Holidays in Elounda Crete, an established favourite with exceptionally beautiful surroundings, Elounda is a holiday resort on the east coast of Crete, 6 miles north of Aghios Nikolaos. Elounda lies on a bay facing the Sinalonga Peninsula, which is connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. The small island of Spinalonga sits in the entrance of the bay and has a Venetian fortress. Elounda is really a combination of several villages which have effectively merged. The whole area is a particularly scenic setting for an Elounda holiday and although this former fishing village has grown to become an established favourite Crete holiday destination, it still possesses a certain relaxed charm and an attractive mix of facilities, old and modern areas, and a vibrant square and busy appealing harbour.
Renowned for its impressive range of water sports and a large man-made sandy beach,allowing visitors to top up their tan on dry land.
Location
The popular holiday resort of Elounda Crete lies at a distance of about 7 km from Aghios Nikolaos. It was a small fishing village before the tourists discovered it. Large luxury hotel chains were built and was turned into a top holiday destination in Crete. It consists of 5 villages Sxisma being the only one located by the sea. There is a great number of bars, discos, taverns and restaurants. The beach is sandy, considered from the best in Crete and offers water sport facilities. Also famous is the small island of Spinalonga in the entrance of Elounda harbour. A Venetian fortress built in 1579. There is a boat connection to Spinalonga about every half an hour.
Beaches
There’s a man-made sandy beach in Elounda, perfect for serious sunbathing. The coves which dot the rocky coastline are great for snorkelling. You can also uncover hidden talents with the many water sports on offer.
Dining Out
The resort of Elounda Crete has a variety of local-style tavernas to choose from which serve traditional cuisine, and several other restaurants in the town offering variations of international and continental foods.
Shopping
The local shops are good for food and holiday essentials, as well as plenty of craft and jewellery shops. The larger hotels also contain one or two boutiques.
Out & About in Elounda
The sunken city of Olous and the remains of a Byzantine basilica are both nearby and worth a visit. There are also numerous boat trips available to Spinalonga Island and a regular bus service to the fishing village of Plaka where you can relax in one of the many traditional fish tavernas.
Transfer time to Elounda from Heraklion airport is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.
