Milatos Cave – Spinalonga – Agios Nikolaos Road Trip. East Crete Coastal Route

Milatos Cave
The tour begins with Milatos Cave, an impressive natural complex featuring several entrances and a series of interconnected chambers divided by natural stone columns. The cave extends for approximately 200 meters, offering an easy walking path along a rocky trail that allows visitors to explore its interior without difficulty. Inside, the cool atmosphere, textured rock formations, and natural light filtering through openings create a striking and atmospheric environment. Outside the cave, panoramic views of the surrounding Cretan landscape further enhance the experience, making it a memorable combination of geology and natural scenery.

 

Plaka Village
Next is Plaka, a small and authentic seaside village located directly on the shores of Mirabello Bay. With its quiet atmosphere, traditional tavernas, and coastal charm, Plaka offers a relaxed contrast to more developed tourist centers. From the village harbor, visitors can take a short boat trip to the famous island of Spinalonga, historically known as the former leper colony. The boat ride typically costs around €10, while entrance to the fortress on the island is approximately €20. Spinalonga remains one of Crete’s most visited historical sites, combining Venetian architecture with powerful historical narratives.

 

SPINALONGA
A picturesque island fortress off the coast of Crete with a rich history. It was once a Venetian stronghold, later home to Turkish settlements, and eventually became the last leper colony in Europe. Today, it is one of the island’s most popular excursions, where ancient walls, turquoise waters, and a dramatic past create a truly unique atmosphere. Boat ticket: €12. Entrance to the fortress: €20 per person.

 

Agios Nikolaos
The final stop is Agios Nikolaos, a charming coastal town with a rich history and a distinctive setting around Lake Voulismeni. The lake, which reaches a depth of 64 meters, lies at the heart of the town and is surrounded by cafés, tavernas, and a lively promenade. Agios Nikolaos is also known for hosting professional cliff diving competitions every September, where athletes perform dramatic dives from 16-meter cliffs into the lake during the Agios Nikolaos Cliff Diving event. The combination of urban elegance, natural beauty, and vibrant seaside culture makes the town one of the most attractive destinations in eastern Crete.