Naxos, a beautiful charming scenic gem of Cyclades group of Greek islands is often missed by travellers because of its more famous neighbours Santorini and Mykonos.
But in our recent trip in September , 2024 we decided to visit Naxos for at least 3 days after finishing our tours of Rhodes and Crete .
We reached Naxos by Champion jet ferry from Crete and the moment we stepped down on Ferry port ,we were welcome by the view of gigantic and iconic structure of Portara.
Portara is a massive marble doorway standing on a small islet Palatia, very close to the town and it is 6 meters tall , 3.5 meters wide.It is a remnant of an ancient temple dedicated to Apollo which was never completed and is stated to have been built around 530 BC . This has become a landmark of Naxos and offers stunning and breathtaking scenery of azure Aegean Sea along with unforgettable views of setting Sun.
As Naxos is the largest of Cycladic islands, it offers numerous relaxing beaches, small mountain townships and lovely tiny sea side villages to be explored. So after checking in our hotel Naxos Beach Resort on Saint Georges beach, we rented a car for next two days and decided to explore the beach for the rest of the evening.
Saint Georges beach is one of the most popular beach for swimmers and sunbathers and usually safe for families because of its calm water, however, it has hidden dangers due to sudden shifting of sand. So be careful. But it is ideal for one to lay back, feel the water under the feet and listen to the sound of waves. Every evening we used to hit the water before sunset time to get completely relaxed. It is very close to the town (Chora) and is dotted with many tavernas and beach bars of which we visited Trata, Vamoos and Nissaki for dinner on successive evenings
Next day we explored Chora, very small but picturesque town with rich cultural heritage. It has maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with many shops and restaurants. Then we visited the medieval castle overlooking the sea, church, archaeological museum and temple ruin of Dionysus.
Now time for some beach hopping. We headed for Agios(Saint) Prokopios beach near the airport .This is a very popular long sandy beach with crystal clear water.
Next stop was Mikri Vigla beach,a famous scenic beach with turquoise water. We found many people enjoying surfing there. After a short spell we headed towards secluded but most charming Plaka beach .It has calm waters and lush green surroundings but becomes very dark after sunset. Now it is time to return to our own beach (Saint George) for evening swim.
Next day after breakfast we decided to visit a picturesque fishing village Chalki known for its traditional stone built houses and wooden balconies, Churches, narrow streets and delicious sea foods. We enjoyed some Naxian citron liqueur at Kitron Cocktail bar. Citron is a type of citrus fruit that is produced here and is highly valued for its aroma and taste. The liqueur is a sweet fragrant spirit and should be had with local cheese .Naxos is also famous for its potatoes and local cheese like Graviera and Naxos cream cheese.
Next stop was another hidden gem, a traditional small village Apeiranthos. We admired its location on lush green rolling valleys and stone built small houses.
Path was mountainous and bends were becoming more hair pin shaped but sceneries which were unfolding were simply breathtaking. Reached Koronida, a quaint village of friendly locals among the mountains and then proceeded to see famous Kouros of Apollonas.
Kouros is a magnificent Greek statue created around 600 BCE, and is carved from a single block of Naxian marble, approximately 10.5 meters tall. It is considered one of the most important archeological finds on Naxos and provides valuable insights into ancient Greek art and culture.
Now we reached beautiful Apollonas, a fishing village with secluded stunning beach and tranquil clear water. After roaming around for some time we settled in a seaside restaurant to savour grilled prawns and fried sardins and started dreaming never to leave this heavenly place. But it was a long way back to our resort, so we had to leave Apollonas. Tomorrow is another day. We shall be at Athens.
Best time to visit Greek islands
After mid April till mid October when ferry service is regular. But sea water may be cooler for swimming in April and October.
Where to stay at Naxos
Best place is Chora. We stayed at Naxos beach resort on Saint George beach and is highly recommendable. Adriani, Nissaki Beach hotel are also good. Budget friendly hotels to five star one are available in the city. Some very good hotels can be found at Apollonas.
How to reach
By Air – From Athens direct flights are available. Naxos has a tiny airport.
By Ferry – Blue star, Champion Jets and other ferry lines operate regular ferry service from
Athens, Crete, Santorini, etc.
Also day trips by ferry is available from Santorini, Mykonos, Paros etc.
3/4/5 days Cyclades small islands trips are popular too but costly.
