Naxos, the Queen of the Cyclades

Wed 14 Jun 2023
- Greece

As you approach Naxos’ harbor, the island's rich cultural diversity unfolds before your very eyes. To your left stands a majestic classical temple, while to your right, a small Byzantine chapel captures your attention. And above the charming Cycladic city, a medieval Venetian castle proudly reigns. It's like stepping into a time-traveling wonderland!

History

Did you know that Náxos is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth? Dating back a whopping 5000 years, this island brims with stories of ancient civilizations. Picture yourself strolling through small mountain villages, where the spirit of ancient Greece still lingers.

Nature

Once you venture further inland, you will be awestruck by the island's diverse fertile landscapes. Towering rugged mountains create a breathtaking backdrop for the lush Tragéa plains, adorned with olive groves and ancient oaks. Further westwards, you'll encounter vast farming lands that stretch towards an endless expanse of dunes along the sea. And for those seeking secret swimming spots, the rocky east coast hides some truly magnificent bays!

Mythology

Naxos isn't just about its natural beauty and historical wonders—it's also a place where myths come alive. Even the gods of the Greek Pantheon felt extremely comfortable here. Zeus, Apollon, Dionysus, Demeter, and Ariadne are just a few of the revered deities whose presence can still be felt today. Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy, holds a special place in Naxos's heart. For a while it carried his name directly as Dionysia. The powerful, uncompleted statue in the quarry near Apóllona is attributed to him, and a temple dedicated to him was discovered in 1986, south of the city Náxos. Dionysus gave the island the gift of the grape vine!

How to explore Naxos

The best way to explore this island paradise? On foot! As the wise traveler Resut Pilton de Tournefort once said in 1717, "Walking on Naxos means traversing it all over to find out the fine parts of it." And guess what? Three centuries later, this still holds true. The island offers an extensive network of old mule tracks, which will guide you to the most captivating places. While the farmers now prefer the newly constructed roads, these ancient stone-paved paths weave through the landscape, telling stories of centuries-old journeys. But be sure to ask for the "monopáti" (walking path) to stay on track, as modern roads might lead you astray. Remember, the mule dung on the paths is more reliable than goat droppings!

When to visit Naxos

If you're looking for vibrant colors and a lively atmosphere, plan your visit around Easter. While it might be a bit cool, the island transforms into a vibrant paradise with grass-green fields, poppy-red blossoms, and freshly white-washed houses. For the best weather and fewer crowds, May and June are ideal. The blossoms may be partially withered, but the warm temperatures and fewer tourists create the perfect ambiance. By the end of May, the water also reaches a pleasant temperature, inviting you to take a refreshing dip.

During peak tourist season, July and August, seek shade during the noon hours to keep cool and hydrated. As September arrives, the intense heat gradually subsides, and the sea remains inviting for swimming until the end of October. It's the perfect time for longer walking tours!

What to eat in Naxos

How could we forget about the culinary delights of Naxos? The island is renowned for its exceptional local produce and traditional dishes. Indulge in the island's famous cheeses, such as the flavorful graviera and the creamy arseniko. Savor the sweet notes of their renowned honey and don't miss the chance to sample their succulent lamb dishes, slow-cooked to perfection, or fresh seafood caught straight from the surrounding azure waters. And of course, pair your meals with the island's celebrated wines!