Agios Nikolaos Holidays
With a 'bottomless' lake and bags of charm to match, this is one of Crete's most popular and cosmopolitan resorts.
Affectionately known as 'Ag Nik', this lively resort has come a long way since just 95 inhabitants were listed on its electoral role in the early twentieth century. Now it's one of the island's most popular holiday hotspots, as well as being a busy working port. At the same time, it's managed to retain its relaxed, small town atmosphere and is gorgeously picturesque, with oodles of Greek charm, to boot. Built around a so-called 'bottomless' lake, linked to the sea by a narrow canal, the area around the lake is the most happening part of town, with vibrant cafes, restaurants and bars, bustling with chat and bouzouki music. You'll find an amazing choice of places to eat here, offering everything from traditional Greek dishes to Chinese. And there are also quite a few sightseeing highlights in the town. Visit the Folk Museum with its fascinating exhibits including icons, embroidery and stamps. Pop into the town's little namesake church, with its beautiful 9th century frescoes. And don't miss the Archaeological Museum, which has many artefacts from eastern Crete, including a 7th century bust that bears a striking resemblance to the famous explorer Christopher Columbus. If you're not much of a historian though, you'll still find plenty to occupy you from the atmospheric Wednesday morning market to taking a gentle stroll along the bustling marina. And when you want to kick back and relax, pad down to one Ag Nik's small, pebbly coves, or make the trip to nearby Istron, where the sand is cashmere-soft. Whatever you want to do, this sophisticated slice of Crete can't fail to impress.
The beach at Istron offers great sunbathing and swimming, while nearby Kalo Chorio gives you the chance to see the ancient fort at Vrokastro that dates back 1,000 years BC. Visit the Minoan Palace on the outskirts of Malia which dates back to the same era as Knossos - evocative ruins are superbly situated with wonderful views of the sea.
Click or flick through info on Crete and you really can't miss Aghios Nikolaos. Holidays here home-in on the most photographed spot on the island - the beautiful 'bottomless lake', lined with the parasols and pavement tables of pizzerias and popular cafe bars.
But holidays in Aghios Nikolaos are more than just people-watching evenings and promenade strolls. There are boat trips from a bustling little harbour - lined with shops and restaurants. There's a busy after-dark scene of lively music bars. Pebble beaches fill a clutch of coves in and around the town - many with various watersports. And Ag.Nik has every kind of eatery from fast food to fine food and typical taverna - where the mood is cheerful and the menu is cheap. Holidays in Aghios Nikolaos have lost none of their appeal … and the town has maintained its charm and good looks.
The resort's choice of styles is as broad as its range of visitors. Those looking for luxury will find it here - right at the water's edge at the Hotel Minos Beach. Families can enjoy fabulous views and fun activities for every age group on self-catering holidays at Candia Park Village Apartthotel. And for last minute holidays, couples could be quids-in with late deals to Aghios Nikolaos and its seafront surroundings.
Sit by the lake and sip your sundowner …and every time you see that photo, you can put yourself in the picture.