The road from Elounda continues following the coastline to the north to the small village at the end of the peninsula, called Plaka. Plaka has good quality fish restaurants near the sea and small hotels and tavernas. It is situated in the beautiful Bay of Mirabello. The distance to Elounda is about 5 kilometres and it has a connection to this village by bus (not very frequent though, about 2 or 3 times a day). The distance to the town of Agios Nikolaos is about twelve kilometres. Over the last years Plaka has become more of a tourist spot and the number of restaurants and souvenir shops has increased quite dramatically after a new large hotel complex has been built on the hill south of the original village.

The beaches in Plaka are small and with big pebbles, but relatively uncrowded and for some they will be much more pleasant than those at Elounda. It is not too difficult to get into the sea. The beach on the east side is called Agia Marina and it is named after a nearby Byzantine church and cemetery. Next to the cemetery there is a small path leading to the beach. On the west side of the village you find Plaka beach, where tamarisk trees give you some shade.

Plaka has the small island of Spinalonga directly in front (or actually "Kalidon islet", but it is called Spinalonga by almost everybody). On the island of Kalidon is the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga. The island was used as a leper colony and hospital in the first part of the 20th century, and Plaka was especially built to bring goods and people to the island. There is a small pier in the village of Plaka where fishermen are willing to ferry you across to see the ruins. There are also organized boat trips from Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.

The village of Plaka is still pretty authentic and less touristy than for example Agios Nikolaos or adjacent Elounda, but in recent years Plaka has more developed into a destination for luxury holidays. There are also quite a number of luxury (and sometimes expensive) villas with private pool for rent in and around the village.

For all apartments, studios, hotels en private villas in Plaka - click here.

Restaurant Thalassa is situated in the seaside village of Plaka near Elounda. In our view the appearance had just a bit more class than the other restaurants in the village. There are many fish dishes on the menu, pastas with different kinds of fish, grilled meat and lots of different salads. We try the seabass and the spaghetti with salmon and capers. The grilled fish comes with a dish of rice and grilled vegetables with balsamic vinegar. Everything we try tastes delicious, including the house wine.

Our verdict: a 9,5 out of 10

Aituated only 100 metres away from Plaka's beach, Athina offers accommodation with well-equipped kitchenette and free Wi-Fi throughout. Within a few metres, guests can reach a mini market, bars, taverns and a bus stop. Athina Villas have a balcony, some enjoying views to the Cretan Sea and the island of Spinalonga. Each unit has a dining area, where guests can enjoy their meal. Other facilities include a satellite TV, air conditioning and safe.

An array of outdoor activities such as cycling and diving can be arranged upon charge. Massage treatment and laundry services are provided at extra charge. The seaside town of Agios Nikolaos is 10 km away, while the popular resort of Elounda is at 5 km. The port to Spinalonga is 30 metres away. Free parking is available near the property.

Check availabilities and prices & book Athina Villas - click here.