Naxos, getting to know the heart of the island 💜

Why trust this guide? My Naxian Roots 🫜

I return to Naxos almost every year. My family’s roots run deep in its mountains. My father comes from a tiny village called Skado, tucked high in the rugged heart of the island. My great-grandfather, was born and raised there (first a miner in the emery quarries, then a village priest). Together with his wife, they raised twelve children, one of them my grandmother, Vasiliki, whose name I proudly carry. Because of these ties, I was lucky enough to walk these mountain paths and lingered in these villages. I’ve seen the quiet side of Naxos that most travelers miss, the side where life moves at the pace of the land, and where hospitality still feels like a way of life. This guide is built from those visits, stories, and connections.

Mountain Villages you must wander 🏡

Far from the neon glow of Chora, Naxos reveals its true self in the folds of its mountains. These villages are not just stops on a map; they are living stories, where time stretches and the past lingers in the scent of woodsmoke and fresh bread.

Walking the old paths: Hikes through Naxos’ heart 🥾

Naxos is stitched together by ancient footpaths. Walking them is more than a hike; it’s a way to step into the island’s past. 🥾Hiking Trail 4: Circular route from Chalki Village ⏳2h10’ Distance: 7,2 km Difficulty: Moderate Max elevation: 200m Tips: - starts from Chalki village and ends there - sun protection, water and comfortable shoes will be helpful - combines cultural points and nature - you will see Byzantine churches and wildflowers - leave the doors you might find on your path as you found them (closed or open) 🥾Hiking Trail 7: Towards the Ancient Temple of Dimitra ⏳2h15’ Distance: 7,2 km Difficulty: Moderate Max elevation: 300m Tips: - path begins at Tsikalario village - sun protection, water and comfortable shoes will be helpful - combines cultural points and nature - the archeological site is amazing - there is also a museum near the temple (call to check hours of operation) 🥾Hiking Trail 2: Circular route from Filoti to Mount Zas’ top ⏳5h20’ Distance: 12.8 km Difficulty: Challenging Max elevation: 600m Max Altitude: 1000m Tips: - path begins at Filoti village - sun protection, water and comfortable shoes will be helpful - Aria Spring is a good place to rest - you pass by the Zas cave - you pass by the village of Danakos, one of the oldest settlements in Naxos - the archeological site is amazing - the path in the end includes some walking on the asphalt road, so be careful for the vehicles. Visit naxostrek.com for more details on the hikes.

Spots I love 🫆

Scattered across Naxos are places that always pull me back: quiet viewpoints where the island unfolds beneath you, and ancient stones that still hum with history. They’re not always easy to find.

The hidden shores 🌴

These are not the beaches of Chora. They’re harder to reach, sometimes windswept, and often empty. But for those willing to wander a little further, they offer something rare: calm and quiet.

Where to eat 🥗

Every corner of Naxos serves up good food, but if you’re craving flavors away from the crowds, these spots will take you deeper into the island’s soul. Beyond the beaten path, you’ll taste Naxos as the locals do: simple and fresh.