The ‘Elegance of Crete‘ tour offers a captivating exploration of some of the island’s most picturesque locales. Visitors begin their journey in the enchanting town of Elounda, known for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches. From there, they’ll embark on a boat trip to the historic island of Spinalonga, where the remnants of a Venetian fortress and a former leper colony await. The tour culminates in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where guests can wander around the mythical lake and soak in the breathtaking scenery. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the elegance and diversity of Crete.
Key Points
- The 7-hour ‘Elegance of Crete’ tour offers hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and visits to Elounda, Spinalonga, and Agios Nikolaos.
- Elounda is known for its luxury resorts, private beaches, and high-end amenities, providing an exclusive and sophisticated experience.
- The tour includes a boat trip to Spinalonga, a historical island with a Venetian fortress and former leper colony, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Agios Nikolaos is a charming seaside town with a picturesque lake surrounded by myths and WWII remnants, allowing for leisurely exploration.
- The tour price of £386.81 per group (up to 3 participants) includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and an English-speaking driver, with additional costs for Spinalonga entrance and boat ticket.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Elegance of Crete tour provides an opportunity to explore the picturesque destinations of Elounda, Spinalonga, and Agios Nikolaos.
Priced at £386.81 per group (up to 3 participants), the 7-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment, allowing for a hassle-free booking experience.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned luxury transportation, an English-speaking driver, and complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi and mineral water.
While the tour price covers most expenses, there are additional costs for the Spinalonga entrance fee and boat ticket, as well as gratuities for the tour guide upon request.
Itinerary Highlights
Kicking off the Elegance of Crete tour, guests get picked up from their hotel around 9:00 am before heading out to explore the day’s destinations.
The first stop is the sophisticated resort town of Elounda, known for its private beaches and luxurious five-star hotels.
Next, visitors embark on a boat trip to the historical island of Spinalonga, which served as a Venetian fortress and later a leper colony.
After exploring Spinalonga, the tour continues to the picturesque seaside resort of Agios Nikolaos, where guests can enjoy free time to wander around the famous lake surrounded by myths and legends.
Agios Nikolaos Lake Legends
Why is the Agios Nikolaos lake considered bottomless and associated with the Greek goddesses Athena and Artemis?
According to local legends, the lake is believed to be connected to the Santorini volcano through an underground passage, adding to the mystique surrounding this striking body of water. The lake’s depth has long been a source of fascination, with some believing it’s truly bottomless.
Plus, the lake’s connection to the goddesses Athena and Artemis further contributes to its mythological significance.
During World War II, the German army even discarded cannons and armored vehicles into the lake, leaving behind a unique historical legacy.
The lake’s red cliffs and lush surrounding trees create a breathtaking natural landscape.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in air-conditioned luxury vehicles with an excellent English-speaking driver. Plus, Wi-Fi, child seats upon request, and natural mineral water are provided to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience. The inclusions and amenities are designed to enhance the tour and make it as seamless as possible for the participants.
| Inclusions | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Wi-Fi |
| Air-conditioned luxury vehicles | Child seats (upon request) |
| English-speaking driver | Natural mineral water |
All legal taxes are included in the tour price, providing a hassle-free and transparent experience for your.
Additional Costs
Along With the included items, there are some additional costs associated with the Elegance of Crete tour.
Visitors will need to pay the €8.00 entrance fee to access the historical island of Spinalonga, as well as the €12.00 round-trip boat ticket to reach the site. While gratuities for the excellent English-speaking driver aren’t included, they’re optional and can be provided at the discretion of your.
Plus, a tour guide is available upon request, though their services come at an additional cost and are subject to availability.
The additional costs for the Elegance of Crete tour can be summarized as:
- Spinalonga entrance fee: €8.00
- Spinalonga boat ticket (round trip): €12.00
- Gratuities for driver (optional)
- Tour guide (upon request and availability)
Elounda: Sophisticated Resorts
After covering the additional costs associated with the tour, the first stop on the Elegance of Crete itinerary is Elounda, a destination renowned for its sophisticated resorts, private beaches, and high concentration of five-star hotels.
Elounda has long been a haven for the rich and famous, offering visitors a taste of luxury and exclusivity. The town’s upscale hotels feature world-class amenities, from private pools and spas to gourmet dining experiences.
Guests can enjoy the tranquility of Elounda’s pristine beaches, where they can soak up the sun and take in the stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or a lavish vacation, Elounda is the perfect destination on the Elegance of Crete tour.
Spinalonga: Leper Colony
Next on the Elegance of Crete tour is a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, a historical site that once served as a fort during the Venetian occupation and later as a leper colony.
Visitors can explore the remnants of this fascinating place, which include:
- The old Venetian fortress walls and watchtowers that guarded the island throughout its tumultuous history.
- The abandoned homes and buildings where lepers were once confined, providing a poignant glimpse into their isolated existence.
- The small church where residents worshipped, a testament to their resilience in the face of adversity.
- The stunning natural beauty of the island, with its rugged cliffs and azure waters serving as a backdrop to this captivating historical site.
Agios Nikolaos: Cosmopolitan Seaside
The tour then takes visitors to the cosmopolitan seaside resort of Agios Nikolaos, where they can explore the famous Lake surrounded by legends and myths. This charming town is known for its striking natural beauty, with red cliffs and trees lining the shores. The lake itself is believed to be connected to the Santorini volcano through an underground passage, and during WWII, the German army reportedly discarded cannons and armored vehicles into its depths.
| Agios Nikolaos Lake Legends | |
|---|---|
| Believed to be bottomless | Athena and Artemis associated with the lake |
| Connected to Santorini volcano | WWII history: German army discarded weapons |
| Striking natural beauty | Red cliffs and trees surround the lake |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, customers can often customize tours to visit additional sites. The tour operator may be able to accommodate requests for extra stops, depending on time and logistical constraints. It’s best to inquire about customization options when booking the tour.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour is generally accessible for individuals with disabilities. The vehicles are equipped with accommodations, and the tour provider offers assistance upon request. However, some sites may have limited accessibility, so it’s best to discuss specific needs with the tour operator.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for all ages, though parents should supervise young children. The tour provider can accommodate special needs if requested in advance.
What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Casual, light attire is recommended to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience during the tour.
Can the Tour Be Extended or Shortened Based on My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be extended or shortened based on your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit your needs. Just let them know your requirements, and they’ll accommodate your request.
Recap
The ‘Elegance of Crete‘ tour offers an enriching experience exploring Crete’s stunning locales.
Travelers can enjoy the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty, from the luxurious resorts of Elounda to the captivating Spinalonga Island and the picturesque Agios Nikolaos.
With a mix of guided activities and free time, this tour provides an ideal way to discover the elegance and charm of Crete.
