum in Heraklion--was uncovered. Learn about the Minoans relationship with their Gods by examining the round table in the central court, where they placed seeds as offerings to the deities.

Souvenirs with a story from Maria & Vangelis - Unique Handmade Creations include exquisite jewelry pieces that work well as gifts for private occasions (anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, etc). You can ask to have any adjustments made to items you buy, or even order an individual piece that suits your taste. You can browse the collection and purchase items online, but nothing beats the experience of actually walking into the store and choosing something special on the spot.