Spinalonga – Agios Nikolaos From Heraklion

Spinalonga Island, once a leper colony, now stands as a testament to Crete’s rich history. This private tour from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos offers a captivating journey through the remnants of the Venetian fortress and the poignant past of those who once lived in isolation on the island. Travelers can expect a scenic boat ride, a chance to swim, and a delightful barbecue lunch, all while exploring the stunning landscapes with the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable experience, this excursion promises to provide a unique glimpse into Crete’s captivating heritage.

Key Points

• The tour departs from north coast resorts in Crete, including Hersonnissos, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos, with hotel pickup and drop-off provided.
• Guests will visit the historic Spinalonga Island, which served as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957, to explore the streets and fortifications.
• The tour includes a swim stop and a barbecue lunch on the island, as well as a 1-hour stop at an Olive Factory in Malia.
• The full-day private trip lasts 6 hours, with 5 hours spent on Spinalonga, and has a maximum group size of 100 travelers.
• The tour is priced at $54.58 per person and includes transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, and the Spinalonga entrance fee of 8 euros per person.

Tour Overview

On this full-day private trip to Spinalonga Island from north Crete, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the former leper colony and Venetian fortress.

After sailing to the island, guests can wander through the streets, abandoned houses, and ruined fortifications, learning about the island’s history as a leper confinement from 1903 to 1957.

The tour also includes a swim stop and a barbecue lunch.

Plus, the itinerary features a 1-hour stop at the Olive Factory in Malia, providing a well-rounded experience.

With a tour duration of 6 hours, this excursion offers a comprehensive look into Spinalonga’s rich history and natural beauty.

Spinalonga Island Excursion

This full-day private trip takes visitors to the captivating island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony and Venetian fortress off the north coast of Crete.

Guests will sail to the island, explore its streets, houses, and ruined fortifications, and learn about the island’s history as a leper confinement from 1903 to 1957.

The tour includes a swim stop and a barbecue lunch.

After Spinalonga, the group will visit an olive factory in Malia.

The tour duration is 6 hours, with 5 hours spent on Spinalonga.

Transportation is provided from north coast resorts, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Leper Colony History

Spinalonga Island held a dark history as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. Thousands of people were isolated and confined on the island, forced to live in seclusion and experience the stigma of their disease.

The leper colony was a harsh and unforgiving place, marked by:

• Strict quarantine measures
• Limited medical treatment
• Deplorable living conditions
• Psychological trauma
• Separation from loved ones

Despite the suffering, the leper colony also fostered a sense of community among the residents, who supported each other and found ways to survive.

The history of Spinalonga serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of disease and the need for compassion and understanding.

Transportation and Pickup

For this private trip to Spinalonga Island, transportation is provided from north coast resorts in Crete. Guests will be picked up and dropped off at select hotels in areas like Hersonnissos, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos.

Those outside the pickup zone must reach the meeting point independently. The tour starts at 8:00 am, and transportation is included in the overall tour price.

The maximum group size is 100 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, navigating to Spinalonga is hassle-free, allowing visitors to focus on exploring the island’s fascinating history and natural beauty.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price for this private trip to Spinalonga Island starts from $54.58 per person. The entrance fee to Spinalonga is 8 euros per person.

The tour includes:

• Transportation via coach from north coast resorts
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Tips and personal expenses
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
• Reserve now, pay later option available

The tour offers an excellent value, allowing visitors to explore the island’s rich history and natural beauty at an affordable price.

With the convenience of transportation and flexible booking options, this Spinalonga tour is an attractive choice for those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Crete.

Visitor Feedback

Travelers have shared their experiences and impressions of the Spinalonga Island tour through 16 reviews, resulting in an overall rating of 4.0 stars.

Nine reviews awarded 5 stars, highlighting the tour’s interesting historical significance, professional guides, and beautiful scenery.

Three reviews gave 4 stars, while one review each awarded 3, 2, and 1 star.

Positive feedback praised the tour, but some suggestions for improvement included better communication regarding pickup and bus details.

Dress Code and Accessibility

A smart casual dress code is recommended for this Spinalonga Island tour. While the tour itself is relatively casual, visitors are advised to avoid overly revealing or inappropriate attire. This will ensure a more respectful experience when exploring the historic site.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and steps throughout the island. Most travelers, however, are still able to participate and enjoy the fascinating history and beautiful scenery.

Key considerations for visitors include:

• Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes
• Bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen
• Pack a swimsuit and towel for the swim stop
• Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather
• Prepare for a moderate level of physical activity

Tour Operator Information

As per the details provided, this Spinalonga Island tour is operated by MTM TOURISM GREECE OE, a local tour company based in Crete.

They offer a full-day private trip to the former leper colony and Venetian fortress on the island. The tour includes transportation from northern Crete resorts, a swim stop, and a barbecue lunch.

With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers per tour, the company provides a personalized experience for its guests.

Reviews indicate the tour guides are professional, and the historical significance of Spinalonga is well-conveyed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to Spinalonga Island?

You can bring your own food and drinks to Spinalonga Island. The tour includes a barbecue lunch, but you’re free to bring additional snacks or beverages if desired to enjoy during your exploration of the island.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available on the Island?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on Spinalonga Island. Visitors can use the public restrooms located near the island’s entrance during their tour. These amenities provide a convenient option for guests exploring the former leper colony.

Is There a Separate Fee for the Olive Factory Visit?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention a separate fee for the Olive Factory visit. It’s included as part of the overall tour price, which starts from $54.58 per person and covers transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and other inclusions.

Can I Extend My Stay on Spinalonga Island Beyond the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t allow guests to extend their stay on Spinalonga Island beyond the 5-hour allotted time. The tour is a pre-planned, full-day experience with a set itinerary and duration that cannot be modified.

What Should I Do if I Miss the Scheduled Pickup Time?

If you miss the scheduled pickup time, you’ll need to reach the meeting point independently. The tour doesn’t offer flexibility for late arrivals, so it’s important to be on time. You can contact the tour operator for assistance.

Recap

The Spinalonga Island excursion from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos offers a captivating journey into Crete’s history. Visitors can explore the remnants of a former leper colony and Venetian fortress, enjoy a scenic boat ride, swim, and savor a delightful barbecue lunch. With a knowledgeable guide and convenient hotel pickup, this experience is both educational and memorable, making it a must-do for travelers seeking to enjoy the island’s poignant past.