A Journey to Agios Nikolaos: A Step Back in Time

As the train gently rolled into the station, I felt a familiar thrill of anticipation. This time, however, my journey would not be by rail, but by bus and boat, as I embarked on a day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island. The morning sun cast a golden hue over the landscape, reminiscent of the many sunrises I had witnessed from the window of a train carriage. The meeting point was conveniently close to my hotel, a mere five-minute stroll, and soon I found myself aboard a comfortable coach, ready to explore the northeastern part of Crete.

Our first stop was the enchanting town of Agios Nikolaos, a place that seemed to have stepped out of a postcard. With 90 minutes to explore, I wandered through its charming streets, admiring the sculptures and the serene sea lake. The town’s beauty was undeniable, though I noted the many stairs leading to some of the best views, a challenge for those less mobile. As I strolled along, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the quaint European towns I had visited by train, each with its own unique charm and history.

Elounda: A Taste of the Sea

After our time in Agios Nikolaos, a short coach ride brought us to Elounda, a former fishing village now known for its luxurious hotels. Here, we had just over an hour to explore the harbor and enjoy a leisurely lunch. I chose a delightful little eatery called Fresco, where the Greek fast food was both delicious and reasonably priced. The atmosphere was lively, with the gentle sea breeze carrying the scent of the ocean, much like the coastal towns I had visited during my rail journeys.

As I savored my meal, I reflected on the joy of slow travel, of taking the time to truly experience a place rather than rushing through it. Elounda, with its spectacular views across Mirabello Bay, was a testament to the beauty of taking things at a leisurely pace. It reminded me of the many times I had sat in a train dining car, watching the world go by as I enjoyed a meal.

Spinalonga Island: A Walk Through History

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the visit to Spinalonga Island. As our boat set sail, I was captivated by the stunning views of the coastline, the azure waters glistening in the sunlight. The journey was reminiscent of the scenic train routes I had traveled, where each turn revealed a new vista more breathtaking than the last.

Upon reaching the island, we had 90 minutes to explore its historical sites. The island’s past as a leper colony added a poignant layer to its beauty, and I found myself lost in thought as I wandered its uneven paths. The lack of shade made for a hot walk, but the experience was well worth it. As I explored, I was reminded of the many historical sites I had visited across Europe, each with its own story to tell.

After our exploration, the boat anchored in a tranquil spot between the island and Elounda harbor, offering us the chance to swim in the deep turquoise waters. It was a refreshing end to a day filled with history and beauty, much like the moments of relaxation I had enjoyed on long train journeys, where the rhythm of the rails lulled me into a peaceful reverie.

As we made our way back to the harbor, I felt a sense of contentment, much like the feeling of returning home after a long journey by train. This day trip had been a perfect blend of relaxation and history, a reminder of the joys of slow travel and the beauty of taking the time to truly experience a place. I returned to my hotel with a heart full of memories, eager to share my experiences with fellow travelers who, like me, cherish the romance of travel.