The small village of Plaka is located in the stunning setting of Mirabello bay, right opposite the famous island of Spinalonga with its Venetian fortress. It used to be a tiny fishing village only attracting a handful of visitors, this is beginning to change with a number of hotels and apartments springing up, but lets not get carried away is still peaceful and uncrowded.

Situated off the coastal road leading from Elounda, it’s a traditional and friendly little village oozing simple pleasures of Cretan village life centred on charming local cafes and tavernas. It has a small shingle beach with crystal clear waters and calm seas, perfect for a quite and relaxing swimming.

Plaka is in a privileged position of having the islet of Spinalonga directly in front of its beach, there is small pier where fishermen are willing to ferry you across to see the Venetian fortress and the ruins, there are also organized boat trips from Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.

The area around Plaka is full of lush hills, wild flowers, olive groves and unspoilt villages that have remained untouched by mass tourism, providing walks that range from quiet strolls to more serious hikes.

Plaka is the ideal holiday destination for people looking for small a get-away from it all kinda place but still close enough to some action for the odd night out in places like Elounda and Aghios Nikolaos.

JOURNEY TIME
Heraklion Airport to Plakas is approx 71Kms (44miles ) - 1hr 25mins by taxi