Discover Naxos: Greece’s Hidden Gem of Sun, Sand, and Serenity! 🇬🇷✨

Exploring Naxos: A Hidden Gem in the Greek Islands

Good morning, wonderful wanderers! Welcome back! Today marks our second day on the captivating island of Naxos, Greece, where we set out to explore the untouched beauty of Aliko, a serene forested area devoid of modern constructions. Nestled near some picturesque beaches, this untouched corner of Naxos sets a perfect tone for our adventure.

Aliko is unlike other typical beaches filled with hotels and restaurants; instead, it offers a natural protected area showcasing the stunning contrasts of the rugged coastline. The roads leading here are made of dirt, which adds to the allure of this pristine destination. As we gaze at the stunning blue waters, we can’t help but feel excited about what’s to come.

We discovered that this beautiful beach is known as Hawaii Beach, and finding a path down was quite the challenge. After some light rock climbing, we managed to navigate our way. The wild waves, different from the calm waters we’ve experienced elsewhere, added an exhilarating vibe to this beach. Although compact in size, Hawaii Beach has unique nooks and crannies to settle down in, offering a cozy spot to relax.

However, the relentless sun beckoned us to be cautious. We quickly realized that sunscreen was a must, as there was little shade available. While my companion wasn’t keen on swimming due to the rocky bottom—having encountered sea urchins in the past—I enjoyed the refreshing breeze atop the cliffs and contemplated our next beach destination.

After a short while, as a sudden wave came crashing close our belongings, we decided it was time to seek a new beach to explore. The thrilling aspect of beach-hopping in Naxos is that every corner offers something different. We stumbled upon an intriguing artwork exhibition at what seemed to be an abandoned hotel; here, remnants of the past transformed into artistic masterpieces unfolded before our eyes.

As we proceeded between beaches, we discovered another stunning shoreline, blessed with serene waters and beautiful scenery. This part of Naxos has proven to be a haven for beach enthusiasts. The beaches here are known for their inviting shallow waters and crystal-clear visibility. With a vast array of stunning shorelines, it’s no wonder many deem Naxos the premier destination among the Greek islands.

After our sun-soaked beach adventures, we arrived in Naxos City, the capital and heart of the island. It was time for a well-deserved lunch, and with a myriad of restaurant choices lining each street, we knew we wouldn’t go hungry. We stumbled upon a delightful spot, enjoying delicious veal in red sauce paired with fresh fries and a refreshing fish burger—our entire meal costing a mere €20.70, including beverages. We were pleasantly surprised at how affordable dining was, given that we were in a popular tourist area.

Overall, Greece has exceeded our expectations in terms of value. Affordable meals have been a delightful revelation, especially when dining in scenic locales like the beachfront restaurants we’ve come across. The cost of accommodation has also been incredibly budget-friendly, with our apartment rental being just €45 per night, located conveniently near the beach—a rarity in many parts of Europe.

As sunset approached, we made our way to one of the most iconic spots in Naxos: the ancient Ruins of the Temple of Apollo. This magnificent structure, known as the Portara, offers stunning views and a taste of Naxos’s rich history. Built-in the 6th century BC, the temple was intended to be the largest in Greece but was left unfinished due to a war. Today, it stands as a reminder of the island’s storied past.

We then ventured into the enchanting old town, where narrow alleys and traditional architecture painted a vivid picture of history. Getting lost in the charming streets created an adventure of its own. Amid the medieval buildings, we stumbled upon welcoming cats and quaint shops, indulging in local craftsmanship and treasures.

As our time on Naxos came to a close, we sought the perfect spot to witness the setting sun, a fitting farewell to our favorite island. The culmination of Greek music and dance performances marked our last evening, an unforgettable experience that encapsulated the heart of Greek culture.

With heavy hearts but beautiful memories, we prepared to hop on a ferry to Mykonos, the next destination on our Greek island exploration. Be sure to stay tuned for our upcoming adventures on this iconic island!

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