M NEXUS INSIGHT
// environment

Can you walk to Spinalonga?

By Matthew Wilson

Can you walk to Spinalonga?

Along the east coast and across the peninsula The path is not difficult to walk and it is a beautiful, 20 to 30-minute hike. Small chapel on the eastern headland. From here one can also cross the Spinalonga peninsula via small paths.

Does the island of Spinalonga exist?

Spinalonga (Greek: Σπιναλόγκα) is an island located in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, in Lasithi, next to the town of Plaka. The island is further assigned to the area of Kalydon. During Venetian rule, salt was harvested from salt pans around the island. The island has also been used as a leper colony.

Can you stay on Spinalonga?

Nobody could be cured – so the lepers of Spinalonga expected a lifelong stay. There were up to a 1,000 patients on the island, which is separated from Crete by only a few hundred meters.

Does anyone live on Spinalonga?

Spinalonga, a small island in the Gulf of Elounda in north-eastern Crete, was used to isolate people affected by leprosy from 1903 to 1957. Settlement began in 1903, and by October 1904, 251 people lived at Spinalonga (148 men and 103 women).

How long does it take to visit Spinalonga?

From Elounda harbour, there is a boat to Spinalonga every 30 minutes throughout the summer. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the island, while the sea voyage sometimes includes a sail around the Kolokytha Peninsula. There are also boats from the little village of Plaka just north of Elounda.

How long does it take to walk around Spinalonga?

approximately one hour
From 1903 – 1957 Spinalonga Island was used as a leper colony and was the last active colony in Europe. Strolling through the ruins was very interesting & also perfect for taking photo’s. The walk around the island takes approximately one hour.

When did the last person leave Spinalonga?

The island served as a leper colony through the 18th and 19th century, and even into the 20th century, the last leper leaving in 1957.

Which is better Crete or Santorini?

Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon. Santorini has better and more unique luxury hotels. Both Santorini and Crete have a longer tourism season than most Greek islands.

How do you get a spinalonga?

To get to Spinalonga you must take the boat from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda or Plaka. Boats depart from Agios Nikolaos in the morning. Apart from the trip to Spinalonga, they also offer lunch and the opportunity for a swim off the beaches behind the Kolokytha Peninsula, before returning to Agios Nikolaos in the afternoon.