Discover the magic of Naxos
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands, is a gem set in the Aegean Sea, perfect for those who dream of a holiday that combines history, natural beauty and fun. One of the four corners called the “magical golden rectangle”, it is located in the center of the archipelago surrounded by other famous islands such as Santorini, Mykonos and Paros. Its strategic position offers the possibility of creating an unforgettable itinerant trip. Getting to Naxos is very simple and this is also why it is chosen by so many travellers every year. With 150 kilometers of coastline, Naxos is renowned for its golden sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, ideal for families, couples and nature lovers. Every summer, this destination welcomes those seeking relaxation, spectacular landscapes and the authenticity of Greece.

Breathtaking territory and landscapes
Naxos extends over 430 square kilometers, and offers an extraordinary variety of landscapes. To the west, where the capital is located, the coast is characterized by wide plains and sandy beaches. The heart of the island, however, is dominated by rolling hills and imposing mountains, such as Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, which reaches 1000 meters.

The northern and eastern areas are wilder, with jagged cliffs and hidden bays. The fertile inland lands are rich in vineyards, olive groves and orchards, irrigated by the waterways that cross the island, providing local products of the highest quality such as olive oil and wine that, in addition to satisfying the needs of the inhabitants, is also exported to supply the nearby islands.

Naxos between myth and history
According to mythological tales, Zeus grew up in Naxos (he was born in Crete). Having fallen in love with Semeli, daughter of King Kadmo of Thebes, he fathered a son, Dionysus, God of wine and joy. The mother dies while carrying the baby in her womb, so Zeus puts him inside her thigh to give life. Dionysus grows up in Naxos and loves it so much that he makes it fertile and full of vineyards. Another myth is the one that speaks of Theseus. During his return from Crete after killing the Minotaur with the help of Ariadne, daughter of Minos, he stops in Naxos to rest. During a dream Dionysus appears to him and advises him to abandon the girl on Mount Drios, which Theseus did for fear of revenge from the God. In reality Dionysus had fallen madly in love with Ariadne and wanted her all for himself. In the end there is a happy epilogue: the God and the girl get married, living a happy life and from their union were born Zeus Oinopion (wine drinker), Stafylos (grapes) and Evanth. From this story also comes the saying “leaving her alone” for the cowardice of Theseus who abandons his beloved.

From the writings and archaeological ruins, it can be deduced that Naxos was originally inhabited by the Thracians who introduced the cult of the God Dionysus. Between 3200-2100 BC it was the center of the Cycladic civilization. In 530 BC the tyrant Ligdami began the construction of the Portara, symbol of Naxos together with the temples of Demeter and Apollo which were meant to express the urban development and power of the island. In 502 BC the Persian wars began which came to life thanks to the revolts of the inhabitants who influenced with their gesture also Asia Minor and in the Byzantine period Naxos became the most important commercial center of the Archipelago. Following the fourth crusade in 1198 it was conquered by Marco Sanudo (we are in the period of the Venetian Serenissima) who dominated all the Cyclades Islands until 1566 when the pirate Khayr al Din Barbarossa conquered it and put it under Ottoman rule but still left the administration to the Venetians as they were very skilled in managing the assets that contributed to enrich their coffers with taxes. After almost four centuries of domination, finally in 1821 with the revolt for independence, Naxos returned under the Greek flag.

Dream beaches
Naxos beaches are famous for being uncontaminated. Sandy stretches such as Agios Prokopios beach and Agia Anna, to the hidden coves of Aliko beach and Moutsouna beach. All have clear waters and are ideal for swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing in the sun.

Water sports lovers will find plenty to enjoy here. The western coasts are perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the favorable currents. In short, everyone will find their little corner of paradise in Naxos and will enjoy so much generosity of Mother Nature.

What to do in Naxos
Do not miss the icon of Naxos, the Portara, of which a large part of the foundations and the stone portal are still intact, a reminder of the temple dedicated to the God Apollo facing the sacred Delos islnd, or the temple of Dionysus and the temple of Demeter in the village of Gyroula.

The villages of its hinterland, in addition to offering archaeological sites of considerable value, are also an alternative to beach life. So let’s go and discover the territory that will surely leave you with beautiful memories as well as a better knowledge. In Apollonas for example, there are the remains of a Kouros, an enormous ten-meter high statue of the God Dionysus. If you go towards the mountain instead, Mount Zas of a suggestive landscape beauty, hides the Cave of Zas, a beautiful cave full of stalactites and stalagmites also called the Cave of Zeus where according to the myth the father of the Gods spent his childhood. Always inland you will come across forests of Lebanese cedar trees, a very wild area that alternates between fields of olive trees and orchards, a real contradiction.

And finally a view of the capital with its old city made of labyrinthine streets where at every corner a surprise appears up to the Kastro (the castle) that dominates the city from above dating back to 1200 where the view is nothing short of spectacular.

A dive into local cuisine
Naxos is not only sea and history, but also a journey into the flavors of Greek cuisine. Local products are at the center of genuine and delicious dishes: from golden olive oil to typical goat cheese, passing through the wine produced from the vines that Dionysus himself, according to the myth, made prosperous.

Try the “graviera” of Naxos, a cheese with a unique flavor, and do not miss the dishes based on fresh fish or the desserts based on honey and dried fruit. Eating in Naxos means enjoying tradition, the territory and the passion for good food.

Why visit Naxos?
Naxos is an island for everyone. Whether you are looking for relaxation on dream beaches, adventure among mountains and trails, or a full immersion in Greek history and myths, here you will find it all. It is the ideal destination for couples, families and even for those who love to travel alone, thanks to its variety of landscapes and activities. It is also good for sportsmen who can enjoy activities where the wind is essential as its geographical position is exposed to currents especially from the west side where there are several centers for windsurfing or kitesurfing.

The hospitality of its inhabitants, the beauty of the territory and the richness of its history make every moment in Naxos special.

Where to stay in Naxos
For a family holiday where comfort is the first feature to evaluate, without a doubt the area whereAgios Prokopios beach, of Agia Anna or Agios Georgios are located. Coasts with shallow waters where puppies can play and tire themselves out in complete safety, where there are shops, taverns, restaurants, hotels, apartments and everything you need for a relaxing holiday.

For couples we recommend Chora instead. Yes, ok, you can’t drive around with a car or scooter, there are lots of stairs to climb, but can you imagine an evening stroll through its wonderful alleys where at every corner you can find a cozy tavern or a little place to stay out late?

Get ready to experience an unforgettable holiday, fill out the form Naxos is waiting for you!