Villa Darius is situated in the serene Kastraki area of Naxos, offering scenic views of the sea just south of Mikri Vigla. The property's proximity to the beach allows for easy access, with a short stroll leading directly to the shoreline. The surrounding landscape features traditional Cycladic white villas, contributing to the area's tranquil ambience. Within minutes, guests can reach several idyllic beaches including Kastraki, Parthena, Mikri Vigla, Plaka, and Orkos, each offering its own charm and amenities. Kastraki Beach, in particular, stands out for its fine white sand, clear waters, and waterfront tavernas, providing a secluded and peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy.
Named after the observatory atop the cape, Mikri Vigla holds historical significance as a lookout point between Naxos and Paros, once serving to protect the island and monitor trade routes. The area's mythological associations with legendary pirates add to its allure. Mikri Vigla's southern bay attracts watersports enthusiasts, boasting a renowned kite surfing school and favourable wind conditions. Nearby beaches like Plaka and Aliko offer additional opportunities for aquatic activities, while natural attractions such as the cedar forest at Aliko contribute to the area's scenic beauty. Further exploration reveals family-friendly destinations like Agios Prokopios and Agios Anna, each offering its own charm and amenities amidst picturesque surroundings.
Naxos Island presents visitors with a wealth of natural beauty, historical significance, and culinary delights. Renowned for its panoramic landscapes and sandy beaches, the island also boasts a vibrant main town, charming mountain villages, and a rich cultural heritage. From the mythological connections to its thriving dining scene, Naxos offers a multifaceted experience for travellers. Whether indulging in local delicacies, exploring ancient sites, or enjoying leisurely boat trips to secluded beaches, visitors are sure to find something to captivate their senses on this enchanting island.
The Region
As you sail into the island, be in awe of the Portara of Naxos, the vast marble gate to the Temple of Apollo. Crowds gather at the iconic emblem to admire the sun setting in this spectacular setting.
It’s not just Naxos’ rich history which attracts visitors to the largest island in the Cyclades. It may be relatively less known compared to Mykonos and Santorini yet those in the know come to Naxos for its glorious beaches, verdant landscapes and charming villages. Ferries arrive into Naxos town from Mykonos, Santorini, Piraeus and Rafina or you can fly into Naxos Airport from Athens.
Starting off in Naxos town, potter around the picturesque streets and soak up its rich heritage as you catch idyllic glimpses of the sea. Narrow lanes of bougainvillea-clad houses wind through the Kastro district towards the fortified Venetian castle. Get lost in the old town with its arched pathways, little shops and pretty cafes, spotting sleepy cats as you explore, and be enchanted by the authentic Greek charm all around you. As the evening approaches the town comes to life with its restaurants and cocktail bars, many with rooftop terraces and great views.
The sandy beaches near Naxos town are much loved by tourists and locals alike – hire summer sunbeds and parasols at the likes of Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna and make the most of the turquoise-coloured Aegean for snorkelling and diving. Seek slightly quieter shores further south as you come across the fine white sand of Plaka Beach and the more remote Hawaii Beach protected by rocks. Meanwhile, Mikri Vigla, also on the western coast, is popular with watersport enthusiasts (kite-surfing, windsurfing).
Then there’s the traditional villages dotted across the island amongst olive groves, citrus orchards, byzantine churches and mountains. Chalkio is often referred to as the most beautiful with its flower-filled lanes, white-washed houses, art galleries and traditional tavernas serving locally sourced dishes. Apeiranthos is another gem of Naxos with its unique architecture, marble alleys and museums alongside locally-owned shops and shady café terraces.
In spring and autumn, follow hiking trails between coast, mountains and historic villages, passing wild flowers, herbs, olive trees and ancient ruins, a fine way to appreciate Naxos’ incredible nature. Horse-riding excursions can be arranged with mountain and sea views (as well as donkey rides for younger guests) or explore the island by boat with day trips to visit the sea caves, rocky shores and even the neighbouring islands of Paros and Antiparos.
