Lassithi Crete Holidays
The county of Lassithi is the most eastern county of Crete, and the landscape is a perfect combination of sea and mountain, as well as the stunning Lassithi plains, a truly magical and unique area located amongst the mountains.
There are some very popular holiday and vacation destinations found in the county of Lassithi including the capital town of Agios Nikolaos, the party resort of Malia, the popular Elounda resort, as well as the town of Sitia, and the famous palm tree beach of Vai.
The land here in Lassithi is amongst the most fertile in Crete and agriculture is a very large industry in the county, especially for potatoes and apples. There is also a growing banana industry on the island as well, with many banana plantations along the southern part of the country.
The capital of Lassithi is the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, which has held the role of capital town since 1904. Agios Nikolaos is a very cosmopolitan town, yet completely retains its unique charm and appearance. Along the coast are a variety of cafes and bars where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.
The circular lake in the centre of the town is called Voulismeni, and is a very popular tourist attraction. According to mythology, the godess Athena used to bathe in the lake. The lake has a depth over 60 meters and since 1870, has connected with the sea via a channel along which you will find a variety of fishing and tour boats.
From the top of the hill that is situated along the back of the lake, you can enjoy some wonderful panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area. Though the walk up might be a little challenging to some, it is definitely worth the effort.
All visitors to the county of Lassithi should try and stop by the town of Agios Nikolaos. There are some very interesting places here to visit, as well as a nice selection of tavernas and restaurants where you can enjoy a tasty meal.
To the north of Agios Nikolaos is the beautiful coastal resort of Elounda. If you ever hope to bump into a star of Hollywood or a world famous musician, the resort of Elounda is the most likely place for that to happen. The resort if one of great charm and beauty, and there are some wonderful beaches all along the coast. With some spectacular hotels and private houses and villas, Elounda has a touch of elegance about it.
The backdrop of the mountains and the blue waters of the sea make it a very beautiful place to visit. Across the water from Elounda is the rocky islet of Spinalonga. Previously operating as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957, this unique islet was renamed in 1954 to Kalydonia, though today it is still referred to by it’s original name.
There are boat trips available to the islet where you can take a walk around before heading back on the boat. Spinalonga is also the setting for the popular novel “The Island” by Victoria Hislop.
One of the most famous beaches on Crete is located on the north eastern coast of Lassithi. The beach of Vai is famous for the hundreds of palm trees that line the beach and the route to it. The palm trees create a very tropical setting, and make the beach completely unique when compared to others on the island.
According to myth, the palm trees can be attributed to the Phoenicians, who called by here and threw away the pips from the dates that they would eat. The beach is very beautiful and one that every visitor to this part of Crete should pay a visit to if they have the chance.
One popular destination for travelers is to the Diktaean Cave, which according to mythology was the birthplace of Zeus. This stunning underground cave is one that is simply amazing to visit. The stalagmites and stalactites that have formed in the cave create a truly magical setting. If you visit this cave during the summer months, upon descending, you will feel the temperature drop dramitcally, as though someone has turned on a powerful air condition unit.
Another part of the county that you should try and see is the Lassithi plateau. This simply wonderful plateau consists of 12 small communities. Driving along the peaceful roads, you can still see some of the many white water mills that we in operation years ago for water irrigation. Though many have been left to ruins, there are still several that have stood through the test of time, and today still rotate when they pick up a gust of wind.
The county of Lassithi is one that offers much to those who visit. From the magical sandy and clear beaches, to the various coastal resorts and towns, there is something for everyone. If possible, it is well worth renting a car or bike, and exploring some of the regions of this wonderful part of Crete – you will not be disappointed with what you find.