The biggest and most fertile island of the Cyclades is Naxos. With a population of approximately 20.000 , of which the average age is considered to be young, Naxos island is among the most densely populated islands in the Aegean. The island indeed is a beauty with its green, atmospheric villages, outstanding sandy beaches, blue green water, ancient sites, self-sufficient, not lacking anything at all.
Duchy of the Aegean, Naxos with the unique architecture of many of the interior villages, towers and fortified mansions scattered throughout the island. Not to mention the eastern side of the island which has a singular character a mark by the medieval Cretan refugees. Naxos is truly self sufficient, relying on its production of potatoes, olives, grapes, lemons and far more.
The main city of Naxos, Hora, is a web of steep cobbled alleys with the color and bustle for a city and port, filled with the hubbub of tourism and shopping. But it is no need for disappointments as a few miles away from Hora there are isolated ideal beaches that offers the tranquility many need on holiday.
The old town which is settled on the west coast, is divided into two historic Venetian neighborhoods. The first is Bourgos, where the Greeks lived and the other one is hilltop Kastro, where the Roman Catholics lived. Although Hora is fairly large, can still be easily managed on foot. Just about everybody’s favorite village is Apiranthos, with some marble-paved streets, a particularly handsome Venetian tower, and small shaded squares.
It was on Naxos that an ungrateful Theseus is said to have abandoned Ariadne after she helped him escape the Cretan labyrinth. She didn’t pine long, and was soon entwined with Dionysos, the god of wine and ecstasy and the island’s favourite deity.
The island has plenty to see if you know where to look: the highest mountains in the Cyclades, intriguing central valleys, a spectacular north coast and long, marvelously sandy beaches in the southwest. It is also renowned for its wines, cheese, sharp kefalotyri and milder graviera and citron, a sweet liqueur available in green, yellow or clear, distilled from the leaves of this citrus tree.
The island also draws outdoor enthusiasts, with kiteboarding off the sandy southern beaches, and traditional footpaths to follow between villages, churches and other sights.
Naxos lies on the south side of Aegean Sea surrounded by Paros, Iraklia, Koufonisia and Donousa. The islands geographic coordinates are 37°04’27.4″N 25°27’35.4″E.
