Nestled at the heart of the Cyclades, Naxos, the largest island in the group, spans 429.8 km² and hosts 20,000 residents, with its capital, Chora, bustling with half the population.
Naxos entices with its beautiful beaches, traditional villages, delectable cuisine, rich archaeological sites, hiking trails, and windsurfing spots, catering to every traveler’s desire. Approaching by sea, the enchanting view of the Venetian castle and the ancient Portara, a majestic marble doorway from a 6th-century BC temple to Apollo, captivates visitors. Dominated by Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, and fringed by 92 km of pristine coastline, Naxos stands as a beacon of natural beauty and timeless charm in the Aegean.
Hike in the Cave & Mountain of Zeus
The highest peak on Naxos Island, renowned for its captivating landscape, numerous goats, and breathtaking sunrises, stands as one of the island’s most intriguing regions. This is the very place, steeped in mythology, where the mighty Zeus is said to have grown up and found sanctuary. Join the exploration of both the cave and summit of this mountain, offering a splendid panoramic vista of Naxos and the surrounding Cycladic Islands.
Food tour of Apeiranthos village
Apeiranthos is a picturesque mountain village in Naxos, with a lovely name meaning “a lot of flowers” and is widely known for its long history, imposing architecture & unique dialect of the nearly 1100 proud inhabitants, who have maintained their own distinct dialect in which even a slightly trained ear reveals their true relationship with the island of Crete. Many consider Apeiranthos village to be Naxos’ crown jewel. Much of this belief stems from the fact that it has managed to retain its unique authenticity over the centuries, which is visible in every step you take, every alley you walk, and everywhere you look. The wide range of products provides locals with the opportunity to create eclectic recipes inspired by talented local women. Sample crunchy crust bread with local smoked ham, pork in a rich tomato garlic sauce, goat cheese with honey, and a special dessert, while walking along the picturesque marble paths and passing by Venetian Towers.
Traditional Villages of Naxos tour – a shorter version
Choosing the best locations and creating a palette of tastes, that’s the ideal tour for seeing some of the island’s most important landmarks and taste some of the most famous greek-naxian dishes. First stop will be in Kaloxylos, where you will learn about the first electric olive oil press and sample some delicious products. Situated in an area lush with olive and oak trees, Kaloxylos is well-known for its pretty houses and especially for the rare flowers in the courtyards. You then continue to Apeiranthos or t’Aperathou in local dialect. The village is built at the foot of Mt. Fanari. Venetian towers, pretty, old two-storey houses, marble paved alleys with arches above them, picturesque squares combine to create a rare atmosphere. Finish the day at Halki, a village with long history and numerous neoclassical houses and buildings, testimony to the wealth and power the village once exerted in the surrounding area. Apart from the lovely old mansions and the picturesque churches, the village itself has colorful alleys that give visitors the sense that they have somehow gone back in time.
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1. Naoussa - Southern Naxos Rhina Cave (Swim) - Iraklia - Schinoussa - Naoussa
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2. Naoussa - Naxos Town - Southern Naxos Rhina Cave - Naoussa
