A unique and bustling seaside town
The bustling seaside town of Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lassithi province and has about 10,000 inhabitants. It was named after the small Byzantine Church of Saint Nikolaos, which has been carefully preserved.
Situated on the North West side of the Bay of Mirabello, which is the largest bay in Crete, the once a small fishing village has grown up around the harbour and picturesque lake and is now a popular holiday destination for all nationalities. In the summer months it has a truly international and cosmopolitan feel, while still retaining its sense of identity.
The Lake is linked to the sea by a narrow canal and crossed by a small bridge and is surrounded by small cliffs of red rock upon which grow trees, plants and flowers. Tavernas, restaurants, bars and cafes surround the Lake and during the season many events are held upon the lakeside stage. Easter at midnight on Saturday at the Lake is not to be missed.
The Harbour is the starting point for many boat trips as well as year round scheduled ferry services to Sitia, Pireus and other Greek islands. Cruise liners also moor here for their passengers to disembark and enjoy everything the town has to offer.
A well equipped Marina is a haven for many colourful yachts and boats and is busy throughout the year.
Two small islands situated at the entrance to the port and home to several protected species, such as the Kri Kri wild goats, complete this attractive seascape.
Aghios Nikolaos contains everything for the holiday maker and the permanent resident. There is a large hospital, medical centres, dentists, doctors and schools. As well as an amazing selection of tavernas, restaurants, bars, cafes and discos there are two cinemas – an open-air one for the summer and a closed cinema for the winter, which also hosts theatre events, shows and discussion groups.
For dedicated shoppers the town will not let them down. Boutiques, famous names, crafts, books, supermarkets, specialist food shops, herbs, spices, a health shop and well stocked chemists and beauty shops.
The town has several managed beaches plus other swimming areas, water sports and private sports clubs and gyms. Additionally the golf club at Hersonissos about 40 kms distance and of course all the ‘free’ activities such as walking, hiking, birdwatching, botany, painting and so on, are either within walking distance or easily accessible.
The town museum has a good collection of archeological finds and during the summer there are also art and photography exhibitions at the town gallery and around the town.
To and from Aghios Nikolaos, the road infrastructure is excellent. The capital city and airport at Heraklion are less than an hour’s drive. Villages such as Kritsa, Istron, Elounda and the towns of Ierapetra, Sitia and Neapolis are easily reached by bus and car.
PROPERTIES IN THE AREA
