Domes Aulūs Elounda

The scenic fishing village of Elounda brings together comforts and tradition and enjoys fantastic weather, with almost 3000 hours of sunshine per year.

Across the water, the mysterious islet of Spinalonga is the stuff of legends. From ancient fortification to a medieval fortress, Cretan War shelter, and later leper colony, its paved winding streets, and listed houses now stand empty until visited by enthusiastic travelers eager to uncover the secrets described in Victoria Hislop’s bestselling novel. The rocky islet has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outstanding value thanks to its amalgamation of architectural remains from different eras, diverse cultural influences, and long, tumultuous history. Don’t miss a visit to Spinalonga when you stay with us!

This island of proud, life-loving men and women has an unmistakable energy that every visitor can sense from the moment they step foot on it. You can discover it in every one of the myriad mountain or seaside villages where time stands still, as well as in the bigger towns buzzing with activity.

Very near to Elounda, Agios Nikolaos is the regional capital – a gorgeous seaside town where you can see the fascinating Voulismeni sweetwater lagoon, discover sculptures of ancient mythology, visit several Instagram-worthy churches and monasteries, satisfy your curiosity in museums, and much more. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for even more connection to Cretan culture, ask us to arrange a visit to a traditional village or a farm for you, or even hop into a car and set out on an adventure. From a shot of strong raki to traditional festivals in the village square, Crete will make you fall in love with it in so many ways. Not to mention the fantastic coastline, filled with sandy beaches and coves. Here, every picture is a postcard.

In fact, the name Europe itself comes from a local fable about a beautiful woman the god Zeus fell in love with. Such was his passion that he transformed into a bull and abducted her, carrying her off on his back from Lebanon to Crete, and giving her name to our continent.

But palpable history is just as exciting, if not more. Easily accessible from the hotel by car, the ancient city of Knossos is where real-life King Minos ruled from his palace all the way back in 4000 BC. A late Bronze Age civilization that flourished from the 27th to the 15th century BC, Minoans were mind-blowingly advanced, with multi-floor buildings, intricate art, strong social bonds… and even the Labyrinth – no, not “a” labyrinth but the actual place that gave us the word: an elaborate underground maze that, according to the stories, was the home of the Minotaur and the creation of Daedalus and Icarus. Even closer to the hotel, the sunken ancient city of Olous (Aulūs) was once home to 30,000 Minoans and can still be seen under Elounda Bay when the tide is low. Why not let us arrange a scuba diving adventure in its waters for you and your partner?