Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
ISTRON'S DREAMY BEACHES
A short drive southeast of Agios Nikolaos, the highway enters a superbly panor-
amic stretch where the raw beauty of the coastal mountains spills down to a
craggy coastline indented with coves shimmering softly in myriad shades of blue
and green. Tourism development has been kept at bay for now, in part because of
archaeological excavations near the village of Istron, which is also home to a trio of
stunning, well-organised beaches.
First up is
Karavostasi
, a half-kilometre-long strip of fine sand, where a snack bar
serves refreshments. A footpath around a big rock leads to the second beach of
St
Panteleimon
, named for a small chapel built into the hill above it. Tamarisk and olive
trees provide some shade along with umbrellas and sun chairs (€7).
Top billing, though, goes to
Vulisme
beach, aka Golden Beach, a clean, sweeping
crescent whose tepid, shallow waters and white sand exude a distinct Caribbean
feel. Unfortunately, it can get awfully busy in summer. A concession stand rents jet
skis and paddleboats and there's a cafeteria as well.
Up to 14 buses daily travel from Agios Nikolaos to Istron (€1.60, 30 minutes).
Mohlos Μόχλος
POP 90
At the end of a narrow road winding past massive quarries, tranquil Mohlos (
moh
-los) is
an off-the-radar gem along Crete's northern shore. In this authentic fishing village time
moves as gently as the waves lapping onto the pebble-and-grey-sand beach. There's little
to do but relax and soak in the peacefulness.
Mohlos was once a thriving Early Minoan community and connected to the small is-
land that is now 200m offshore. Swimmers should be wary of strong currents.
Sleeping & Eating
Bellavista Apartments
APARTMENTS $
( 6976578655; apt €35-40; )
Splashed in fresh colours and decorated with ori-
ginal paintings by the mother of charismatic owner Katia, these spacious studios are a
wonderful find. All have full kitchens and balcony views of Mohlos Island.
Mohlos Mare
APARTMENTS $$$
