Spinalonga Beach

Imagine swimming in crystal-clear waters with a 16th-century fortress as your backdrop.

Sounds like a movie set, right?

Well, that’s exactly what you get at Spinalonga Beach!

Located on the southwest side of the famous Insel Spinalonga, this beach is a hidden treasure that many visitors overlook.

While everyone’s busy exploring the island’s rich history, I found myself drawn to its unexpected coastal charm.

The moment I stepped off the ferry, I could feel the weight of history around me.

Spinalonga isn’t just any island – it’s a place that’s seen Venetians, Ottomans, and even served as a leper colony until the mid-20th century.

But amidst all this history, there’s a slice of paradise waiting to be discovered.

As I wandered through the island, I stumbled upon this small, sandy beach.

Let me tell you, it was like finding an oasis in a desert of stone walls and ancient structures.

The contrast between the old fortress and the inviting blue waters was simply stunning.

What really caught my eye were the Tamariskenbäume lining the beach.

They provided perfect natural shade – a godsend on a hot Cretan day.

I spent hours just relaxing under these trees, alternating between reading my book and taking refreshing dips in the sea.

The water here is incredibly clear and usually calm. It’s deep too, so it’s perfect for those who love a good swim.

As I floated on my back, I couldn’t help but marvel at the view – the imposing fortress walls on one side and the beautiful Kolokitha peninsula on the other.

Now, a word of caution – as tempting as it might be to swim to the opposite shore, it’s not a good idea.

The currents can be strong, and there’s quite a bit of boat traffic.

But trust me, you won’t feel the need to leave this little patch of paradise.

This beach is ideal for history buffs who want to combine their love for the past with some beach relaxation.

It’s also perfect for photographers – the juxtaposition of the old fortress and the serene beach makes for some incredible shots.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Spinalonga, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit along with your camera.

This little beach might just be the unexpected highlight of your visit!

Spinalonga Beach Key Information

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Spinalonga Beach Profile

Spinalonga Beach is a small but charming stretch of coastline on the southwest part of Spinalonga Island.

It’s a mix of sand and some rocks, giving it a natural, unspoiled feel.

Die water here is a beautiful blue and usually calm, making it perfect for swimming.

It’s also quite deep, so it’s great for those who enjoy a proper swim rather than just paddling.

One of the beach’s standout features is the line of tamarisk trees providing natural shade.

These trees not only offer relief from the sun but also add to the beach’s picturesque quality.

The beach’s small size and relative obscurity mean it’s usually quiet, even when the island is busy with tourists exploring the fortress.

The real star of the show, though, is the view.

From the beach, you have an incredible perspective of the fortress walls and the Kolokitha peninsula across the water.

It’s a view that perfectly encapsulates the blend of history and natural beauty that makes Crete so special.

Annehmlichkeiten

When it comes to amenities, Spinalonga Beach keeps things simple and natural.

There are no beach bars, sunbeds, or umbrellas here.

The main ‘amenity’ is the natural shade provided by the tamarisk trees.

Es gibt basic facilities available on the island itself, including toilets and a small cafe, but these are not located directly on the beach.

They’re part of the general tourist infrastructure for visitors to the fortress.

Water and snacks are available for purchase on the island, but it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time on the beach.

Remember, the lack of modern amenities is part of what makes this beach special.

It’s all about enjoying the natural beauty and historical surroundings.

Unterkünfte

Spinalonga is a small island and a protected historical site, so there are no accommodations on the island itself.

Visitors are not allowed to stay overnight.

However, there are plenty of accommodation options in the nearby areas of Elounda and Plaka. These range from luxury resorts to small, family-run guesthouses.

Elounda, about 5.5 km away, offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, many with stunning views of Spinalonga.

Plaka, the closest village to Spinalonga (about 1.2 km), has several small hotels and apartments.

For those looking to explore more of the Lassithi beaches, staying in Agios Nikolaos (about 15 km away) could be a good option.

It’s a larger town with more facilities and a good base for exploring the eastern part of Crete.

Wherever you choose to stay, make sure to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Geschichte und Bedeutung

Spinalonga Island, home to this beautiful beach, has a rich and complex history that spans centuries.

Originally, it was part of the mainland, but the Venetians carved it out in 1526 to create a fortress.

The island played a crucial role in protecting the Venetian salt pans in nearby Elounda, which were a valuable resource at the time.

Later, it fell under Ottoman rule before becoming part of the modern Greek state.

Perhaps the most poignant chapter in Spinalonga’s history is its role as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957.

During this time, it was home to hundreds of people suffering from leprosy, isolated from the rest of society.

Today, Spinalonga stands as a powerful reminder of these different historical periods.

The fortress walls, Ottoman-era houses, and the remnants of the leper colony all tell stories of the island’s past.

The beach itself, while not historically significant, offers a unique perspective on this history. Swimming here, with the fortress looming above, creates a striking contrast between leisure and the island’s complex past.

Spinalonga has also gained fame in popular culture, featuring in Victoria Hislop’s best-selling novel “The Island.”

This has further increased interest in the island and its history.

For more information about the historical sites in the region, you can check the Lassithi Municipality website.

Aktivitäten

While Spinalonga Beach may be small, there’s no shortage of things to do both on the beach and around the island:

Schwimmen: The clear, deep waters are perfect for a refreshing swim. Just remember to stay close to the shore and avoid swimming towards the mainland due to strong currents.

Sunbathing: Relax on the sand or under the shade of the tamarisk trees. It’s a great spot to unwind after exploring the island.

Fotografie: The beach offers unique photo opportunities, with the fortress walls and Kolokitha peninsula as stunning backdrops.

Schnorcheln: Bring your own gear to explore the underwater world around the island. The clear waters offer good visibility.

Historical Tours: While not strictly a beach activity, exploring the fortress and learning about the island’s history is a must-do.

Vogelbeobachtung: The island attracts various bird species, making it an interesting spot for birdwatchers.

Boat Trips: Many visitors combine their trip to Spinalonga with a boat tour around the island or to nearby beaches.

Remember to respect the historical site and natural environment while enjoying these activities.

Essen

Dining options on Spinalonga Island itself are limited.

There’s a small cafe on the island that offers basic refreshments and snacks, but it’s not a full-service restaurant.

For a proper meal, you’ll need to head back to the mainland.

The nearby village of Plaka, where many of the boats to Spinalonga depart from, has several excellent tavernas specializing in fresh seafood and traditional Cretan cuisine.

Unter Elounda, a bit further away, you’ll find a wider range of dining options, from casual beachfront tavernas to upscale restaurants.

If you’re planning to spend the day on Spinalonga Beach, consider packing a picnic. Just remember to take all your trash with you to help preserve this beautiful spot.

For those interested in Cretan cuisine, don’t miss local specialties like dakos (a Cretan salad), kalitsounia (cheese pies), and fresh grilled fish.

And of course, no meal in Crete is complete without a shot of raki to finish!

Das Beste für Reisende

Spinalonga Beach and the island itself are ideal for:

History Enthusiasts: The island’s rich past, from Venetian fortress to leper colony, provides a fascinating historical journey.

Beach Lovers: Those who appreciate a quiet, natural beach with stunning views.

Fotografen: The contrast between the ancient fortress and the beautiful beach offers unique photo opportunities.

Culture Seekers: Visitors interested in Cretan culture and how it intersects with wider Mediterranean history.

Naturbegeisterte: The island’s flora and fauna, including the tamarisk trees on the beach, are interesting for nature lovers.

Swimmers: The deep, clear waters are perfect for those who enjoy a good swim.

Es ist weniger geeignet für:

Party-Goers: There’s no nightlife on the island, and it closes to visitors in the evening.

Luxury Seekers: Facilities are basic, focusing on preserving the island’s natural and historical character.

Accessibility Needs: The terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Spinalonga Beach Map – Getting There

Reaching Spinalonga Beach involves a short but scenic boat trip, which is part of the experience!

The most common departure points for boats to Spinalonga are Elounda und Plaka.

Elounda is larger and offers more frequent departures, while Plaka is closer to the island.

From Elounda, the boat trip takes about 20 minutes. From Plaka, it’s even shorter, about 10 minutes.

Boats typically run from Mai bis Oktober, with more frequent services during peak summer months.

It’s a good idea to check the boat schedule in advance, especially if you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons.

To get to Elounda or Plaka, you can drive or take a bus from larger towns like Agios Nikolaos.

If you’re driving, there’s parking available in both Elounda and Plaka.

Once on the island, the beach is on the southwest side.

It’s a short walk from where the boats dock, and you’ll likely pass it as part of your tour around the island.

For the most up-to-date information on boat schedules and access to the island, check the offizielle Website der Region Kreta.

Entfernungen von den wichtigsten kretischen Städten

Approximate distances and driving times from major Cretan cities to Elounda (nearest departure point for Spinalonga):

• Chania: 250 km (155 miles), about 3 hours 30 minutes drive
• Rethymnon: 195 km (121 miles), about 2 hours 45 minutes drive
• Heraklion: 75 km (47 miles), about 1 hour 15 minutes drive
• Hersonissos60 km (37 Meilen), etwa 1 Stunde Fahrt
• Malia: 50 km (31 miles), about 50 minutes drive
• Agios Nikolaos: 12 km (7.5 miles), about 20 minutes drive
• Ierapetra: 60 km (37 miles), about 1 hour 10 minutes drive

Please note that these are approximate times to reach Elounda. From there, you’ll need to take a boat to Spinalonga Island (about 20 minutes). Public buses connect most of these cities to Agios Nikolaos, from where you can take another bus or taxi to Elounda. However, for more flexibility, renting a car is often the best option. The roads to Elounda are generally good, but can be winding in some parts, especially the final stretch from Agios Nikolaos.

Tipps

Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Spinalonga Beach:

Timing is Key: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and the busiest tour groups.

Bring Supplies: Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and any beach gear you might want. There are limited facilities on the island.

Wear Good Shoes: The terrain on the island can be rough. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring.

Respect the Site: Remember, Spinalonga is a protected historical site. Don’t remove any artifacts or damage the structures.

Bring Cash: There are no ATMs on the island, so bring enough cash for boat tickets, entry fees, and any purchases.

Consider a Guide: While you can explore on your own, a guided tour can provide valuable insights into the island’s history.

Be Sun Smart: The beach has some natural shade, but it’s limited. Bring a hat and use sunscreen.

Swim Safely: Enjoy swimming, but be aware of boat traffic and don’t attempt to swim to the mainland.

Bring a Camera: The views from the beach and around the island are stunning. You’ll want to capture them!

Check the Weather: Boat trips may be cancelled in very windy conditions. Have a backup plan just in case.

Remember, visiting Spinalonga is about more than just the beach – it’s a chance to connect with a unique piece of Cretan history.

For more information about Spinalonga and other attractions in Crete, check out Kretorama, your comprehensive guide to the island.

Before planning your trip, it’s a good idea to check the Website der Griechischen Nationalen Tourismusorganisation for any travel requirements or local advisories.

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