Heavenly sandy beaches and wild coasts, tall mountains and fertile valleys, tranquility, security, yet vibrancy. Although Naxos, the biggest and most fertile island of Cyclades, is full of contradictions, it manages to offer to its visitors the most authentic holidays. We learned all the secrets and tips of this lovely island of the Cyclades and we share them with you below. Are you ready to discover the most genuine face of Naxos?

Discover the most important monument of the island, the “Portara” which constitutes a trademark in Naxos. Located on the islet of Palation just off the port, it is a gigantic marble gate dedicated to god Apollo and the first thing that will attract your sight as you approach the island by boat. According to mythology this is the spot where Theseus abandoned Ariadne. TIP: Choose the cool afternoon hours just before sunset to visit the monument, by taking the path that will lead you to it and be prepared for unprecedented feelings of amazement.

At the main town, Chora, take endless strolls at the main picturesque stone-paved alley or at the beautiful seaside street. TIP: In the evening hours, cars are prohibited from the area letting you enjoy unhindered strolls by the seaside promenade and the pier.

Meet the Venetial Castle, which was built by the Venetian Marco Sanudo during the Latin Occupation. This is the area where the Archaeological Museum of Naxos is also located exhibiting a rich collection of Cycladic statuettes (for information call 22850 22725, entrance fee: 3€ or 2€ reduced) and the Venetian Museum which is hosted within the impressive tower of the 13th century called Della Rokka-Barozzi (open daily between 10.00 to 15.00 and 18.30 to 22.00. For further information call 22850 22387, www.naxosisland.gr/venetianmuseum). Highlight: Domus Festival which presents a string of concerts of classical music, piano recitals and feasts with traditional Greek music accompanied by stunning views to the gate of Portara.

Know the island’s unique selection of beaches that satisfies all tastes. The majority of them are large and with golden sand and they are caressed by crystal clear turquoise waters. The beach of Aghios Prokopioshas a very distinctive small pebble and is a must-see at 6 Km from Chora. For an enjoyable swim at a superb sandy beach, Aghia Anna should be your selection at a 10 minute drive from Chora. Visit also the homonymous settlement at close proximity to the beach. Do not omit to visit the beach of Plaka for which we have devoted a whole paragraph further down, the peaceful golden beach named Sahara at 16 km from Chora, Mikri Vigla beach and, of course, the secluded beaches of Panormos and Chrysi Ammos which will reward you for your effort to get there at 45 km from Chora.

Discover the numerous picturesque villages of Naxos, that are really worthy your visit. Don’t leave the island without visiting the village of Apiranthos at the foot of Mount Fanari. The village will bewilder you with its marble-paved alleys, its traditional two-floored houses, its beautiful squares boasting numerous cafés and tavernas, but also for its five museums. The village of Filoti is the biggest village of the island and the most densely populated, built at the foot of Mount Zeus and full of olive groves. Here you will see the Tower of Mparotsi, the Cave of Za and the Tower of Heimaros.

The village will please you with its plethora of tavernas and cafés under the cool shade of plane trees and sycamores. The village of Koronos should also be included in your list of excursions. Numerous stone-paved alleys and an incredibly picturesque square is what you will see there. Tip: Driving back towards the sea shores, make a turn and pass through the fishing village of Apollo. If you have some time at your disposal, have lunch or an early dinner at Matina’s taverna which serves traditional homemade dishes made of the purest ingredients. Beyond its picturesque character, the settlement is also known for the ancient marble statue depicting Kouros.

Enjoy a fun ride on a donkey at the area of Glinado. At the area of Chalaros you can leave your donkey and have a luncheon of grilled meaty delicacies or, indeed, your coffee at the famous café-museum (Open daily from 08.00 onwards, Glinado area, for information call 6942 704912).

For your accommodation in Naxos choose the amazing Corona Borealis, a white microcosm made of stone, wood, clay and ample imagination. From June 26 to June 28 escape in Naxos and enjoy a two night stay at the Open Plan Suite Sea View of Corona Borealis with 342 euros for two persons. Price includes breakfast and taxes.

Also, enjoy your holidays at a well hidden gem on Naxos island, Villa Archaion Kallos, that can accommodate up to 12 persons. From July 3 to July 6, enjoy a 3 night stay at Villa Archaion Kallos with 3.900 euros. 

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From: Anthi Sasmatzoglou

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