Island Hopping in Crete | Elissos
The sound of island hopping in Crete may sound strange at first. However, once you uncover the magnificent islands that surround Crete, you will soon realize that island hopping in Crete is the way to vacation!
Crete is an exceptional island with a long and fascinating history. Full of myths, legends, and stories, Crete holds a special place in the hearts of history-lovers. Furthermore, Crete has stunning beaches, grand mountains, impressive plains, and traditional villages. Finally, Crete’s cuisine is the base of the acclaimed Mediterranean diet, one of the healthiest diets in the world. The authentic Cretan dishes are mouthwatering and will even be appeasing to the most eclectic eaters.
The only difference between the islands around Crete and the actual main island is the size. Otherwise, the tiny islands hold traces of ancient settlements and are of great cultural importance. Moreover, many of them may be uninhibited, still, they boast striking landscapes and are worth every second you are there. Reaching the islands perhaps is the most challenging bit. The biggest ones have regular ferry services, however, if you wish to visit the smaller ones, renting a charter is a great idea! As an alternative, experienced travelers may consider paddling or sea kayaking over.
Chrissi Island: The Exotic Escape – Crete
Chrissi is a breezy island, ideal to escape from it all! An extremely clean island with exotic turquoise waters and slightly pinkish sand. The pink sand color comes from the crushed seashells. The remarkable Golden Beach is located on the northern part of the island, where the palette of blue prevails! There you will find sunbeds and umbrellas so you can enjoy your entire day gazing at the sparkling waters.
How to get there: Boats sail from Ierapetra daily from 10:30 am and return at 5 pm. The most exciting part is that you may even see dolphins on your way there!
Balos Island: The Blue Lagoon – Crete
Off the northwest coast of Crete, lays an exquisite sandy beach between the capes of Gramvousa and Tigani. Balos is unique, picturesque and with just one glimpse you will understand why it is the most photographed beach in Crete. Facing towards the small motor shipwreck and the 137 meters tall Venetian fort, Balos is famous for its crystal-clear waters and peculiar scenery. The natural beauty of this place is why the crowds favor Balos during the busy months of July and August.
How to get there: There are 3 main ways to reach the beach.
The first and most preferred way is to catch the morning boat from Kissamos.
In case you are not willing to arrive with the crowds and you have a vehicle that you can drive off-road, then drive from Kaliviani along the cape of Gramvoussa. After about 10 kilometers, you will be over the lagoon and we promise you that the view is simply breathtaking! From that point, there is a 1-kilometer stone path that will lead you straight to paradise!
The third and final option is possibly the least appealing, however in our opinion the most stimulating! Walk from Kaliviani for 3 hours to Gramvousa. Along the way stop at the charming church of St. George. Also, you may stop at the large cave where Christian women and children are used as their hiding spot. Unfortunately, they were discovered by the Turks and we slaughtered. Today, you will find a commemorative plaque in memory of those who tragically lost their lives.
Koufonisi Island: The Hidden Gem – Crete
On this rocky and deserted landscape, the island of Koufonisi with its beautiful shimmering waters welcomes you. An interesting fact is that Koufonisi island was once called Lefki. Koufonisi has an exceptionally long history as in ancient times it was an important center of purpura (red dye coming from shells). Furthermore, archaeologists excavated a well-preserved ancient theater, ancient houses, workshops, and many more compelling findings.
How to get there: A slightly challenging island to reach, but it is worth it! Renting a private vessel from Makrigialos is the best way to sail to this island. These vessels sail to Koufonisi every day and can hold up to 10 passengers. Do not forget to bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen as this island does not have many trees, meaning almost any shade.
Elafonissi Island: The Pink Sand Beach – Crete
An island that is situated near the main island of Crete, which is remarkably unique! Elafonissi is notorious for its pink sand and therefore, thousands of tourists flock there every summer to take famous pictures! The pink color is a product of colorful microorganisms that interact with the native seaweed. Elafonissi, is without a doubt one of the prettiest islands in the world, with a heartbreaking history. On the highest point of the island, there is a plaque to remember the massacre of 1824 during the Greek War of Independence. In addition, there is a large wooden cross on the island to remind us of those who lost their lives trying to escape the sinking steamer in 1907. Today, the wreck is still on the seabed near the island.
How to get there: It is only less than 100 meters far from Crete and it is possible to walk there. Just make sure that the tides are right if you decide to walk across.
Spinalonga Island: The Archaeological Site – Crete
Spinalonga island is one of Crete’s most beloved and famous attractions. Also, it is one of Crete’s most imperative archaeological sites. Spinalonga island was turned into a fortress in the middle of the 16th century and constituted one of the best examples of the Venetian defensive architecture. From 1903-1957 Spinalonga’s impregnable castle was turned into the last European leper colony. You will have the chance to explore the buildings from the Venetian, Ottoman, and Modern periods. Spinalonga will allow you to uncover the different historic faces of this incredibly special place.
How to get there: From the seaside village of Plaka, you can take a traditional boat that will have you on the island of Spinalonga in 10-15 minutes. There are many boats, and they depart all day!
Dia Island: Zeus’s Island – Crete
The small island of Dia is only 11 kilometers off the coast of Heraklion. It is called Zeus’s island because based on mythology, he was the one who created Dia Island, so the ancient Cretans dedicated the island to him. Dia is a Natura 2000 protected area as its biodiversity is extraordinarily special! You will find wild rabbits and hawks. The gorgeous piercing bays that surround this small island, such as Kapari, Panagia, and Agrielia are all sublime! Apart from the dazzling nature, visit the quaint church of Holy Ascension with its blue roof. Furthermore, it is interesting to mention that Dia has 7 ancient shipwrecks! However, Cousteau in 1976 discovered squared and rectangular rocks in the seabed of Dia, that made up an artificial breakwater, known as the Cyclopean Walls. A final fact about Dia is that it was the biggest port of Knossos!
How to get there: Every day there are boats from Heraklion or Gouves that sail to Dia.
Gavdos Island: The Hippy Haven – Crete
Gavdos is the southernmost point in Europe and has a huge chair on Cape Tripiti from where you can look towards Africa. This phenomenal ancient island played a critical role in Homer’s Odyssey. It is the site of Ogygia, where Kalypso kept Odysseus prisoner for 7 years! Gavdos is a magical island with strong magnetic fields. Legend has it that after the Chernobyl disaster, the Russian nuclear scientists went to Gavdos to be cured after they had been exposed to strong doses of radioactivity. The most impressive beach in Gavdos is Saint John, the most beautiful spots to see the sunset is from Faros and the best local dish is “tsigariasto”. You can find this gastronomical wonder in taverns overlooking the astonishing sea. The hippy vibe is all around the island, as travelers visit Gavdos to unwind and to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
How to get there: Take the boat from Paleochora or Sfakia in Chania.
Wishing a Private Trip on a Luxury Sailing Yacht, Motor Boat, or Catamaran to these majestic islands during your holidays in Crete?!
Don’t hesitate to reach us for all arrangements and insights!