Plaka (near Elounda)

Book with B&S Luxurious Transfers your Taxi to Plaka | Safe Transport - Reliable Services at Best Rates! VIP services. Meet & Greet. Private Transfers.

Plaka

Plaka is located 16km north of Agios Nikolaos, opposite the entrance of the lagoon of Korfos (or lagoon of Elounda), in one of the most beautiful places of Crete.

A feature of Plaka is the wonderful views of the island Kalydon, on where the famous fortress of Spinalonga stands. Spinalonga operated as a leper hospital during the first half of the 20th century. The island can be reached primarily by boat from Elounda and Plaka. Indeed, Plaka existence is highly linked to Spinalonga, as the settlement was built for serving the leper colony.

Today, in Plaka you will find several traditional taverns and lovely old houses, which give you the impression that time has stopped here 2-3 centuries ago. 

Plaka could not be left off the list of beaches in Crete, since there are two picturesque pebbly beaches with crystal clear waters. The first beach is in front of the large hotel, on the east of the village (the beach at the centre of the attached photo). The beach of Agia Marina, as it is called after the nearby Byzantine church and cemetery of Agia Marina, has big pebbles and deep waters.

Those not staying at the hotel may access that via a small path running next to the cemetery. The seabed in some areas, especially outside the area in front of the hotel, is quite rough, making the area one of the most famous fishing grounds. Agia Marina is organized by the hotel with all basic services, which are provided primarily to its residents.