Ταξιδιωτικός Οδηγός του/της Kostas
Αξιοθέατα
The Portara, or the Great Door, is essentially a massive marble doorway, that stands proudly as the jewel of Naxos. It lies close to the port, on the islet of Palatia which was once a hill. Back in the ancient times, a strip of land connected the north side of Naxos port to the islet of Palatia. Today, the strip of land has been replaced by a causeway. Myth has it that the islet of Palatia was exactly where Ariadne, the Minoan princess was abandoned by her lover, Theseus after he killed Minotaur on the island of Crete.
We have agree that even though it is quite a steep climb to the top of the hill, just the experience of viewing the sunset through the Portara is completely worth it. Wherever you are in Naxos, your eyes cannot possibly miss the Portara.
202 locals recommend
Apollo Temple - Portara
The Portara, or the Great Door, is essentially a massive marble doorway, that stands proudly as the jewel of Naxos. It lies close to the port, on the islet of Palatia which was once a hill. Back in the ancient times, a strip of land connected the north side of Naxos port to the islet of Palatia. Today, the strip of land has been replaced by a causeway. Myth has it that the islet of Palatia was exactly where Ariadne, the Minoan princess was abandoned by her lover, Theseus after he killed Minotaur on the island of Crete.
We have agree that even though it is quite a steep climb to the top of the hill, just the experience of viewing the sunset through the Portara is completely worth it. Wherever you are in Naxos, your eyes cannot possibly miss the Portara.
The Castro (old, walled city) section, on elevated ground overlooking the harbour. Provides some of the quietest and most photogenic alleyways in town. It was built by the Venetians in the early 13th century and remains one of the few surviving medieval towns in Greece. The area was fortified against attack by locals and pirates.
Things to see in Castro:
Ursulines School and Merchant Academy,
Venetian Museum,
Archaeological Museum,
Catholic Cathedral.
91 locals recommend
Castle (Kastro) of Naxos
The Castro (old, walled city) section, on elevated ground overlooking the harbour. Provides some of the quietest and most photogenic alleyways in town. It was built by the Venetians in the early 13th century and remains one of the few surviving medieval towns in Greece. The area was fortified against attack by locals and pirates.
Things to see in Castro:
Ursulines School and Merchant Academy,
Venetian Museum,
Archaeological Museum,
Catholic Cathedral.
Routsouna waterfall, a spectacular 20-meter plunge, is the result of two important streams that run north and south of Keramoti.
Their origins are located on the mounts of Koronos and Fanari, respectively. The two rivers converge at the western edge of Keramoti, at a point named Dipotamata.
Continuing its flow through rocks and rich vegetation, the stream unites with a creek running from Kanafato create the Routsouna waterfall.
A plane tree is rooted at its base, while a lake of considerable depth offers a delightful swimming basin for Keramoti’s youngsters during the summer months.
From here, the water continues its flow all the way to the valley of Eggares which it irrigates before reaching the sea, at Ammitis beach. The area’s water, which maintains its flow even during the summer months, creates a nature-rich green locale that differs greatly from standard Cycladic settings. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
10 locals recommend
Routsouna's Waterfall
Routsouna waterfall, a spectacular 20-meter plunge, is the result of two important streams that run north and south of Keramoti.
Their origins are located on the mounts of Koronos and Fanari, respectively. The two rivers converge at the western edge of Keramoti, at a point named Dipotamata.
Continuing its flow through rocks and rich vegetation, the stream unites with a creek running from Kanafato create the Routsouna waterfall.
A plane tree is rooted at its base, while a lake of considerable depth offers a delightful swimming basin for Keramoti’s youngsters during the summer months.
From here, the water continues its flow all the way to the valley of Eggares which it irrigates before reaching the sea, at Ammitis beach. The area’s water, which maintains its flow even during the summer months, creates a nature-rich green locale that differs greatly from standard Cycladic settings. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
The Spring of Aries is located 2 km from Filoti in beautiful location with a great view to the village. It is said that the gurgling water never stops, even in times of drought. You can rest beneath the shade of the tall plane tree, listen to the song of the birds and enjoy the tranquility this place offers.
The spring is part of one of the most beautiful trails of Naxos. The trail starts from the outskirts of the village and it is ideal for those who love hiking. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱.𝗴𝗿
10 locals recommend
Βρυση Αριων
The Spring of Aries is located 2 km from Filoti in beautiful location with a great view to the village. It is said that the gurgling water never stops, even in times of drought. You can rest beneath the shade of the tall plane tree, listen to the song of the birds and enjoy the tranquility this place offers.
The spring is part of one of the most beautiful trails of Naxos. The trail starts from the outskirts of the village and it is ideal for those who love hiking. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱.𝗴𝗿
A footpath starting at Tsikalario leads to Apano Kastro, one of Naxos’s most impressive monuments. Built on a rocky hilltop, with superb views towards the sea, it was an important fortified position from antiquity to Venetian times.
The remains of the huge wall, with the big, rectangular stone blocks, obviously belong to the classical era, while the fort that can be seen today was built by the Venetians around the middle of the 13th century.
They named it Apano (“Upper”) to distinguish it from Chora’s Kato (“Lower”) Kastro.
There were two lines of fortifications.
The longest was around the base of the hill where remains of the wall can be seen today, along with a horseshoe-shaped bastion of more recent times for firearms.
During times of enemy raids the people living outside the walls would take refuge behind this first line of defense.
This section was normally uninhabited, and this is the reason why the only ruins found there today are those of several churches.
The second line of fortifications was on the steep approaches below the top of the hill, where the Dukes’ Castle was. The remains of a palace, a church and two cisterns carved into the rock are still visible. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
Apano Kastro
A footpath starting at Tsikalario leads to Apano Kastro, one of Naxos’s most impressive monuments. Built on a rocky hilltop, with superb views towards the sea, it was an important fortified position from antiquity to Venetian times.
The remains of the huge wall, with the big, rectangular stone blocks, obviously belong to the classical era, while the fort that can be seen today was built by the Venetians around the middle of the 13th century.
They named it Apano (“Upper”) to distinguish it from Chora’s Kato (“Lower”) Kastro.
There were two lines of fortifications.
The longest was around the base of the hill where remains of the wall can be seen today, along with a horseshoe-shaped bastion of more recent times for firearms.
During times of enemy raids the people living outside the walls would take refuge behind this first line of defense.
This section was normally uninhabited, and this is the reason why the only ruins found there today are those of several churches.
The second line of fortifications was on the steep approaches below the top of the hill, where the Dukes’ Castle was. The remains of a palace, a church and two cisterns carved into the rock are still visible. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
An impressive complex that was built as the summer resort of Jesuit monks in the 17th century is seen at Kalamitsia on Naxos, between the settlements of Melanes and Potamia.
Construction of the complex was funded by the family of the head of the Jesuit order himself, Robert Saulger.
Being a distinct mixture of western and local architecture, it includes many rooms, a chapel, auxiliary buildings such as dovecote, stable and olive mill, and a huge garden featuring terraces, bearing walls, cisterns and flights of stairs.
Due to the luxury that characterized it, it was dubbed as “the Jesuit palace” and became the object of both admiration and criticism in its heyday, encountered in many reports of travelers and Papal emissaries. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
11 locals recommend
Kalamitsia
An impressive complex that was built as the summer resort of Jesuit monks in the 17th century is seen at Kalamitsia on Naxos, between the settlements of Melanes and Potamia.
Construction of the complex was funded by the family of the head of the Jesuit order himself, Robert Saulger.
Being a distinct mixture of western and local architecture, it includes many rooms, a chapel, auxiliary buildings such as dovecote, stable and olive mill, and a huge garden featuring terraces, bearing walls, cisterns and flights of stairs.
Due to the luxury that characterized it, it was dubbed as “the Jesuit palace” and became the object of both admiration and criticism in its heyday, encountered in many reports of travelers and Papal emissaries. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
Beaches
Saint George beach is and has always been the most popular beach in Naxos. It lays south-west of the capital, Naxos Town, and is easily accessible on foot from almost every part of the capital. It took its name after the chapel of Saint George, built at its northern end. The beach is usually calm since it is well protected from the northern winds. It has shallow, warm waters so it is widely preferred by families with young children because it offers a great degree of safety. It is very well organized with many umbrellas and sun-beds for rent. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
7 locals recommend
Saint George
Saint George beach is and has always been the most popular beach in Naxos. It lays south-west of the capital, Naxos Town, and is easily accessible on foot from almost every part of the capital. It took its name after the chapel of Saint George, built at its northern end. The beach is usually calm since it is well protected from the northern winds. It has shallow, warm waters so it is widely preferred by families with young children because it offers a great degree of safety. It is very well organized with many umbrellas and sun-beds for rent. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Agios Prokopios beach on Naxos island, located just 4km from the island’s port, ranks as the island’s most acclaimed, surpassing all others in terms of distinctions earned, both from Greece and abroad.
It has been rated as Greece’s third best beach and among Europe’s top ten. An enormous beach with coarse sand, the setting here includes sand dunes and crystal-clear waters whose color alternates from blue to deep blue and turquoise.
It operates as an organized beach with sun umbrellas and sunbeds set up along its greatest part, but also includes a quieter, less frequented segment at its western edge, where the chapel of the same name stands. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
34 locals recommend
Agios Prokopios
Agios Prokopios beach on Naxos island, located just 4km from the island’s port, ranks as the island’s most acclaimed, surpassing all others in terms of distinctions earned, both from Greece and abroad.
It has been rated as Greece’s third best beach and among Europe’s top ten. An enormous beach with coarse sand, the setting here includes sand dunes and crystal-clear waters whose color alternates from blue to deep blue and turquoise.
It operates as an organized beach with sun umbrellas and sunbeds set up along its greatest part, but also includes a quieter, less frequented segment at its western edge, where the chapel of the same name stands. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
The nearest beaches are those of Agia Anna, Orkos and Agios Prokopios beach. One of the most common activities of Plaka beach patrons is beach walking. During summer, the beach looks like a busy highway with people going up and down, enjoying the sea water and the sand to the fullest. It is very common to notice people leaving their vehicles and walk the beach in search of the best place to swim. This quest can take them anywhere from a few metres to several kilometres away, even reaching the nearby beaches. There are so many things to do at Plaka beach that, according to its fans, you can spend the entire day there and never feel bored. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
43 locals recommend
Plaka beach
The nearest beaches are those of Agia Anna, Orkos and Agios Prokopios beach. One of the most common activities of Plaka beach patrons is beach walking. During summer, the beach looks like a busy highway with people going up and down, enjoying the sea water and the sand to the fullest. It is very common to notice people leaving their vehicles and walk the beach in search of the best place to swim. This quest can take them anywhere from a few metres to several kilometres away, even reaching the nearby beaches. There are so many things to do at Plaka beach that, according to its fans, you can spend the entire day there and never feel bored. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Mikri Vigla on the west coast is a masterpiece of nature, an artist’s paradise and an action photographer’s best choice since this is a famous wind and kite surfers' beach. It is a small headland that juts out into the sea and is found between the beaches of Parthena to the north, which is ideal for swimming and windsurfing and Sahara towards the south, a 4 Kilometre long beach of white sand and a veritable magnet for bathers. The beautiful whitish sandy beach of Mikri Vigla sets off the aquamarine blue hues of the sea beautifully.
Mikri Vigla is a fine resort for those focused on swimming, water sports and eating good food. There are quite a few accommodation units in the area, some of which are only within a few steps from the beach. They offer all creature comforts. If eating good food is your thing, the several averagely priced taverns of the area will keep you fully satisfied. They offer good local cuisine with excellent local products. Some even have a fantastic sea view. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
20 locals recommend
Mikri Vigla Beach
Mikri Vigla on the west coast is a masterpiece of nature, an artist’s paradise and an action photographer’s best choice since this is a famous wind and kite surfers' beach. It is a small headland that juts out into the sea and is found between the beaches of Parthena to the north, which is ideal for swimming and windsurfing and Sahara towards the south, a 4 Kilometre long beach of white sand and a veritable magnet for bathers. The beautiful whitish sandy beach of Mikri Vigla sets off the aquamarine blue hues of the sea beautifully.
Mikri Vigla is a fine resort for those focused on swimming, water sports and eating good food. There are quite a few accommodation units in the area, some of which are only within a few steps from the beach. They offer all creature comforts. If eating good food is your thing, the several averagely priced taverns of the area will keep you fully satisfied. They offer good local cuisine with excellent local products. Some even have a fantastic sea view. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
The beautiful sandy beach of Alyko is located in the south-west of Naxos and is approximately 17.5 kilometres away from the island’s capital. It is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches of Naxos, with white sand and a new forest of cedar trees. Alyko is, in fact, the name of the greater coastal area that includes the saltpans (from which the area takes its name, saltpan = alyki) right after Glyfada beach and the peninsula that follows. It includes several sandy beaches and coves like Alyko, Mikro Alyko, Kedros and Hawaii, that form as the mountains dive in the Aegean Sea. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
75 locals recommend
Alyko Beach
The beautiful sandy beach of Alyko is located in the south-west of Naxos and is approximately 17.5 kilometres away from the island’s capital. It is one of the largest and most beautiful beaches of Naxos, with white sand and a new forest of cedar trees. Alyko is, in fact, the name of the greater coastal area that includes the saltpans (from which the area takes its name, saltpan = alyki) right after Glyfada beach and the peninsula that follows. It includes several sandy beaches and coves like Alyko, Mikro Alyko, Kedros and Hawaii, that form as the mountains dive in the Aegean Sea. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Moutsouna used to be the port of Apiranthos on the eastern coast of the island which once was a busy export harbour when emery was in high demand. The emery train which transported the once valuable cargo of emery from the mines to this quaint little harbour was at its height, long, long ago. It has remained as is almost as a throwback in time since then and one can still see the cable car system and towers in place. In recent years, it has begun to develop as a tourist resort, due to its intrinsic beauty and its coves, which are to be found along the whole of the south-eastern coast as far as Panormos. This is one of the most charming section of Naxos. The only way to access Moutsouna by vehicle from Naxos Town is via Apiranthos village. The total distance is 36.6km and the road passes from Chalki and Filoti villages. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
6 locals recommend
Moutsouna Beach
Moutsouna used to be the port of Apiranthos on the eastern coast of the island which once was a busy export harbour when emery was in high demand. The emery train which transported the once valuable cargo of emery from the mines to this quaint little harbour was at its height, long, long ago. It has remained as is almost as a throwback in time since then and one can still see the cable car system and towers in place. In recent years, it has begun to develop as a tourist resort, due to its intrinsic beauty and its coves, which are to be found along the whole of the south-eastern coast as far as Panormos. This is one of the most charming section of Naxos. The only way to access Moutsouna by vehicle from Naxos Town is via Apiranthos village. The total distance is 36.6km and the road passes from Chalki and Filoti villages. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Panermos beach on Naxos island, sheltered by a gulf at the island’s southeastern coast, is almost always windless. It is equipped with a small pier and features lovely sandy beaches with immaculately clean waters. A small canteen offering snacks and refreshments operates next to the beach during the summer months. The hill above the beach features the remains of the prehistoric acropolis (fortified citadel) of Amygdalies, considered to be the most ancient spot in the Apiranthos area. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
10 locals recommend
Panormos Beach
Panermos beach on Naxos island, sheltered by a gulf at the island’s southeastern coast, is almost always windless. It is equipped with a small pier and features lovely sandy beaches with immaculately clean waters. A small canteen offering snacks and refreshments operates next to the beach during the summer months. The hill above the beach features the remains of the prehistoric acropolis (fortified citadel) of Amygdalies, considered to be the most ancient spot in the Apiranthos area. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
Villages
Apeiranthos village is by many considered the crown jewel of Naxos. Much of this belief is due to the fact that over the centuries it has managed to retain its unique authenticity which is apparent in every step you take, in every alley you walk and wherever you look. This is so not just because of the village and its uniqueness on the landscape of Naxos, but also for its nearly 1100 proud inhabitants who have kept their own distinct dialect where even a slightly trained ear reveals their true Cretan origin.
Amphitheatrically built at the slopes of Mount Fanari, it boasts magnificent views of the Naxian mountain ranges. As the locals say, while at Apeiranthos, there is no way of telling that you are, in fact, on an island. The feeling one gets is more that of a northern mainland Greece village than that of a Cycladic Island. This is partly due to its architecture and stone built houses but mainly due to its altitude, the centre of the village is located at approximately 600m from sea level. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
115 locals recommend
Apeíranthos
897 Eparchiaki Odos Apiranthou-Ormou ApollonaApeiranthos village is by many considered the crown jewel of Naxos. Much of this belief is due to the fact that over the centuries it has managed to retain its unique authenticity which is apparent in every step you take, in every alley you walk and wherever you look. This is so not just because of the village and its uniqueness on the landscape of Naxos, but also for its nearly 1100 proud inhabitants who have kept their own distinct dialect where even a slightly trained ear reveals their true Cretan origin.
Amphitheatrically built at the slopes of Mount Fanari, it boasts magnificent views of the Naxian mountain ranges. As the locals say, while at Apeiranthos, there is no way of telling that you are, in fact, on an island. The feeling one gets is more that of a northern mainland Greece village than that of a Cycladic Island. This is partly due to its architecture and stone built houses but mainly due to its altitude, the centre of the village is located at approximately 600m from sea level. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Economically and culturally vibrant, the village of Filoti is the largest of all Naxian villages. Set amphitheatrically on the slopes of two hills at the foot of Mount Zas, it is virtually surrounded by impressive summits which leave two openings, one headed west to Tragea, the other south to the local livestock farms. The village of Filoti, whose name hails from ancient times and is thought to be of Ionian origin, is comprised of three smaller settlements, Rachidi, Klefaro, and Liiri, with a total population of 1,800 who cherish their hometown and traditions. Interesting sights in Filoti’s surrounding area include the Arion fountain, Zas cave –located at the mountain’s slope, Chimarros tower on the road to Kalantos, as well as numerous Byzantine chapels. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
49 locals recommend
Filoti
Economically and culturally vibrant, the village of Filoti is the largest of all Naxian villages. Set amphitheatrically on the slopes of two hills at the foot of Mount Zas, it is virtually surrounded by impressive summits which leave two openings, one headed west to Tragea, the other south to the local livestock farms. The village of Filoti, whose name hails from ancient times and is thought to be of Ionian origin, is comprised of three smaller settlements, Rachidi, Klefaro, and Liiri, with a total population of 1,800 who cherish their hometown and traditions. Interesting sights in Filoti’s surrounding area include the Arion fountain, Zas cave –located at the mountain’s slope, Chimarros tower on the road to Kalantos, as well as numerous Byzantine chapels. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
Halki (Chalki) village used to be the capital of the island as well as its main administrative and trade centre. It is located in the centre of Naxos, 16 km from Hora, or Naxos Town in the central area of the valley of Tragea and is now the administrative centre of the municipality of Drimalia. The region of Tragea is the principal olive cultivation area of the Cyclades. It is speculated that Halki’s name is derived from a family of bronze smiths who were settled in the region by the Venetians. It is a very fertile area of Naxos and in conjunction with the olive groves that cover many square kilometers, the “Citron” tree from which the famous Naxian liqueur is produced, is everywhere to be seen. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
81 locals recommend
Chalkio
Halki (Chalki) village used to be the capital of the island as well as its main administrative and trade centre. It is located in the centre of Naxos, 16 km from Hora, or Naxos Town in the central area of the valley of Tragea and is now the administrative centre of the municipality of Drimalia. The region of Tragea is the principal olive cultivation area of the Cyclades. It is speculated that Halki’s name is derived from a family of bronze smiths who were settled in the region by the Venetians. It is a very fertile area of Naxos and in conjunction with the olive groves that cover many square kilometers, the “Citron” tree from which the famous Naxian liqueur is produced, is everywhere to be seen. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Potamia is a traditional village set on a hillside overlooking a wonderfully lush and cool valley with a population of 300 inhabitants. It is dotted with monuments of Naxos’ rich history and its economic and cultural past, ranging from the Middle Ages onwards. Water mills, chapels and ruined towers are spread around the village and general area. Each neighborhood hosts the ruins of one or two olive mills and the area still yields excellent wine, honey, herbs and fruit.
It is comprised of three settlements Pano Potamia, (Upper river), Mesi Potamia, (Mid river) and Kato Potamia, (Lower river), making it a excellent place for hiking where one of the characteristics are the private, flower laden little gardens. The whole area is a hiker’s paradise, with many trails, traditional stone bridges, ponds with ducks and waterfalls populating the ponds even in the winter months.
The village, located in the center of the island, retains its traditional colours and is nestled in an idyllic environment with abundant flowing waters and great old plane trees. Potamia is rich in vegetation and springs due to its mountainous location. It is the village locals select when going out for dinner, as it has lovely taverns offering good quality wine and excellent food. Potamia is about 9km from Chora (Naxos Town) by road, via Galanado and on the way to Chalki.
In the Medieval period, Potamia was very prosperous, the many Venetian towers and the 14 mills, whose ruins can be seen in the area till today attest to this. It realized its prime during the period of Frankish rule, when it was the popular country resort for the Venetian nobility.
In the Lierado neighborhood in between olive groves and huge plane trees, stands the 17th century the three-level Tower of Kokkos, which had a watermill in its basement. Inscriptions can be seen on the marble beams above the tower’s entrances. According to local legend, the tower played a part in the setting of a Romeo-and-Juliet like love affair that involved members of the rival Kokkos and Barozzi families. It is the most impressive structural site in the area.
The taverna in Ano Potamia is well-known for its idyllic setting and appetizing foods. It is named Pighi (Greek - Spring) and is one of the best taverns on the island. Naturally, it is situated next to a water spring.
A feature in Ano Potamia is the square with the old water fountain, next to the chapel of Agios Ioannis Theologos (which was built in 1799), while one of the 14 old watermills situated on the outskirts of the settlement has undergone restoration and can now accept visitors.
The unfinished archaic stone statue of Kore, a mythical female figure, is seen in the upper part of the village (called Ano Potamia), on the way to Halki (Chalki). Some distance away, on the way to the village of Melanes you will find a male counterpart.
The ruins of Potamia Castle (Greek - Apano Kastro), a small fort built by the Venetian Duke of Naxos Marco Sanudo in the 13th century as a lookout against pirate invasions, are seen on a hilltop on the way to Drymalia , the former municipality of eastern Naxos.
The most important of the 37 churches in the Potamia area is Agios Mamas, a 10th century Byzantine basilica at Mitropoulos, on the road to Filoti.
The main source of income for the approximately 350 permanent residents of Potamia today is farming and livestock. The village is also well-reputed for its sweet preserves, excellent cheese variety and local wine. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
Potamia
Potamia is a traditional village set on a hillside overlooking a wonderfully lush and cool valley with a population of 300 inhabitants. It is dotted with monuments of Naxos’ rich history and its economic and cultural past, ranging from the Middle Ages onwards. Water mills, chapels and ruined towers are spread around the village and general area. Each neighborhood hosts the ruins of one or two olive mills and the area still yields excellent wine, honey, herbs and fruit.
It is comprised of three settlements Pano Potamia, (Upper river), Mesi Potamia, (Mid river) and Kato Potamia, (Lower river), making it a excellent place for hiking where one of the characteristics are the private, flower laden little gardens. The whole area is a hiker’s paradise, with many trails, traditional stone bridges, ponds with ducks and waterfalls populating the ponds even in the winter months.
The village, located in the center of the island, retains its traditional colours and is nestled in an idyllic environment with abundant flowing waters and great old plane trees. Potamia is rich in vegetation and springs due to its mountainous location. It is the village locals select when going out for dinner, as it has lovely taverns offering good quality wine and excellent food. Potamia is about 9km from Chora (Naxos Town) by road, via Galanado and on the way to Chalki.
In the Medieval period, Potamia was very prosperous, the many Venetian towers and the 14 mills, whose ruins can be seen in the area till today attest to this. It realized its prime during the period of Frankish rule, when it was the popular country resort for the Venetian nobility.
In the Lierado neighborhood in between olive groves and huge plane trees, stands the 17th century the three-level Tower of Kokkos, which had a watermill in its basement. Inscriptions can be seen on the marble beams above the tower’s entrances. According to local legend, the tower played a part in the setting of a Romeo-and-Juliet like love affair that involved members of the rival Kokkos and Barozzi families. It is the most impressive structural site in the area.
The taverna in Ano Potamia is well-known for its idyllic setting and appetizing foods. It is named Pighi (Greek - Spring) and is one of the best taverns on the island. Naturally, it is situated next to a water spring.
A feature in Ano Potamia is the square with the old water fountain, next to the chapel of Agios Ioannis Theologos (which was built in 1799), while one of the 14 old watermills situated on the outskirts of the settlement has undergone restoration and can now accept visitors.
The unfinished archaic stone statue of Kore, a mythical female figure, is seen in the upper part of the village (called Ano Potamia), on the way to Halki (Chalki). Some distance away, on the way to the village of Melanes you will find a male counterpart.
The ruins of Potamia Castle (Greek - Apano Kastro), a small fort built by the Venetian Duke of Naxos Marco Sanudo in the 13th century as a lookout against pirate invasions, are seen on a hilltop on the way to Drymalia , the former municipality of eastern Naxos.
The most important of the 37 churches in the Potamia area is Agios Mamas, a 10th century Byzantine basilica at Mitropoulos, on the road to Filoti.
The main source of income for the approximately 350 permanent residents of Potamia today is farming and livestock. The village is also well-reputed for its sweet preserves, excellent cheese variety and local wine. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗻𝗲𝘁
The village of Danakos is a small picturesque village situated deep in a gorge at the foot of Mt. Zas, on Naxos’s eastern side. It is one of the island’s oldest settlements, with references by Homer and ancient historians Thucydides and Polybius, but this is also attested by the numerous remains of ancient cemetery, wells and Byzantine chapels in the area.
The name Danakos is thought to derive either from Danaoi –an early Greek tribe- or from “danax” –the ancient word for cane, which is considered to have proliferated in the area.
The village of Danakos is well-known for its plentiful and clear water springs which used to power a number of mills. The remnants of seven of these mills can still be seen in the lush gorge today, where plane trees and oleanders predominate. Its main feature is the water spring on its western side. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
8 locals recommend
Danakos
The village of Danakos is a small picturesque village situated deep in a gorge at the foot of Mt. Zas, on Naxos’s eastern side. It is one of the island’s oldest settlements, with references by Homer and ancient historians Thucydides and Polybius, but this is also attested by the numerous remains of ancient cemetery, wells and Byzantine chapels in the area.
The name Danakos is thought to derive either from Danaoi –an early Greek tribe- or from “danax” –the ancient word for cane, which is considered to have proliferated in the area.
The village of Danakos is well-known for its plentiful and clear water springs which used to power a number of mills. The remnants of seven of these mills can still be seen in the lush gorge today, where plane trees and oleanders predominate. Its main feature is the water spring on its western side. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
The community of the village of Melanes is considered one of Naxos’ most ancient settlements, built in amphitheatric fashion on the slope of a hill overlooking the same-name fertile valley.
According to the mythological tradition, the name of the village (which refers to the black color) is derived from the locals’ mourning the mutual killing of the two semi-god giant brothers Otos and Ephialtes, sons of Apollo, who were thus punished by the chief god, Zeus, for displaying arrogance.
According to another, more rational version, the name is due to the valley’s dark soil.The settlement now numbers about 400 permanent residents who are mostly occupied with farming but are also reputed as skilled masons. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿
9 locals recommend
Melanes
The community of the village of Melanes is considered one of Naxos’ most ancient settlements, built in amphitheatric fashion on the slope of a hill overlooking the same-name fertile valley.
According to the mythological tradition, the name of the village (which refers to the black color) is derived from the locals’ mourning the mutual killing of the two semi-god giant brothers Otos and Ephialtes, sons of Apollo, who were thus punished by the chief god, Zeus, for displaying arrogance.
According to another, more rational version, the name is due to the valley’s dark soil.The settlement now numbers about 400 permanent residents who are mostly occupied with farming but are also reputed as skilled masons. 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲:𝗡𝗮𝘅𝗼𝘀.𝗴𝗿