Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands, it extends for 440 km: 50 km long by 30 wide.
Curiously, it is known for the cultivation of potatoes. A Potato Festival takes place every year on September 1st.
Naxos also produces emery, which is found in large quantities on the slopes of mount Amomaxis.
One of the centers of Cycladic civilization, the history of the Island is long and fascinating… A Roman Province, then a Byzantine one and later a Turkish domain, Naxos was finally annexed to the newly founded Greek State on February 3rd 1830, along with the other islands.
The center of the island is dominated by Mount Zas, which, with its 1004 meters high, is the highest mountain of the Cyclades.
There are about 150 km of coastline and wonderful sandy beaches, especially west of the island, while the north and northeast coasts are wild and rocky.
Beautiful green hills define the hinterland of the island, with olive trees and vineyards.
Naxos is ideal for those who appreciate the sea and the bright, quiet beaches that indeed, every summer, attract so many visitors from all over the world!
The west coast
An immense, almost endless sandy beach extends from Saint George to Agiassos. The sea is clear and beautiful. There are both free or equipped beaches. And remember that, like almost all Greek islands, the wind always blows, attracting windsurf and kitesurf enthusiasts.
The north coast
North coast is mostly composed of large rocks overlooking the sea, offering breath-taking views. Even here, one can find, however, off the beaten path beach corners, such as Amitis Bay or Abram Bay, tiny and less crowded, yet amazing.
The east coast
Beautiful views are to be found along the rocky northeast cost, while southeast is flat and sandy. With the exception of the small fishing marinas of Apollonas and Moutsouna, these beaches are generally little known.
A car will allow you to reach the east cost form Chora in just over an hour.
Apollonas, set in the northern-east coast is a small fishing centre, where taverns, little shops and restaurants overlook the beautiful sea!
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Moutsouna, also a fishing station, is equipped with lovely taverns directly set on the beach.
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A 30 minutes ride from Moutsouna to Panormos will be both a spectacular way to enjoy a unique view and a quick way to reach Panormos beach, probably the most famous one, with its palm trees lined up along the shore.
Azalas, Lygaridia, Psili Ammos, Klidos are all great alternative stops along the way.
Lionas is a rocky cove where a couple of fish taverns next to the water are just ideal to enjoy some seafood, after a relaxing swim in a deep blue sea!
South coast
Due to the total lack of roads in the south of the island, Kalados Bay, will be the last place to be reached by car in about an hour ride from Chora.
An overwhelming beauty, a place to be lulled by the light breeze, while lying on the golden sand in front of the bluest sea!
Read also our articles about Naxos.
