Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Tour With BBQ & Swim

Crete’s captivating history and natural beauty unite in the Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Tour. Visitors will explore the poignant ruins of Spinalonga, once a leper colony, before enjoying a refreshing swim and delectable BBQ lunch in Kolokitha Bay. The tour also ventures to the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, showcasing its picturesque lake and vibrant local shops. This immersive experience promises an unforgettable day, leaving one eager to uncover more of Crete’s remarkable treasures.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best BBQ Experiences In Heraklion.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Heraklion explores the historical Spinalonga island, offers a boat trip and swim at Kolokitha Bay, and visits the scenic town of Agios Nikolaos.
• The tour includes an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a BBQ lunch at Kolokitha Bay, providing a comprehensive experience.
• Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress and ruins of Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, learning about its intriguing history.
• The boat stop at Kolokitha Bay allows for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters and a relaxing BBQ lunch on the beach.
• The tour also includes a visit to Agios Nikolaos, where participants can enjoy scenic views, explore the shops, and see the natural Lake Voulismeni.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour, titled ‘Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Tour with BBQ & Swim,’ lasts 8.5 hours and costs from €90.00 per person.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and an English-speaking guide is included with hotel pickup and drop-off.

The highlight of this tour is a visit to Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, established in 1903 and operational until 1957. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress and ruins of the market street, hospital, and leper residences.

The tour also includes a boat stop at Kolokitha Bay for swimming and a BBQ lunch, as well as time to explore the major town of Agios Nikolaos with its shops and scenic harbor views.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary highlights a visit to Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe that was established in 1903 and operational until 1957. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress and ruins of the market street, hospital, and leper residences on this island.

After the Spinalonga visit, the tour includes a stop at Kolokitha Bay where guests can enjoy swimming and a barbecue lunch on the beach.

The final destination is the major town of Agios Nikolaos, which features Lake Voulismeni, shops, and scenic views of the harbor.

This diverse itinerary offers a unique combination of history, leisure, and sightseeing, providing participants with a well-rounded experience during their time in Crete.

Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, was established in 1903 and remained operational until 1957. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress and ruins of the market street, hospital, and leper residences on this island. The tour offers a glimpse into the island’s dark past:

1. The fortress walls and bastions that once protected the lepers from the outside world.

2. The market street where lepers traded goods and conducted daily life.

3. The hospital that provided medical care, albeit limited, to the island’s residents.

4. The crumbling buildings that housed the lepers, a poignant reminder of their isolation and suffering.

Spinalonga’s haunting history and well-preserved ruins make it a must-see destination on this Heraklion tour.

Kolokitha Bay Experience

After exploring the historic Spinalonga Island, the tour takes visitors to the picturesque Kolokitha Bay, where they can enjoy a refreshing swim and a delicious BBQ lunch. The boat journey to the bay offers stunning views of the coastline, setting the stage for a relaxing interlude. At the bay, guests can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and unwind on the sandy beach. The BBQ lunch, included in the tour, features a selection of grilled meats, vegetables, and vegetarian options, providing a satisfying and flavorful mid-day meal. This beach stop allows participants to recharge and soak in the natural beauty of the region before continuing on to the next destination.

Boat Journey	Beach Time	BBQ Lunch	Swimming
Coastal views	Sandy shore	Meat options	Cool waters
Scenic route	Relaxation	Veg options	Refreshing
Tranquil ride	Beach access	Satisfying	Rejuvenating
Prelude to bay	Leisure time	Flavorful	Revitalizing

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Agios Nikolaos Town

Following the tranquil experience at Kolokitha Bay, the tour then takes visitors to the major town of Agios Nikolaos, a lively hub with 14,000 residents.

This picturesque town offers a variety of attractions:

1. Lake Voulismeni, a stunning natural lake in the center of the town, surrounded by cafes and shops.

2. A charming harbor lined with restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, providing scenic views of the boats and waterfront.

3. Vibrant shopping opportunities, with a range of local and international stores, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

4. Panoramic viewpoints offering breathtaking vistas of the town, the harbor, and the surrounding hills and coastline.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos allows visitors to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the natural beauty of this captivating Greek town.

Included Meals and Fees

The tour includes a BBQ lunch with options for pork, chicken, or vegetarian, as well as entrance fees to Spinalonga for €8 and the boat tickets and BBQ for €12 (€6 for children under 12). Additional transfer costs are €12 per person from Agia Pelagia and €6 per person from Heraklion Center.

Inclusions	Cost
Spinalonga Entrance Fee	€8
BBQ Lunch & Boat Tickets	€12 (€6 for children)
Transfer from Agia Pelagia	€12 per person
Transfer from Heraklion Center	€6 per person

The tour provides a satisfying dining experience and convenient transportation options, ensuring a well-rounded excursion.

Important Tips

Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and loose clothing are recommended for this tour.

While the tour doesn’t involve extensive walking, it’s important to dress comfortably for exploration and the beach activities.

Guests should also note a few key tips:

1. Bring cash for any additional expenses, as credit card acceptance may be limited in some areas.

2. Stay hydrated throughout the day by packing plenty of water.

3. Be prepared for the Mediterranean sun by applying sunscreen and wearing a hat.

4. Avoid bringing valuables that could be lost or stolen during the boat trip or beach time.

Following these simple tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Tour With BBQ & Swim.

Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Heraklion: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos Tour With BBQ & Swim has received an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.

Customers have highlighted positive experiences, commending the ease of booking, friendly and knowledgeable guides, enjoyable boat trip, and satisfactory BBQ lunch.

Many have also recommended the tour for its historical and scenic value, particularly the visits to Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos.

Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to explore the well-preserved fortress and ruins of the former leper colony on Spinalonga, as well as the chance to swim and relax at Kolokitha Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour appears suitable for families with young children. The itinerary includes a boat trip, beach time, and a BBQ lunch, which should appeal to families. However, the information notes the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which may impact some families.

Can I Purchase Additional Excursions or Activities During the Tour?

While on the tour, guests can’t purchase additional excursions or activities. The tour package includes specific inclusions like the Spinalonga visit, BBQ lunch, and Agios Nikolaos exploration. Any extra experiences would need to be arranged separately.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated for the BBQ Lunch?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions for the BBQ lunch, offering pork, chicken, and vegetarian options. Guests with specific dietary needs can notify the tour provider in advance to ensure their requirements are met.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated for Personal Exploration?

The tour provides approximately 2 hours of free time in Agios Nikolaos for guests to explore the town and its lakefront at their own pace. This allows for personal discovery and enjoyment within the overall structured itinerary.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants in the Tour Group?

The tour group size is not explicitly stated. Tour operators typically do not limit the number of participants, but group sizes are often small enough to provide a personalized experience. The specific group size may vary depending on demand.

Recap

This Heraklion tour offers an immersive experience blending Crete’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and local culture.

Visitors can explore the poignant ruins of Spinalonga, enjoy a refreshing swim and BBQ lunch in Kolokitha Bay, and discover the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

With its diverse activities and breathtaking scenery, this tour provides an unforgettable day that showcases the best of Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: