Elounda is a small fishing town on the Elounda Bay, on the island of Crete.
It is popular with European tourists and has several luxurious hotels.
Elounda is also the closest major town to the former leper colony of Spinalonga. The small island of Spinalonga sits in the entrance of the bay and has a Venetian fortress built in the 16th century.
The town is close to the city of Aghios Nikolaos and the village of Plaka (Lassithi).
Elounda is the self-proclaimed "most luxurious resort" in Greece. It is home to many luxury 5-star hotels as well as budget accommodation.
Most of the major luxury hotels are located out of town, set in their own grounds.
Many bars and restaurants can be found in Elounda, supporting and supported by the growing tourist industry there. Elounda was used for the filming of the popular BBC television series Who Pays the Ferryman? in the late 1970s.
The beach of Elounda is a good stretch of grey sand and shingle with plenty of water sport facilities and waterside tavernas.
It is popular for swimming and especially snorkelling, with clear water, hidden coves and the attraction of Olous, an underwater ancient city.
Holidays in Elounda can take advantage of three more sandy beaches in Damnoni which are close to hand and offer more isolation and privacy.
The whole area is a particularly scenic setting for magical holidays and although this former fishing village has grown to become an established favourite Crete holiday destination, it still possesses a certain relaxed charm and an attractive mix of facilities, old and modern areas, and a vibrant square and busy appealing harbour.
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