It was on Naxos that an ungrateful Theseus is said to have abandoned Ariadne after she helped him escape the Cretan labyrinth. In keeping with even mythic soap opera, she didn’t pine long, and was soon entwined with Dionysos, the god of wine and ecstasy and the island’s favorite deity. Naxian wine has long been considered a fine antidote for a broken heart.
The island was a cultural centre of classical Greece and of Byzantium. Venetian and Frankish influences have left their mark.
The land is impressive, the mountains, the plains, the rock formations, the green valleys, the arid areas and the dreamlike beaches contribute to its uniqueness. Naxos has the highest mountain in the Cyclades, Zas (Zeus), rising to 1004m.
In the mountainous interior you find enchanting villages such as Halki, Koronos, Filoti and Apiranthos. There are numerous fine beaches and the island is a wonderful place to explore on foot, as many old paths between villages, churches and other sights still survive.
Getting to Naxos
- You can fly to Athens and then take a domestic flight or take a ferry or catamaran from Piraeus or Rafina ports.
- Alternatively you can fly with a charter flight to Mykonos or Santorini and then take one of the regular ferry connections to Naxos.
If you need assistance with the schedules we can help you plan your journey in the most efficient way.