Agios Nikolaos

The area of Agios Nikolaos covers
a long stretch of the north eastern
coast and a hinterland that rises to
the tremendous rocky ranges of
the Dhikti mountains. The actual
town of Agios Nikolaos is the
administrative capital of the region
of Lassithi, and has a population
of around 10,000 people. Agios
Nikolaos became the first real
tourist resort in the early 1970's,
on the island, and was known for
being a noisy and lively resort.
Times have changed, and Agios
Nikolaos now enjoys the
reputation of being an upmarket
destination for many nationalities
and its romantic setting and lake
area make it a perfect place for
couples of all ages. There has
been much "beautifying" of the
town  in the past few years, and a
large well equipped marina has
been constructed. The marina
hosts many national and
international sailing competitions
and regattas in the summer
months and is a popular
destination for yachtsmen.

The town takes its name from the
small Byzantine church of Saint
Nicholas, situated on a small
peninsula near the Venetian
harbour called Mantraki. The
church is a beautiful example of
classic Byzantine architecture and
was built between the 7th and 9th
century, during the Iconoclastic
period. Many of the original
frescos decorate the interior. The
church is open to visitors all year
round. The town also houses an
archaeological museum, folklore
museum, cinema, and many
cultural events are held in the
summer months.

Legend has it that the Goddess
Athena once bathed in the lake
Voulismeni, the focal point of the
town. Today the lake is ringed by
tavernas and cafes, and has many
caiques, brightly painted
traditional fishing boats moored
around the edges.

Agios Nikolaos and the
surrounding area has more "Blue
Flag" beaches than anywhere in
Greece. The clear, crystal water is
perfect for snorkeling and
swimming and the beaches range
from long sandy beaches such as
Almyros, to small rocky coves
where
you can enjoy total solitude. The
nearby resort of Istron has three
wonderful beaches and is only a
short distance from the town by
car or bus. When weather
conditions permit Istron, Kalo
Horio is also a popular wind
surfing destination.
Istron is a  small resort 9km from
the centre of Agios Nikolaos.
Istron still holds the feel of a
traditional village and has some of
the best sandy beaches in the
area. The
villages of Kalo Chorio and Pirgos
lead up to a mountain back drop
and enjoy fabulous views of sea
and mountain ranges. There are
many wonderful walking trails to
be found around this area.
Mantraki  Holiday Apartment Reservations Service
In Agios Nikolaos & Elounda, Crete, Greece
original content © SCH 2006
Holiday apartments for rental available summer and winter in
Agios Nikolaos & Elounda, Crete, Greece

Agios Nikolaos
The Heartbeat of Crete

The area around Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, on the North Eastern point of Crete is one of
outstanding natural beauty and has been a firm favorite with thousands of visitors for many
years. We at Mantraki Apartment Reservation Service would like to offer you the opportunity
to spend your holiday in one of our hand picked accommodations in this magical area. Please
click on the following link to view our selection of apartments and studios available for rent.



Many airlines now fly to Heraklion Airport from the UK and all over Europe, and ferries sail
daily from Athens into both Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. You will find a selection of flight and
ferry links on our Flights and Ferries to Crete page.
Car hire and private airport transfers can also be arranged upon request to collect you at the
airport and take you to your chosen accommodation. Arranging your own holiday to suit your
personal needs has never been so easy. If you require any further information regarding your
holiday or would like any assistance, please feel free to contact us at our office by email
info@mantraki.com , or call us on (0030) 28410 24101 and talk with one of our experienced
sales team.

Please enjoy our site, and we very much look forward to hearing from you.
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