Posted by Located in the turquoise waters of Mirabello Bay, Spinalonga Island is one of Crete‘s most fascinating landmarks. This small island near Elounda is known for its dramatic history and served as a Venetian fortress, Ottoman settlement and one of Europe’s last leper colonies. Today it is a poignant reminder of the resilience of its inhabitants and an impressive testament to Crete’s complex past.
The crossing and guided tours of Spinalonga should be booked online in advance at Getyourguide: >>> Link to the booking page
Overnight stays in Spinalonga: Of course, you can’t stay overnight on the island itself. You have to leave Spinalonga after the opening hours in the evening. There are hotels at the departure points of the ferries to Spinalonga. These are mainly Elounda and Plaka. Elounda is a very well-known holiday resort on Crete with many hotels. You can find hotels in Elounda on Booking.com. The Lena Apartments accommodation has very good reviews in Elounda. In Plaka we can recommend Plaka Elounda Cozy Apartment.
A Venetian heritage
The history of Spinalonga begins in the late 16th century, when the Venetians fortified the island to protect the Gulf of Elounda from the Ottoman troops. The imposing stone walls, bastions and towers are still largely intact and represent a striking example of Venetian military architecture. Once a symbol of strength and control, the fortifications now frame the island’s tranquil beauty and give visitors a glimpse of the island’s strategic importance during Venetian rule.
Life as a leper colony
From 1903 to 1957, Spinalonga served as a leper colony, providing a refuge for people suffering from Hansen’s disease. Shunned by society, lepers established a community on the island, building homes, shops and churches. Despite their isolation, they managed to live lives of dignity, form relationships and develop a sense of normality despite adversity.
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| City of Rethymno | Island of Spinalonga |
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Exploring Spinalonga
A visit to Spinalonga is a journey through time. Start with a boat trip from nearby Elounda, Plaka or Agios Nikolaos and approach the island as travellers did centuries ago. On arrival, the impressive Venetian walls and arched gate welcome you to explore a network of narrow streets, stone buildings and scenic viewpoints.
Highlights include the Venetian fortress with its sweeping views over the bay and the remains of the leper settlement. Informative signs and guided tours provide historical context and bring the island’s vibrant yet turbulent past to life.
A place of reflection
The haunting beauty of Spinalonga lies in the contrast between historical suffering and the natural splendor of its surroundings. The island is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status and is celebrated for its cultural significance and its role in preserving Crete’s history.
A visit to Spinalonga allows travelers to reflect on themes such as human resilience, compassion and survival, as well as offering a deeper understanding of Crete’s diverse past, making it a must-see for history lovers and adventurers alike.
Tips for visiting
Spinalonga is a popular tourist destination, so it is advisable to book your boat trip in advance. Guided tours provide a better insight into the island’s history, while independent travelers can explore the island at their own pace. Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes, as the island’s terrain has uneven paths, and a hat to protect you from the Cretan sun.
The crossing and guided tours of Spinalonga should be booked online in advance at Getyourguide: >>> Link to the booking page
In addition to Spinalonga, the Knossos Palace not far from the Cretan capital Heraklio and the Samaria Gorge (hike) in the south-west of the island are among the top sights in Crete.
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