Xionodromika

Lasithi: Exotic beauty

Lasithi

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Λασίθι, Κρήτη
Hotels Lasithi

The prefecture of Lasithi is one of the 4 prefectures in Crete. It occupies the eastern part of the island of Crete. It borders to the west with the prefecture of Heraklio, while its other sides border to the Cretan Sea on the north, the Carpathion Sea on the west and the Libyan Sea on the south.

Although its land is mostly mountainous, with the mountain range of Dikti dominating the western side of the prefecture, Lasithi also boasts great sandy beaches and little picturesque bays.

Due to the diversity of the landscape, the visitor is never bored. One can walk along the quiet, little streets of picturesque villages, have fun in the throbbing with life tourist destinations, swim in cosmopolitan or secluded beaches and admire the amazing natural sights of the area.

Lasithi map

The archaeological sites, the picturesque plateau with the wind mills, the clear blue water of the sea, the long summertime and the blinding sun are the main poles of tourist attraction.

Lasithi Attractions

In Agios Nikolaos, the seat of the prefecture, you can enjoy the sights of the town and tour its archaeological sites.

In the very centre of the town is the Voulismeni lake, a little lagoon local people simply refer to as “Limni” (lake). Local legends say that the goddesses Athena and Artemis used to bathe in its water. Above the lake there is a small pine tree grove from where you can enjoy the view to the town. The marina of Agios Nikolaos is a popular starting point for sailing races.

Agios Nikolaos has an Archaeological Museum housing findings of the Minoan and historical times, and a Folk Art Museum. Do not omit to visit the little islands of Agii Pantes and Pharos, which, despite being very close to each other, have developed different kinds of fauna and flora. On the island of Agii Pantes have been moved Cretan wild goats (also know as “Kri Kri”), to ensure the purity of the species is preserved.

The visit to Vai beach with the only palm tree grove in Europe, is also something you shouldn’t miss. The combination of the enchanting beach with the palm trees create an exotic setting.

8,5 nautical miles south of Ierapetra lies the island Chryssi or “Gaidouronissi” with an African character. Its golden sandy beach, the yellow-green cedar trees and many traces of the Minoan civilization, attract the visitors.

Other areas of the prefecture with points of interest and archaeological sites are: Zakros, Kritsa, Milatos, Spinaloga.

In the prefecture of Lasithi you have a choice of beautiful beaches: You can swim and enjoy water sports in the crystal clear waters of Myrtos, Ierapetra, Agia Fotia, Makriyialos, Pachia Ammos, Paleokastro, Ammoudara and Elunda.

The area will surprise you with its intense contrasts, the popular beach destinations and the traditional Cretan hospitality.

How to get there

By air: By plane from Athens to Siteia, where there is the airport of Lasithi. The prefecture is also served by the airport of Heraklio prefecture.

Coastally: There are daily time-tables from Piraeus to ports of Agios Nikolaos and Siteia. In summer months, Siteia and Agios Nikolaos are linked to Dodecanese and Cyclades.

Lasithi Photos

Lasithi Useful Telephone Numbers (Calling code for Greece 0030)

Agios Nikolaos Municipality
 28410 82681
Piraeus Port Authority
 210 4226000
Sitia Municipality
 28430 25850, 22271
Sitia Airport
 28430 24666
Agios Nikolaos Hospital
 28410 25221
Heraklio Airport
 2810 337311
Agios Nikolaos Police Station
 28410 22251
Eleftherios Venizelos Airport
 210 3530000
Agios Nikolaos Tourist Police
 28410 26900
Agios Nikolaos Bus Station
 28410 32224
Agios Nikolaos Traffic Police
 28410 22750
Knossos Archaeological Place
 2810 231940
Agios Nikolaos Port Authority
 28410 22312
Gortynas Archaeological Place
 28920 31144
Sitia Port Authority
 28430 22310
Festos Archaeological Plac
 28920 42315

 



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