Mirabello Bay's Kolokythia Hike
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Port
Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greece
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$350
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
The day’s adventure begins with a short drive north from Agios Nikolaos to the resort town of Elounda to embark on a local caique or traditional boat. Then, sail to a pristine beach for a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Mirabello Bay before continuing to Kolokytha Isle.
Once on Kolokytha, rejoin your 4x4 vehicle and follow the rugged trail up the hill to capture sweeping views across the bay.
Although referred to as being an islet, Kolokytha is in fact a peninsula with a narrow strip of land joining it to mainland Crete. Begin the hike, first across this natural causeway and then through the coastal salt pans. It was during the period of the Venetian Republic’s supremacy and its occupation of Crete that these salt pans were established. Dating back to the 15th C, large stone-walled squares were built along the shore creating shallow pools that trapped sea water until it evaporated leaving behind the valuable salt. Today, the salt pans are a frequent stop for migrating birds on their journey to warmer climates.
Time then for a well-earned respite at a local taverna for a casual lunch of tasty island delicacies before returning to Agios Nikolaos.
Once on Kolokytha, rejoin your 4x4 vehicle and follow the rugged trail up the hill to capture sweeping views across the bay.
Although referred to as being an islet, Kolokytha is in fact a peninsula with a narrow strip of land joining it to mainland Crete. Begin the hike, first across this natural causeway and then through the coastal salt pans. It was during the period of the Venetian Republic’s supremacy and its occupation of Crete that these salt pans were established. Dating back to the 15th C, large stone-walled squares were built along the shore creating shallow pools that trapped sea water until it evaporated leaving behind the valuable salt. Today, the salt pans are a frequent stop for migrating birds on their journey to warmer climates.
Time then for a well-earned respite at a local taverna for a casual lunch of tasty island delicacies before returning to Agios Nikolaos.