Naxos

The Cyclades consist of around 2200 islands, islets and various rocky outcroppings. All of them together form an imaginary circle around sacred Delos, the island which according to mythology, appeared from amid the waves to become the land of Apollo. Indeed, where could a place with more sunlight than the Cyclades be found for the god of light?

Today the Cyclades are called the “white islands” because the villages built with the renowned Cycladic traditional architecture look pure white on the barren ground creating a superb contrast to the deep blue color of the sea.

With their dry climate, abundant sunshine and fabulous sand beaches the Cyclades guarantee an unforgettable holiday.

The trip to the Cyclades can be made by ferry from Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrion as well as by plane from Athens to Mykonos, Paros, Milos, Santorini, Syros and Naxos.

Naxos is the largest island of the Cyclades with its highest mountain Zas which in the distance looks like a pyramid. Naxos is a fertile island with a rich variety of landscapes: meadows, long beaches, gorges full of oleanders and rugged mountains.

It also has pretty Cycladic villages and a large number of Venetian towers scattered all around and Byzantine churches. The island is renowned for the quality of its cheeses,honey and meat. Kitron, a fruit from which the island’s liqueur is made, is considered a specialty of Naxos.

This must be the most famous landmark of the island. This marble frame 6m high is the only thing that was left from Apollo’s temple. In the evening it becomes a popular spot for walks and watching the sunset.

It’s a labyrinth of small alleys, confusing stairways and passages. It’s a typical old town that you will find in the Cycladic islands. Window frames, doors painted in blue with lots of small bars, taverns and restaurants that become very busy during the evening.

Another landmark of the island is this citadel rising above the old town of the island. It was built by the Venetian Duke of the Archipelago Marko II Sanudo in the 13th century. Exploring Kastro you will come across merchants selling textile and souvenirs. Kastro is also a place to be if you are looking for a perfect view over Chora and the harbour.

Kitron is the famous fruit of Naxos. It’s similar to lemon. There are three kinds of this beverage: green which is the sweetest, yellow the strongest and clear which is somewhere in the middle. You will find this distillery in the village of Chalkia. They’ve been making kitron for five generations now.

This popular beach is 5km long and is pretty close to the town. You can reach it either on foot or by bike. It’s full of bars, restaurants and cafes.

This beach is also very long and compared to Agios Prokopios it also has a special place for naturists. The north of the beach is reserved for water sports like windsurfing and paddle boarding.

Rising high above the island this is  the highest mountain of the Cyclades. If you are visiting Naxos in spring and summer you will enjoy your hiking tour as the trails are covered with wildflowers and herbs.