 Suspended in the calm waters of the Gulf of Mirabello opposite the village of Plaka, tiny Spinalonga Island is one of the most evocative sights in Eastern Crete, its former leper colony adding poignancy to the magical beauty of this unique spot. From Elounda's harbour, regular day-trips by caique depart to the island, but staying at the Spinalonga Village, you hardly need to make the effort, for true to its name, this cluster of stone cottages boasts such fabulous views of the island that you almost feel like you could reach out across the narrow straits to touch its hauntingly beautiful, crumbling buildings. Although far from crumbling, the single-storey buildings that make up the Spinalonga Village exude a timeless charm that complements this idyllic scene perfectly. Built entirely from natural stone and local timber, they blend handsomely into their rural surroundings just outside the small fishing and farming village of Plaka. The bustling harbour village of Elounda is just 4 km away, but with only 17 studios and suites, the Spinalonga Village is a far cry from the larger, more impersonal hotels found in the resort.
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