Explore magnificent East Crete

Route: Elounda Spinalonga - Agios Nikolaos - Vassilakis estate

Spinalonga: An Island of History and Resilience

From the charming harbor of Elounda, we will board a traditional wooden boat to reach the island of Spinalonga. Known in antiquity as Kalydon, the island received its current name during the Venetian era. Today, efforts are underway to include Spinalonga in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

• A Strategic Fortress: The Venetians built a powerful fortress here (1579–1586) on the ruins of an ancient castle to protect the port of Ancient Olous from Arab raids in the Mediterranean.
• The Struggle for Freedom: During the Cretan War, the island served as a refuge and a base for Greek rebels (Chainides) who harassed the Ottoman occupiers. The Turks eventually captured the island in 1715.
• The Leper Colony: In 1903, the Cretan State established a Leper Colony on Spinalonga to provide organized care for those suffering from Hansen's disease. The colony operated until 1957, when the discovery of antibiotics led to the recovery of the patients and the final abandonment of the island.
• Cultural Legacy: Now one of Crete’s most famous landmarks, the island gained international fame as the setting for Victoria Hislop’s best-selling novel, The Island.

Agios Nikolaos: The Lakeside Cosmopolis

Our second stop is the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, the cosmopolitan capital of the Lasithi region. Built on the western side of Mirabello Bay, it takes its name from the local Byzantine church of St. Nicholas.

• Lake Voulismeni: The town’s centerpiece is this stunning small lagoon in the city center. Legend has it that the lake is bottomless, a myth fueled by its impressive depth. It serves as a scenic harbor for traditional fishing boats and is surrounded by charming cafes.
• Unique Architecture: Because the town is built on very steep slopes, many areas are connected by beautiful, winding staircases instead of roads, making a walk through its streets a truly unique experience.

Vassilakis Estate: A 150-Year Olive Oil Legacy

Our final stop brings us to Neapoli for a complimentary olive oil tasting at the Vassilakis Estate.

The history of this family business is deeply rooted in the Mirabello Valley. It began over 150 years ago when the first Manolis Vassilakis - known as "Vasilomanolis" - realized his vision of building a "fabrica" (olive mill) to press olives from his ancient trees. He famously rolled a massive millstone across rugged hills for days to set up one of the valley's first mills.

Today, the 5th generation of the family continues this award-winning tradition, standing as one of Crete’s premier producers and exporters of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

Please Note: The driver provides transportation and general information but does not accompany the group as a guide inside archaeological sites or specific attractions.