HERAKLIO- Tour to Panaghia Kera-Kritsa-Aghios Nikolaos-Elounda (with Lunch)

Leaving behind the vibrant City of Heraklio drive to the Byzantine Church of Panaghia Kera. The original aisleless church with cupola was built in the 13^th century and it was dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin. The other aisles were added in the next century and the church was repaired Today the church has three aisles and a cupola. The church is decorated with Frescoes dating in the 13^th  and 14^th  Century. The church’s iconographic programs are extremely interesting, starting with the archaic style in the first layer of frescoes and continuing with the Paleologan style in the latter.

Continue your tour by visiting the village of Kritsa which is located 8km in the southwest of Aghios Nikolaos. The area near the village has many attractrions to offer. It combines a traditional village setting with several Byzantine churches which rank among the best on the island.

Afterwards drive to Aghios Nikolaos. Aghios Nikolaos, with its long experience in the tourism industry, is an international and cosmopolitan resort that welcomes thousands of visitors annually. The lake is its most charming feature. Legend suggests that Athena and Armetis bathed in its waters. This lake is connected to the sea by a straight channel, while its natural surroundings of red rock and trees attract the visitor magnetically. There are bustling cafeterias, charming coffeehouses which you can visit during your stay of about 1 hour.

Leaving Aghios Nikolaos behind drive to Elounda. This is a world renowned tourism resort located to the north of Aghios Nikolaos, having an indented coastline, shaded beaches, crystal clear seas, and a tranquil and heavenly environment. It is 10km distance from Aghios Nikolaos, and the cutting along the side of the road affords you the opportunity to admire the spectacular view of Mirambello Gulf and Korfos. The peaceful sea of Elounda was used as a stop-over and refuelling point during the period between both world wars by the UK’s Imperial Hydroplane Service. In Elounda enjoy a delicious meal. After lunch drive back to Heraklio and your ship.