Novel Naxos: A Hidden Gem in the Cyclades

Thanks to a 2014 New York Times article declaring Naxos, Greece not to be missed, travel heavyweights have been including it year after year on their roundups of must-see destinations within the Cyclades.

Unlike its neighbors Santorini and Mykonos, Naxos remains relatively unfazed by the North American hype – despite the fact that the picturesque island continues to surface on Greek island round-ups. Its low-key ambiance and quiet pace provide visitors with an authentic Greek island experience, only three and a half hours from bustling Athens.

Best Time to Travel to Naxos

The weather in Greece is warm from March/April onwards, with peak crowds in July and August.  Early September is an ideal time to experience the island. By September fewer tourists are packing the ferries and beaches, as children across Europe are back in school.

Getting There

The easiest way to arrive to Naxos is by ferry from Athens. From the port of Piraeus (just outside of Athens) a highspeed ferry will deliver you to Naxos in roughly 3.5 hours, while other ferries offer a more scenic 5.5-hour journey. Purchase your tickets in advance to alleviate any headaches at the port and guarantee your arrival time.

What to Do

Eat. Simply arrive hungry, and don’t leave until you’ve eaten just about everything. Local Naxian cheese and olive oil are not to be missed, as is imbibing on a glass of island-made Kitron (a spirit made from citron trees, a relative of the lemon). There are plenty of restaurants directly across the street from the port, however going inland (even if it’s a block or two) will often reveal restaurants aimed at locals instead of tourists, complete with more reasonable prices and authentic cuisine.

While it’s a drive nearly 45 minutes inland, a visit to Rotonda (located in the Apeiranthos region of Naxos) will deliver gourmet food with jaw-dropping views of the island and sea. Tip: Reserve a table for sunset, the views are some of the best on the island.

Naxos has no shortage of stunning beaches and beach bars. From the Chora (town center) the first beach is Agios Georgios, an easy 15-minute walk from the center of town. While there are ample oceanfront restaurants and beach bars, Agios Georgios is often the most crowded due to its proximity to the town center.

Outside of the town center, three well-known beaches dot the coast – Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka. Each boasts crystal clear turquoise water, not unlike the Caribbean, and Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna are within walking distance of each other. All three beaches are easily accessible by public transit that runs every half hour from the town center.

If you want to rent a sunbed for the day (highly recommended to find reprieve from the scorching Mediterranean sun) visit any number of the beach bars along the beach. Some will rent two beds and an umbrella for a flat fee, others will include them for ‘free’ with the purchase of food or drinks.

Unique to Naxos is the Eggares Olive Press Museum, one of Naxos’s oldest remaining olive mills. A brief complimentary tour showcases the history of the mill, including original production materials once used at the site. Don’t miss a tasting, I dare you to leave without buying some of their oil. You’ll be hooked.

Where to Stay

Naxos beckons travelers with a diverse array of incredible accommodations, ensuring an enchanting stay on this Greek paradise. Whether you seek lavish retreats with personalized service, a convenient base for exploration, or the soothing ambiance of the Aegean waves right outside your window, Naxos’ accommodations promise an unforgettable fusion of comfort, style, and Greek hospitality. From villas to luxury resort stays Naxos has a wide variety of accomodation styles. Below are a few favorites of The Trip Atelier.

 

1. Naxian Collection: Luxury Suites with Private Pools Indulge in opulence at Naxian Collection, offering a haven of luxury on Naxos. Pamper yourself in spacious suites, each equipped with a private pool. Immerse in breathtaking views, personalized service, and modern amenities, ensuring an unforgettable and lavish retreat.
2. Saint Vlassis Hotel: Charming Haven Near Naxos Town Experience the perfect blend of charm and convenience at Saint Vlassis Hotel. Nestled near the heart of Naxos Town, this hotel welcomes travelers with warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations. Explore the vibrant town or unwind in the serene ambiance of the hotel, providing an ideal base for your Naxian adventures.
3. Nissaki Beach Hotel: Beachfront Elegance and Stunning Views Enjoy beachfront elegance at Nissaki Beach Hotel, where the azure waters of the Aegean meet luxury accommodation. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the waves from your stylish room, and relish panoramic views of the coastline. With impeccable service and a serene atmosphere, this hotel promises a tranquil and memorable escape on Naxos.
4. Hotel Grotta Is rated #1 on TripAdvisor for good reason. The Greek hospitality is evident from the moment you arrive, welcomed with a snack and glass of white wine from the family’s vineyard.  Don’t miss the legendary breakfast spread, it’s something dreams are made of. 
5. Kavos Boutique Hotel is located a ten-minute walk from Agios Prokopios beach and offers guests their choice of villas, apartments, or suites overlooking the Aegean sea and nestled among the bougainvillea. With an outdoor pool, restaurant, and pool bar, guests will want for nothing. 

Interested in visiting Greece, or maybe island hopping for your next vacation? Let’s talk! The Trip Atelier takes the stress out of vacation planning. Schedule a consultation to plan your wonderful Greek adventure!