Agios Nikolaos
This small Cretan town can be found on the east coast of Crete on the Mirabelo Bay, approximately 1 hr from Heraklion. To be precise it's 64 km away. It's name is derived from the local Byzantine Church and the whole town is surrounded by three hills so be prepared for some "up and down" walking.
It boasts three outlets to the sea; namely the Marina, the Lake and port and Kitroplatia Beach. For boat lovers the Marina is an enviable sight and is home to a plethora of yachts ranging from basic to luxurious. The town centre itself is staged around the highlight of Agios Nikolaos, this being the salt water lake which is strategically placed next to the sea and yet central to the town. A short waterway separates the lake and sea and is passable via a small wooden bridge.
There are so many folklore stories relating to this lake and it's deep secrets, ranging from being a secret hiding place for the Germans during the Second World War to mythology where it is alleged the Goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed.One thing is for sure, it is said to be bottom-less and it certainly looks this way; even being called "Voulismeni" meaning sunken, but the local ducks seem to love it anyway!!
Arriving in the town the lake seems far off in the deep distance but there is a flight of steps leading down to the lake and after a few minutes you can be in the hustle and bustle of the town centre. The lake itself is circled by many cafeterias offering snacks or just a refreshing drink. Of course, for something more substantial traditional restaurants can be found dotted around the area.
Kitroplatia Beach
This is a small organised beach just a short walk from the town centre. Clear waters, clean sand, a choice of umbrellas and sun loungers, what more could you want? A quick escape from the town centre offering relaxation and a dip in the refreshing waters.
Spinalonga
As mentioned before, the town has its own harbour and from here there are ferries coming and going all day. One most important port of call is of course to the small island of Spinalonga. Small only in size because it certainly has an abundance of history; first being an old Venetian fortress and then in the 20th century when it was utilized as a leper colony. It's recognition became world-wide with the popular TV series (The Island) based on the book by Victoria Hislop. Agios Nickolaos itself was the setting for many films, including the TV series, "The Lotus Eaters". For lovers of fiction, it was the inspiration and setting for the book "Not After Midnight" which is a selection of five short stories by the famous Daphne Du Maurier.
Shopping and museums
The town centre of Agios Nicholaos could be considered something of a shoppers paradise. The paved streets are brimming with outlets offering everything from hand crafted gifts using authentic materials to fashion, jewellery and even furs.
Not to be lacking in museums, the town offers an archaeological museum exhibiting items found on the eastern part of the island. Additionally, there is a Folklore museum which is like taking a step back in history with a model of a traditional Cretan house and displays of traditional handicrafts, textiles etc. All in all, Agios Nikolaos offers the feel of a small town, is easy to get around and provides a good day out.
How to get there.
From Heraklion on the national road moving eastwards. There is of course a bus network but this will add valuable time to your journey. Taking a car or motorbike you can be there in one hour and this allows you the luxury of taking a "pit stop" to enjoy the many views on the way. Certainly, on the way back I would recommend taking the road to Plaka. This is the small fishing village facing out to the island of Spinalonga. A real treat as the sun goes down!