Spinalonga in the bay of Elounda: the Venetian fortress, the leper colony of 1903 to 1957, boats from Plaka, Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, and tips.
Quick answer: Spinalonga is a small fortified island in the bay of Elounda in eastern Crete. The Venetians built its fortress in the 16th century, and from 1903 to 1957 it was a leper colony. Boats run from Plaka (the shortest crossing), Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Allow one to two hours on the island.
The history of Spinalonga
Venetian fortress
In 1579 the Venetians began fortifying the island to guard the entrance to the bay of Elounda and its salt pans. The fortress was so strong that it stayed in Venetian hands long after the rest of Crete fell to the Ottomans, until it was handed over in the early 18th century.
Ottoman village
Under Ottoman rule a small Muslim community lived and traded on the island, and many of the houses you see today date from this period.
The leper colony
In 1903 Spinalonga became a colony for people with leprosy (Hansen's disease), who were isolated here until it closed in 1957. The patients built a community with shops, a church and a school. Their story became widely known through Victoria Hislop's novel The Island and the Greek TV series based on it.
How do I get to Spinalonga?
- From Plaka: the shortest crossing, only a few minutes, with boats leaving regularly in season.
- From Elounda: a longer boat ride, often combined with a swim stop.
- From Agios Nikolaos: day cruises that include Spinalonga and nearby bays.
The boat fare and the entrance ticket to the island are separate.
How long do you need on Spinalonga?
One to two hours is enough to walk the circular path, see the fortress walls, the restored houses and the small museum displays. There is little shade, so bring water and a hat.
When is the best time to visit Spinalonga?
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon in summer, when it is cooler and the boats are less full. Spring and autumn are ideal.
Spinalonga is in Lasithi, the quiet east of Crete. Combine it with Agios Nikolaos, the Lasithi Plateau or the palm beach of Vai.
