Discover the beauty of Greece’s largest Cyclades island – Naxos, where history meets paradise.
“Discover the beauty of Greece’s largest Cyclades island – Naxos, where history meets paradise.”
Naxos
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, a group of islands situated in the Aegean Sea. It is a beautiful island that offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and rich history. Naxos is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a peaceful, yet adventurous holiday.
The island is blessed with a long stretch of sandy beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Agios Prokopios Beach, Plaka Beach, and Mikri Vigla Beach are some of the popular beaches on the island. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and stunning views. Visitors can also enjoy various water activities such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and sailing.
Apart from the beaches, Naxos has several picturesque villages that offer a glimpse of the island’s rich culture and history. Chora, the capital of Naxos, is a beautiful town that boasts of a stunning Venetian castle, narrow streets, and alleys lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The village of Apiranthos is another must-visit destination on the island. It is a traditional village that is known for its marble-paved streets, stone houses, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Naxos is also home to several ancient ruins that offer a glimpse of the island’s rich history. The Temple of Apollo is one of the most prominent landmarks on the island. It is a massive temple that was built in the 6th century BC and is one of the largest temples in Greece. The Portara, a massive marble gate that stands on a hill overlooking the sea, is another popular attraction on the island. It is believed to be the entrance to the Temple of Apollo and is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Naxos is also known for its delicious cuisine that is a perfect blend of traditional Greek and Mediterranean flavors. The island is famous for its cheese, particularly the Graviera cheese, which is a hard, salty cheese that is made from sheep’s milk. The island is also known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily by the local fishermen. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes such as octopus stew, grilled sardines, and fish soup.
Naxos is a beautiful island that offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and rich history. It is an ideal destination for those who are looking for a peaceful, yet adventurous holiday. Visitors can enjoy various water activities, explore the ancient ruins, and savor the island’s delicious cuisine. Naxos is a hidden gem in the Cyclades that is waiting to be discovered.
Portara
Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands, located in the Aegean Sea. It is a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of traditional Greek life, with its beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and historic landmarks.
One of the most iconic landmarks on the island is the Portara, a massive marble gate that stands on a hill overlooking the sea. This ancient structure is believed to have been part of a temple dedicated to the god Apollo, and it is a popular spot for visitors to watch the sunset.
But Naxos has much more to offer than just the Portara. The island is home to a number of stunning beaches, including Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters and soft sand, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
In addition to its natural beauty, Naxos is also rich in history and culture. The island has a long and fascinating history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period. Over the centuries, Naxos has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans. This diverse history is reflected in the island’s architecture, with ancient ruins, medieval castles, and traditional Cycladic houses all coexisting side by side.
One of the best places to experience Naxos’s culture is in its charming villages. The village of Chora, also known as Naxos Town, is the island’s capital and a hub of activity. Its narrow streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it is home to several important landmarks, including the Venetian Castle and the Archaeological Museum.
Another must-visit village is Apiranthos, located in the heart of the island. This picturesque village is known for its marble-paved streets, traditional houses, and stunning views. It is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Natural History and the Folklore Museum.
For those interested in outdoor activities, Naxos offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring. The island’s rugged terrain is crisscrossed by a network of trails, many of which offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside. One popular route is the hike to Mount Zas, the highest peak in the Cyclades, which offers stunning panoramic views from its summit.
Overall, Naxos is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or immerse yourself in Greek culture, this island has it all. So why not discover Naxos for yourself and experience the magic of Greece’s largest Cyclades island?
Temple of Demeter
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, located in the Aegean Sea. It is a place where the ancient and modern worlds coexist, making it a must-visit destination for those who love history, culture, and nature.
One of the most interesting places to visit on Naxos is the Temple of Demeter. It is located in the village of Sangri, about 16 kilometers from Naxos town. The temple is dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, and was built in the 6th century BC.
The Temple of Demeter is a remarkable example of ancient Greek architecture. It was built in the Doric style, which is known for its simplicity and elegance. The temple is made of white marble and has six columns on the front and back and thirteen on the sides. The roof of the temple was made of terracotta tiles, which have been replaced with modern tiles to protect the temple from the weather.
The temple was discovered in 1949 by a group of archaeologists from the French School of Athens. Since then, it has been excavated and restored to its former glory. Today, visitors can see the temple’s foundations, columns, and parts of the roof. There is also a small museum on the site that displays artifacts found during the excavation, including pottery, sculptures, and jewelry.
The Temple of Demeter is not only a beautiful example of ancient Greek architecture but also has great historical significance. It was built during a time when Naxos was a major center of agriculture and trade. The island was known for its production of olive oil, wine, and marble, which were exported to other parts of Greece and beyond. The temple was built to honor Demeter, who was believed to have taught humans how to farm and cultivate the land.
Visiting the Temple of Demeter is a great way to learn about ancient Greek culture and history. The temple is a peaceful and quiet place, surrounded by olive and fig trees. It is easy to imagine what life was like in ancient times while standing in the temple’s shadow.
The village of Sangri, where the temple is located, is also worth a visit. It is a traditional Greek village with narrow streets, white houses, and blue shutters. There are several restaurants and cafes in the village where visitors can try local food and drinks.
the Temple of Demeter is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in ancient Greek culture and history. It is a beautiful example of ancient Greek architecture and has great historical significance. Visiting the temple is a great way to learn about the island’s past and to experience its peaceful and quiet atmosphere.
Agios Prokopios Beach
Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, located in the Aegean Sea in Greece. It is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and rich history. One of the most popular destinations on the island is Agios Prokopios Beach, which is considered one of the best beaches in Greece.
Agios Prokopios Beach is located on the west coast of Naxos, about 5 kilometers south of the island’s main town, Chora. The beach is long and wide, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and hills, creating a stunning natural setting.
One of the reasons why Agios Prokopios Beach is so popular is its accessibility. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or even on foot from Chora. There are also plenty of parking spaces available near the beach, making it easy to park your car and enjoy a day at the beach.
The beach is also well-equipped, with a range of amenities available to visitors. There are numerous sun loungers and parasols available for rent, as well as showers, changing rooms, and toilets. There are also several beach bars and restaurants nearby, serving a range of local and international cuisine.
Agios Prokopios Beach is a great place to swim, sunbathe, and relax. The water is warm and inviting, and the beach is perfect for both children and adults. The beach is also popular with windsurfers and kite surfers, as the wind conditions are ideal for these activities.
If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of water sports available at Agios Prokopios Beach. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and jet skis, or take a banana boat ride. There are also several diving centers nearby, offering diving and snorkeling trips to explore the underwater world of Naxos.
Beyond the beach, there is plenty to explore on Naxos. The island is home to several picturesque villages, including Chora, which is considered one of the most beautiful towns in the Cyclades. The town is dominated by a Venetian castle and is full of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and charming cafes and restaurants.
Naxos is also home to several ancient sites, including the Temple of Apollo, which dates back to the 6th century BC. The temple is located in the town of Naxos and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Other notable sites include the Portara, a massive marble gateway that was once part of an ancient temple, and the Kouros statues, which are giant stone statues that date back to the 6th century BC.
Agios Prokopios Beach is a must-visit destination on Naxos. With its stunning natural setting, crystal-clear waters, and range of amenities, it’s no surprise that it’s considered one of the best beaches in Greece. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the island’s rich history and culture, Naxos has something for everyone.
Naxos Kastro
Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands in Greece, located in the Aegean Sea. It is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture, making it a popular destination for tourists. One of the most notable features of Naxos is its famous Kastro, a fortified Venetian castle that dates back to the 13th century.
The Kastro is located in the heart of Naxos town, also known as Chora. It was built by the Venetians in the 13th century to protect the island from invaders. The castle was constructed using local marble and has a distinctive medieval architecture that is still visible today.
Visitors to the Kastro can explore the narrow winding streets and alleys that lead to the castle’s entrance. The entrance to the castle is through a large stone archway that leads to a courtyard. Within the courtyard, there are several buildings, including a museum, a church, and a few houses.
The museum is one of the most popular attractions within the Kastro. It houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the island’s history and culture. Visitors can see exhibits of pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts that date back to ancient times. There are also exhibits that showcase the island’s agricultural history, including displays of traditional farming equipment.
The church within the Kastro is also an impressive sight. It is dedicated to Saint George and was built in the 13th century. The church is a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture and features intricate mosaics and frescoes.
One of the most striking features of the Kastro is the view from the top of the castle. Visitors can climb to the top of the castle’s walls and enjoy panoramic views of Naxos town and the surrounding countryside. The view from the top of the castle is especially stunning at sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
In addition to the Kastro, Naxos has many other attractions that are worth exploring. The island is home to several beautiful beaches, including Agios Prokopios and Plaka. These beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters and soft white sand.
Naxos is also known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Greek dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and tzatziki. The island is also known for its delicious cheese, including the famous Naxos graviera.
Overall, Naxos is a beautiful island with a rich history and culture. The Kastro is one of its most notable attractions, and visitors should make sure to explore its narrow streets and alleys. The museum, church, and stunning views from the top of the castle walls are not to be missed. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, Naxos has something for everyone.
Plaka Beach
Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands in Greece, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. One such beach is Plaka Beach, a long stretch of soft white sand and crystal clear waters, located on the west coast of the island.
Plaka Beach is a popular destination for visitors to Naxos, and it’s easy to see why. The beach is surrounded by stunning scenery, with the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea stretching out as far as the eye can see. The beach is also backed by a line of sand dunes, which provide a natural barrier against the wind and create a sense of privacy and seclusion.
The beach itself is divided into several sections, with the northern end being the most popular. Here, you’ll find a number of beach bars and restaurants, as well as sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. If you prefer a quieter experience, head to the southern end of the beach, where you’ll find more space and fewer crowds.
One of the highlights of Plaka Beach is the water, which is crystal clear and perfect for swimming. The beach gradually slopes into the sea, making it a safe and enjoyable place for children to swim and play. There are also a number of water sports available, including windsurfing and kitesurfing, for those who want to get a bit more active.
Away from the beach, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the area. Just a short walk from Plaka Beach is the small village of Agia Anna, which is home to a number of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can sample some of the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up to the nearby hilltop village of Kastraki. From here, you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Aegean Sea. You can also visit the nearby Cave of Zas, which is said to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.
Overall, Plaka Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Naxos. With its stunning scenery, crystal clear waters, and range of activities, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind on your Greek island holiday. So why not pack your bags, book your flights, and head to Naxos to discover this beautiful beach for yourself?