SPINALONGA: DRIVING TO THE ISLAND OF THE LIVING DEAD

If you decide to hire a car in Heraklion, dset your sights on exploring the magic of Eastern Crete, which the RentCar.gr team fully recommends!With your rental car, you’ll need less than an hour to reach Elounda. From there, boats depart every 30 minutes to Spinalonga Island, also known as the Island of the Lepers.

The island's tragic past dates back to 1903 when it was chosen as a leper colony, isolating those afflicted by the so-called cursed disease. For 60 years, lepers from all over Greece were sent to Spinalonga, living as outcasts while waiting for their fate. The last inhabitant left in 1962, after the cure for leprosy was discovered.Spinalonga gained international fame through the bestselling novel "The Island" by Victoria Hislop, which was later adapted into a successful TV series. Today, Spinalonga is the second most visited attraction in Crete, following Knossos Palace.

Beyond Spinalonga, make sure to visit Plaka, the picturesque fishing village directly opposite the island. A five-minute by car from Elounda. Plaka is home to the best seafood taverns in the area. This charming and peaceful village offers a glimpse into the authentic side of Crete. No need to worry about the kilometers limits, with RentCar.gr, every rental car includes unlimited kilometers with no hidden fees! 
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