South of Agios Nikolaos, just 2.5km from the city center, lies Almyros beach, with its name associated with the homonymous river that flows into the spot. It is an organized beach offering all the comforts, while the excellent quality sand is ideal for summer moments of relaxation and tranquility.
The 360-meter long and 25-meter wide beach has an eastern orientation, with waters deepening smoothly. It can be accessed by road along the coastal road of Agios Nikolaos, and by public transport. The beach is organized and boasts all amenities, such as toilets, showers, umbrellas, and sunbeds, while sports activities and rental of motorized marine equipment are also available. Guests can enjoy the services of several snack bars, restaurants and hotel accommodation.
A wetland of significant value
In the same area, at the end of the river, lies the wetland of Almyros, characterized by rich vegetation and a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is regarded a truly special location in the region of Eastern Crete. This is a swampy 12-acre area that is permanently supplied with brackish water from karst springs, with an average annual flow of about 2,000 liters per second.
Most of the demarcated area is occupied by reed beds of the Phragmites Australis species. There are also Mediterranean salt marshes with bulrush and tamarisk trees. In the coastal part, we find the sea lily. Almyros provides food, shelter, and ideal growing conditions for several species of fauna, mainly birds, while ducks, herons and gulls appear all year round. The wetland is also a place of rest and supply for migratory birds during the spring and autumn migration.
Ammoudara
Ammoudara beach is located some 5km south of the city of Agios Nikolaos, on the road to Sitia and Ierapetra. An organized sandy beach, Ammoudara offers amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and water sports. Not far, you can enjoy taverns, restaurants, bars, hotels, rooms to let, but also luxury villas with private pools. Ammoudara beach is awarded a blue flag and attracts both locals and visitors, as part of a short list of options.
Cave of the Robber
Another outstanding beach in the area is the Spilia tou Listi (Cave of the Robber), located between Tsoutsouros and Kastri, near Ammoudara and Almyros. The crystal clear azure waters of the Aegean are the ideal destination for peace and relaxation seekers, away from crowded organized beaches. The beach ideally combines coarse sand with large rocks.
On the east side of the beach is a small spring with drinking water. This is the exact spot the famous Cave of the Robber is located. According to local legend, here was the gate of the underworld. Surely, the drinking water was attractive to robbers and pirates who found a hospitable refuge there, hence its name.
Read also:
Glyka Nera: Hidden bay in Crete’s south, deep-blue waters, fresh-water springs
Two beaches in one -Domata, the secluded beach of southwest Crete
