Naxos
is ancient splendour basking in ink-blue Aegean
Welcome to Naxos
The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos packs a lot of bang for its buck. Its main city of Hora (known also as Naxos) has a gorgeous waterfront and a web of steep cobbled alleys below its hilltop kastro, all filled with the hubbub of tourism and shopping. You needn’t travel far, though, to find isolated beaches, atmospheric mountain villages and ancient sites.
Top experiences in Naxos
Naxos activities
Mykonos Catamaran Sailing Tour
Captain Michael, highly experienced skipper and owner of the catamarans, will welcome you in Ornos Bay, the starting point (a well sheltered bay south of Mykonos Town). After the traditional safety briefing, we hoist the sails up (we always prefer hoisting the sails rather than listening to the engines!) to enjoy an hour of a smooth and safe sailing on the unbelievable blue waters of the Aegean Sea . We reach first the south end of Delos and 20 minutes later the turquoise waters of Rhenia island. After a first relaxing, swimming, snorkelling stop in an unspoiled cove, we sail to another beautiful cove with crystal clear waters where we serve our delicious full meal freshly cooked on board by the chef/sailor! Based on fresh local ingredients, our 7 dishes menu includes salads, starters, grilled prawns, calamaris cooked in white wine sauce, meat and vegetables "saute" on balsamic vinegar... the best meal ever served on a boat in Mykonos! The open-bar is included (sodas, water, beer, white wine). After a last swim, it will be time to sail back to Mykonos, enjoying a nice view of Paros and Naxos on the way. According to the weather, we can also do on request a third short stop in front of the site of Delos where you can take pictures of the archaeological site from the catamaran. If you wish, we can then hire an official guide able to explain you everything about the history and the mythology of Delos (on private tours only). If it's too windy, enjoy an alternative itinerary where you sail along the south coast of Mykonos visiting some of the famous beaches of the island and a beautiful cove away from the crowds. Everything is included in the rates except the transfer to Ornos Bay (we can arrange it at a very reasonable price with our partner who runs AC buses)
Delphi, Arachova, St. Lucas Monastery Tour from Athens
After being picked up from your Athens hotel, enjoy the scenic journey through Thebes’ picturesque valleys and cotton fields as your expert guide shares tales of the Ancient Greeks. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, your first brief stop is Levadia, a town famous for its trade in beautiful brightly colored carpets.At midday, stare in amazement as your coach arrives at the foot of Mt Parnassos where the sanctuary of Delphi lies. The sanctuary, known as the Temple of Apollo, served as the site for the worship of the god Apollo after he was said to have slain a dragon who lived there.As you walk around the UNESCO-listed archaeological site with your guide, pass by Castalia Spring and see famous monuments such as the Athenian Treasury, the theater and the Sacred Way that, in ancient times, was lined with treasuries and statues that were gifted by city states to honor Apollo and to demonstrate their stature and wealth.Next, head inside Delphi Archeological Museum with your guide. This treasure trove consists of 15 rooms that house countless artifacts and awe-inspiring exhibits including the frieze of the Treasury of the Siphnians, the Sphinx of Naxos, the Statue of Antinous and the famous bronze Charioteer of Delphi.After exploring the museum, return to the coach and continue to the scenic mountain village of Arachova. Known for its hand-woven rugs, quilts and carpets, Arachova is also famous for its delicious wine and cheese. Enjoy your time at your leisure, perhaps stopping for a refreshing drink in a cafe or trying out some of the delicious local delicacies at one of the restaurants (own expense).Meet back up with your guide, and cool off in your air-conditioned coach as you travel to the UNESCO-listed Saint Lucas Monastery. Built in the 11th century during the Byzantine period, Saint Lucas Monastery is home to a series of intricate mosaics that decorate its cathedral, making it one of the finest monuments of Byzantine architecture in the entire country.Your tour ends in the early evening when arriving back at your Athens hotel after a relaxing coach ride.
Secrets of Crete - Mount Oxa Adventure
On this tour it will take us to the highest point in the local area, Mount Oxa (543 metres above sea level) and then onto the wind farm for some spectacular views of SpinalongaWe pick you up from your accommodation at 9.00 am (early start required to avoid hotter parts of the day). You will be driven off road for 2/3rds of the upward journey in the comfort of our Land Rover Discovery, perfectly suited for this type of terrain. Approx 650 feet from the summit we park up and handle the last leg on foot, this may sound daunting but it really is a fairly moderate climb that most able bodied adults and older children will handle comfortably, the tracks are not smooth but are fairly easily negotiated and because the path zig zags the steepness is taken out of it, there is no rock climbing, you will however need a head for heights and a hat. After about 30 steady minutes we reach the chapel of Timios Stavros (The Holy Cross) which is situated at the top of Mount Oxa and from here you will get one of the most stunning views on the entire island, this is a hidden gem that few experience and none forget. Mount Oxa is the site of the ruins of the ancient state of Naxos, which is thought to have served as the acropolis of Olous the ancient town of Elounda and you can still see many of the walls and water tanks of the city. Here archaeologists have had some significant finds including coins depicting Dionysus.There is an option to travel to the very peak from here (another 20 minutes each way) but this may not be for everyone as there is no defined path and there is more scrambling involved, our guides have done this many times but there is no pressure to do this . We take some time to take photos and have refreshment then at your leisure we work our way back down.It's worth mentioning that sensible footware is advised, trainers will suffice but sandals are not recommended and flipflops are totally unsuitable.Now it's back in the 4x4s and on to the wind farm. The views here are of the north coast and right around Elounda bay and you'll not find a better spot to view and photograph the leper colony island of Spinalonga.Finally, who's for some more off roading?We leave the wind farm and travel down the side of the mountain directly opposite Spinalonga, great views and fun driving all the way down.Inclusive: Land Rover Discovery with air condition, experienced driver, refreshments/water
8-Day Sail Greece: Mykonos to Santorini
Day1: Mykonos / Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 4 pm. The first port of call is the local supermarket to buy supplies for your trip as a group. Before and after the meeting, perhaps head out to enjoy Mykonos and unwind on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Navigate the town's narrow streets, visit the Church of Panagia Paraportiani or browse chic galleries, restaurants and boutiques. In the evening, perhaps wander down to Little Venice to enjoy a cocktail by the water at sunset. You'll spend tonight aboard the boat. Your skipper will collect the trip kitty of EUR100 at the pre-departure meeting today. DAY2-7: Sailing the Greek Islands Naxos / This morning we head for the Bay of Gaidharos for breakfast and a swim, before making our way across the glistening water to Naxos. Discover the beautiful beaches, fragrant olive groves and charming villages of Hora, the capital of Naxos. As the largest Cycladic island, Naxos also has one of the most colourful mythological histories. Small Cyclades / It's time to feel the wind in our hair once again as we sail along the coast of Naxos. After around 5 hours we drop anchor in the Small Cyclades. While all the islands harboured communities in ancient times, the middle ages saw this reduced to just pirates and goats. Amorgos / Next is a brief sail (approximately 3 hours) to the rugged, mountainous island of Amorgos – known to the world as the stunning location of Luc Besson's film, 'The Big Blue'. Katapola, the island's main port, boasts classic Cycladic architecture with windmills and an old Venetian castle. The waterfront is an excellent place to relax in restaurants, cafes and bars. Ios / Continue to Ios, an island inhabited since early Cycladic times, proudly claiming to be the burial place of epic Greek poet Homer. Ios has managed to retain some allure from the abundance of beaches and preservation of its classic cube houses packed around the laneways of Hora. A short walk from the harbour, Hora's shops, restaurants, nightclubs, bars and cafes all come alive in the evenings. Santorini / Formed by a huge volcanic explosion, Santorini is instantly recognisable with its blue and white buildings, fascinating ruins and stunning natural beauty. After making our entrance by sailing through the remarkable caldera, all the hubbub of this beautiful island is there for the taking. The exuberant capital of Fira, perched on the edge of the caldera, has an exciting range of restaurants, shops and bars. DAY8: Santorini / Your adventure comes to an end today. You can depart the boat at 8 am or earlier. We recommend booking an extra night's accommodation to see all the sights of Santorini.
Paros and Naxos Family Watersports Adventure
Highlights Family friendly watersports-based holiday to the most ‘active’ islands in GreeceWindsurfing & SUP lessons for all levelsGuided walks to secret corners of the islandOptional activities such as coastal biking and day cruise to nearby islandsHandpicked tavernas serving home made delicious food Day 01 Our airport transfer van awaits you, hop in and head straight to the beach-front, family run accommodation situated on the northeastern side of the island. Explore the surroundings of this beautiful property and enjoy dinner at a nearby tavern overlooking the deep blue Aegean waters. Day 02 After a nutrition-packed breakfast, go with the wind by enjoying an exhilarating windsurfing or SUP lesson – with instruction provided for any age or level of experience.In the afternoon, get a taste of the fresh and delectable local cuisine at a remote traditional village or explore chic Naoussa town, and stroll through the whitewashed cobblestone mazes to see a myriad of tiny shops, and bar-restaurants. Day 03 This morning, you will savor the ozone-rich sea air and golden sands of popular Kolymbithres beach, where huge, grey-white granite rocks stand like remarkable sculptures. Take an invigorating coastal hike and admire a Mycenaean Acropolis and the Monastery of St. John. Stop for a dip and a snack on a hidden beach, where you can take plenty of time to soak up the magnificent views of the Aegean Sea. Day 04 Today you will extend your knowledge on our favorite water sport. Whether you have chosen windsurfing or SUP your instructor will take you to the next level. This is an excellent spot for beginner-intermediate surfers who want to improve fast. In the afternoon, relax over a late lunch in the picturesque, amphitheatrically-built village of Marpissa, a cluster of dazzling white buildings perched on Kefalos Hill.Day 05 NaxosKalimera! Say goodbye to Paros and head straight to the main port, prepaid ticket in hand to continue your adventure in Naxos. With an active main town where you can shop and admire the Venetian architecture and Kastro (castle) area, the island offers opportunities for both laid back relaxation,and water or land activities. The day is yours to unwind as you choose.Days 06-07After breakfast, off we go to one of Europe’s most amazing windsurfing spots for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. The warm and shallow crystal clear waters of this beach park blessed with consistent northerly winds all summer long, will be your playground until the end of your adventure holiday. In the afternoon you may wish to choose additional activities such coastal walking, water park visit or have additional sessions of your favorite water sport.Day 08Today a transfer to Naxos International airport or to Naxos port is provided.
Round-Trip Helicopter Transfer Between Santorini and Greek Islands
Book a helicopter flight to the most popular Greek islands and locations. Indicative Available Destinations: Mykonos: White buildings, turquoise skies and tanned bodies lining golden sandy beaches. The most popular Greek Island in the Aegean Sea is all about energy and attracts a diverse and upscale crowd that thrives on its stylish nightlife. During the day some privacy can be had in the more secluded north beaches, but the south beaches are all party. Ski, jet-ski, windsurf, horseback ride, parasail or just save up your energy for the evening ahead. Crete: Visit the beaches of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos Ios: Hillside clusters of blue-roofed white buildings, an amphitheater, golden beaches that spill into the sapphire sea. The spindly windmills of Ios are like something from a storybook, and a visit to the Tomb of Homer (yep, that Homer) is an exercise in awed contemplation. When the sun goes down, party it up at one of Ios’ many electrifying nightspots. Folegandros: Explore the most charming town of the Aegean Naxos: See the island of Naxos, a unique blend of ancient ruins and beach culture. The largest of the Cycladic Islands, Naxos is the childhood home of none other than Zeus, king of the gods. Hike over a causeway to Palatia, where the Portara, a stone gateway to an ancient temple that no longer exists, stands alone, the symbol of the island. At sunset, the views of the island, and the sea beyond, are breathtaking.Read lessParos: There are beaches for everyone on Paros—families, partiers, watersports enthusiasts, honeymooners. Anyone can find their perfect stretch of golden sand. The same breeze that rustles orange and pomegranate trees will power your kitesurfing or windsurfing session.