Lake Voulismeni (Agios Nikolaos)

Lake Voulismeni lies right in the heart of Agios Nikolaos, the lively coastal town that serves as the capital of eastern Crete's Lasithi region. Almost perfectly round and ringed by cafes, tavernas and pastel buildings climbing the surrounding slopes, the lake is the town's defining landmark and natural focal point. A short channel cut to the adjacent harbour links it to the sea, so visitors can stroll in minutes from the bustling waterfront to the calmer, almost amphitheatre-like setting of the lake. The lake measures roughly 137 metres across and is unexpectedly deep for its small footprint, with measurements indicating a maximum depth of around 48 to 64 metres depending on the survey. For generations locals believed it to be bottomless, and a rich body of legend grew up around it. Some tales held that its waters connected through hidden underground channels to the volcano of Santorini, while others linked the dark depths to the underworld and to spirits. The notion of a bottomless lake was tested in 1853 when a British admiral took soundings and recorded a definite depth, puzzling the popular myths once and for all. Mythology weaves through the lake's story as well. According to local tradition the goddesses Athena and Artemis once bathed in its waters, lending the spot an air of the sacred. The lake also carries older, earthier names: it was once called Vromolimni, or stinking lake, because its stagnant water gave off an unpleasant smell, a problem solved in 1867 when the channel to the sea was opened and fresh water began to circulate. Today the lake is more about atmosphere than activity. Visitors come to walk the paved path that circles the water, watch small fishing boats and ducks, and settle into one of the many waterside cafes for a coffee or a long evening meal. The setting is especially attractive after dark, when lights from the tavernas reflect across the still surface and the town's social life spills out around the shore. Reaching the lake could not be simpler, as it sits at the centre of Agios Nikolaos within easy walking distance of the harbour, bus station and most of the town's hotels. The town is well connected by road and bus to Heraklion and to resorts along the northern coast. The lake suits relaxed sightseers, couples and families looking for a scenic, walkable base rather than a strenuous outing.