While Crete’s northern coast is popular with holidaymakers, the island’s easternmost region also has plenty to offer. The Lassithi region is known for its pleasant year-round temperatures, and its golden beaches. This is an ideal destination if you’re looking to get away from Crete’s party atmosphere. Check out the upmarket harbour towns, and tiny hamlets busting with traditional Greek tavernas.
Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lassithi area. This pretty harbour town is surrounded by a group of small sandy beaches, and is a great place for shoppers looking to pick up some local produce like olive oil. But the highlight of Agios Nikolaos is definitely Lake Voulismeni. This 137-metre circular lake, located right in the town centre, is bathed in Greek legend. It's the focal point for annual community events.
Located on the coast of the Mirabello Bay, the small town of Elounda is one of the most popular places to stay in the Lassithi area. It’s famous for being the setting of not one but two novels, Belinda Jones’ Out of the Blue, and Victoria Hislop’s The Island. Families love Elounda as the town is so compact and easy to navigate. The shops of the main square are just moments from the beachside cafés and bars.
Just a 15-minute boat ride from Elounda is Spinalonga. A former leper colony, this old Venetian island is uninhabited, offering a chance to really get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The waters around the island are shallow, making them excellent for family swims. You can also relax on the small pebble beaches, or take a walk around the ruins of the historic 16th-century Venetian fortress.