Dianne & Andy
We came to Agios Nikolaos in early Autumn last year. As a couple, we avoid going on holidays in July-August and tend to be drawn towards alternatives related to well-being, relaxation and rejuvenation of body and mind. What draw our attention at first was the area’s unique topography that features numerous coves, secluded beaches and mountains. Later on, however, we read about specialized spa treatments provided by the area’s hotels, alternative excursions and the particular microclimate of the area even during relatively colder months.
We were really impressed as soon as we arrived. The first thing we did was to visit the hotel spa. Experienced and trained professionals created an exclusive program just for us in a place of exceptional beauty and harmony. We received high-level services combined with exclusive rejuvenation and relaxation treatments. What better way to start our vacation?
We were also lucky enough to find information on yoga sessions that were taking place in a nearby ancient temple (Temple of Aphrodite and Mars). We spent a wonderful afternoon in an amazing place. All trainers were very friendly and highly skilled. We returned to our hotel very satisfied.
On the following day we explored the clear blue waters of the bay and enjoyed the warm sea on a hidden beach. It was just us, the sea and the clear blue sky. We stayed until late in the afternoon to watch the colours of the sunset. We had already thought that the unique topography of the area would offer us a chance to relax and enjoy our privacy. That’s exactly how it was!
We decided to go on a day trip to the southern part of the prefecture and we visited the areas close to Ierapetra where we found beaches with natural clay. We did not miss the opportunity for a therapeutic massage. We walked on the beach covered with clay‼
We knew that the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest and most developed civilizations, had flourished in Crete. We had to visit the palace of Knossos in Heraklion. It was just a 50-min drive away. Visiting the palace was a breathtaking experience, so was the Heraklion Archaeological Museum which is one of the most important archaeological museums in the world.
The hinterland of Agios Nikolaos municipality is full of small traditional villages with wonderful cafés and taverns. We made a trip to the nearby villages of Kritsa and Kroustas, went up (in just 40 minutes!) to the plateau of Katharo and enjoyed wonderful dishes of the famous Cretan cuisine based on organic local products, fruits and vegetables in a detox, vegetarian and vegan-friendly feast.
One day before our departure we went hiking to the gorge of Skinias which ends at a wonderful isolated beach. We also learned about canoeing, canyoning and sea kayaking groups that operate in the area. They are in our “must do” list for our next visit‼ Next time we will definitely go mountain biking as the area has several demarcated mountain routes.
We were utterly satisfied by our stay in Agios Nikolaos, we will definitely come again!
