Naxos Hiking

Naxos island is a hiking paradise. It’s the only Cycladic island with such large mainland and highlands, Naxos is a natural gem, blessed with endless hiking paths. There’re at least 480 Km of mountain hiking paths for those who love nature and want to walk the island’s trails. Naxos hiking is rich in nature and history, offering some of the best hikes in Cyclades.  There is so much hiking out here that stands out as amazing, astounding, and downright breathtaking…

It’s not only blue skies and beach bars on the island. Naxos has a surprising variety of trails to tempt visitors way from the sun chair and into nature. Each reveals a different side to the island’s character, challenging and rewarding travelers in a variety of ways.

In a cluster of 24 inhabited islands, Naxos is the largest of the Cycladic islands, and it’s filled with a plethora of things to do and things to see. Expect impressive landscape, rugged highlands, sharp cliffs, gentle slopes, charming glades with unique flora and fauna, gorges, ravines, waterfalls, lunar landscape, watermills, olive groves, hikes that end up to shores. Wander through adorable villages, stride through cobblestone alleys and stone archways.

Whether you are an experienced hiker or trail runner who is interested in challenging treks, or a beginner who enjoys short hikes to admire beautiful scenery while on holiday, you’ll find what you are looking for in Naxos.

• Naxos hiking offers you stupendous elevated view points: Feel the powerful vibes of a Greek Cycladic island with sensational feelings from the mountains’ vantage top. Enjoy amazing natural vistas of the island, and of other islands of the Aegean such as Paros, Amorgos, Mykonos, Koufonisia, Donousa, Kea, Makares, Ikaria.

•  Naxos hiking trails offer you history knowledge. They familiarize your with Greek history, the Cycaldic civilization, local life and tradition that flourished many centuries ago. Walk ancient network of paths, paths through villages where you can explore ancient Greek temples, archaeological findings, glorious Byzantine churches, Venetian towers, and folklore museums.

• Naxos hiking offers you a unique cultural exposure and a taste of authenticity. Pass through quaint mountainous villages and admire the buildings’architecture , pretty white-washed houses, picturesque fishing ports, connect with friendly and hospitable islanders, indulge yourself with delicious homemade local delicacies, and listen to folk music. And when you sip on a shot of raki from a local kafeneion, you’ll know you’ve earned it.

• Naxos hiking offers you a hike and swim combination. Feel good, some trails end up on the beach! Have the pleasure of experiencing the island’s natural beauty in combined experiences. Hit the beach at the end of your hike, and feel refreshed!

Is ELaiolithos a good Naxos hiking base?

ELaiolithos serves as the perfect hub for Naxos hiking adventures. Situated centrally on the island, at a unique junction where roads diverge into three directions, ELaiolithos offers easy accessibility to explore. Many of Naxos’ key hiking trails either originate or pass through here, surrounded by an array of scenic routes. The natural geology of ELaiolithos’ surroundings caters to eco-travelers, offering diverse landscapes to explore. Each day presents a new hiking trail right outside your doorstep.

Celebrate your stay at ELaiolithos, where you’ll experience the best of both worlds: immersed in all the action while enjoying tranquil seclusion.

Here at ELaiolithos, experience the perfect blend of liveliness and privacy, warmth without scorching heat. With temperatures consistently 3°C-4°C cooler than Naxos town, our central location away from the crowds makes the retreat an ideal base for discovering Naxos intimately. Feel the difference and enjoy genuine Naxos hiking experiences right around the corner.

We look forward to welcoming you to your Naxos holiday experience!!! ELaiolithos combines the best of both worlds: mountains and the beach!

Uncover the undiscovered and enjoy comfortable accommodations at a hotel situated in the heart of Naxos, surrounded by hiking trails and the bliss of Naxian landscapes.

Savor healthy delights with our amazing organic local cuisine, emphasizing clean eating and detox. All our produce comes exclusively from our own farms within a 5 km distance. Indulge in superb local breakfasts, lunches, brunches, or dinners, and unwind on our beautiful veranda with breathtaking vistas.

ELaiolithos immerses your senses in unique images and aromas, aiming to bring the natural and cultural wealth of Naxos, especially its mountainous region, closer to every visitor. Discover its rich history, experience its unique customs and traditions, savor its exceptional quality local products, indulge in raki and local organic wine, and simply have fun. At ELaiolithos, we share our passion for nature and Naxos, transforming it into new, real, unique, and unforgettable experiences for all of you!

Upon your arrival, we unveil all the exciting options for the diverse hiking trails, offering insights from a local’s perspective to assist you in selecting the perfect trail tailored to your abilities and interests. Our aim is to guarantee a thoroughly enjoyable experience in Naxos. Rely on us for comprehensive guidance to get the most out of your journey here.

Should I hike alone in Naxos island?

Yes, indeed, hiking in Naxos alone is definitely safe. Just let us know your hiking plan ideas, and we’ll help you make suitable trail choices so you can embark on your adventure of choice – safely. Additionally, we check in with you frequently to ensure you’re doing well.

We make your solo travel experience very easy, both logistically and psychologically!

Is there someone I can check in and out with just to be safe?

We ensure a warm welcome and attentive service for everyone here at ELaiolithos, from check-in to check-out and beyond. We maintain ongoing communication with our guests to ensure a seamless experience throughout. As avid hikers ourselves, we enthusiastically welcome fellow adventurers and strive to establish genuine connections with each visitor. Remember, we’ve walked in your shoes throughout our lives! Drawing from our extensive travel experiences and deep local knowledge, we understand the true essence of exploring the world and our own locale.

Should I be concerned about snakes and scorpions?

Naxos is relatively safe in terms of venomous snakes and insects. There are no snakes on Naxos that pose a danger to humans. Occasionally, someone may encounter a snake, but sightings of vipers are rare among locals. There have been no recorded deaths from snake bites in Naxos for decades.

There’re 4 types of snakes on the island:

1. Known in Greek as astritis,  known in English as Vipera berus. Its venom is less potent than that of tsand viper,

• Greek name “ohia”, known in English as sand viper or horned viper. It’s venom is probably the worst of all Greek vipers, in fact, this viper will warn when provoked by producing a whistling sound.  They eat mice. The viper does not attack humans for fun, it must be threatened to attack. Not every attack of the viper is poisonous. Usually the first bite is not poison containing, like a warning. They may be lethal if you have an underlying sensitivity, allergy or heart problems
•  Dendrogalia snake, completely harmless. They’re active when temperatures are high, so best avoid walking without proper clothing and boots in tall grass and rock areas during mid summer. If you make enough noise while walking, like stamping your feet, they will get out of your way, as they are shy.
• Ringed grass snakes, they do not bite and they’re harmless to humans, non-venomous snakes, found near water and feed on amphibians and mice. 

A good rule to follow is to always be aware of where you place your hands and feet. Snakebites are rare and occur mostly when people attempt to handle snakes. Do not attempt to capture or otherwise molest any wildlife. If wildlife is left alone and no provocation occurs, there wouldn’t be unpleasant consequences. If bitten, contact a ranger by signaling or sending someone for help.

Bites from a snake are very rare. No one remembers any death by snake bite in Naxos for decades. But if it happens and you get bitten, seeking medical help is recommended. Anyways,  any animal bite should be examined by a physician and monitored for signs of infection.

Will my cell phone work in Naxos?

Cell phone service throughout much of Naxos is generally reliable, so there’s no need to worry. We always advise you accordingly based on the hiking trail you plan to follow, including any potential signal difficulties and what steps to take. For your peace of mind, rest assured that we’re here for you every step of the way during your hiking experience in Naxos.

What time of the day is the best for hiking in Naxos?

Hiking is basically walking in the nature, whether you’re hiking alone or with company. In Naxos island, the best hours for hiking are early in the morning between 6am and 12pm, and in the afternoon between 5pm and 8pm. During those hours it’s ideal because:

• the sun is not very hot, and
• your body is at its top performance and full energy

If you hike uphill in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, 12pm and 4 pm, you have to be cautious because the air here is mostly dry and hot, sweat evaporates instantly making its loss almost imperceptible, and you might get dehydrated.  It’s always a good idea to wear a broad-brimmed hat to help you keep a cool head in hot weather.

What season is best for hiking in Naxos?

Most people believe that the best season for hiking starts in Spring and ends in Fall. However, in Naxos island almost never gets very hot, and you can usually stroll through the island also in the summer, unlike any other Mediterranean places where the summer is hot and not recommended. Meaning ALL seasons in Naxos are good for hiking. Naxos hiking trails never get crowded, even the popular ones. You can always be able to take photos of scenery instead of tourists.

There’s not any season more special than another for hiking in Naxos.  Therefore, your decision must be based according to what you would like to experience:

1. What Naxos’ nature offers in each season, and
2. how crowded the island gets

For climate and temperatures you can be further advised here.

SPRING:  This is a great time to visit Naxos if you’re not primarily interested in the beaches. The landscape starts to blossom, and everything starts getting green. The light is ideal for photography, the produce starts, warm moderate temperatures, sunny days start to get longer, crowds are thinner,  the nights are lovely with a light jacket, ideal for hiking, and exploration. Average high temperature: 21.9°C (71.4°F)

• Enjoy also traditional flair: The Easter period is recommended as it’s one of the most important celebrations in Greece, and you’ll have the chance to experience traditional feasts and gatherings.

SUMMER: Summer in Naxos runs from June to mid September, the weather is warm and sunny, but also windy, with the highs of about 35°C (85°F). July pleases Naxos visitors and locals with comfortable temperatures and sunny days, amazing for spending time on the beach. July and August is the peak windy period due to the Meltemi wind season. Tourism and temperatures remain at their peak on Naxos in August.

FALL:  mid September – end of November, warm seas, gentle weather, autumn flowers and amazing colors, magnificent sky and clouds, clear air, high visibility, breezy early morning and late afternoon. Grapes, olive harvests, raki making are in September-November 

WINTER: from December to mid-March, is mild, most days are sunny, occasionally it rains and lasts for few hours, gets windy. The frequent and sometimes intense wind intensifies the feeling of cold. Sometimes, cold air masses from the North bring cold days, with highs below 10 °C (50 °F), and rarely snows, maybe in the mountains.  The coldest month on Naxos is January, with an average high of 14.3°C (57.7°F)

Hiking around Naxos is one of the best ways to experience more of the island. There’s a trail for every level of endeavor and specialist interest in Naxos, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Although finding the right route can be a bit tricky, due to its large size, Naxos offers a diverse range of trails to explore. As an island of mesmerizing natural beauty and rich cultural background, Naxos presents a unique challenge and opportunity for eco adventures.

Naxos hiking trails are ranging from:

• Easy-going trails – suitable for every member of the family and beginners,
• Moderate trails – suitable for all physically fit people
• Moderately Strenuous – longer hiking trails about 4 hours, substantial elevation gain, and difficult terrain
• Strenuous, hard & difficult – long over 6 hours hike, or full day’s hike over mountain summits, villages, substantial elevation differences, and often difficult routes

Are there water springs on hiking routes?

The only hiking route that has water but in the beginning of the trail is the one to Mount Zeus from the side of Aria Spring. Most Naxos hiking trails do not have water, you need to get your own water and supplies.

Which Naxos hiking trails you recommend? 

Ascend ancient rugged mountains amidst natural scenery, venture through historical landscape, culture  and in one of the most important landscapes in Greek Mythology.

We recommend the following hiking trails:

1. Mount Zas from Arion Spring-Zas Cave-Summit-down to Aghia Marina
2. ELaiolithos – Monoitsia – Saint George Diasoritis – Chalkio – Kaloxylos – Moni – ELaiolithos (This circular hiking trail comes highly recommended, offering a plethora of sights to behold)
3. ELaiolithos – Moni-Mount Fanari – Apiranthos
4. Koronos village to Lionas Bay
5. ELaiolithos-Marble Quarries -Upper Castle – Tsikalario – Chalkio

Why Hiking Lovers love ELaiolithos?

ELaiolithos transcends mere lodging; it embodies a lifestyle where your soul finds its sanctuary, and you’re always embraced as family. We firmly believe that exceptional hiking experiences begin with genuine hospitality! Make yourself at home, revel in our abundance of hiking trails, and create unforgettable adventures. Operating with a keen sense of responsibility, ELaiolithos stands nestled among endless olive groves, offering a tranquil, eco-friendly haven that’s both sustainable and blissfully laid-back.

After your invigorating hike, unwind in the comfort of your suite or on your veranda, soaking in breathtaking views. Indulge in delectable local cuisine, crafted drinks, and perhaps the finest smoothies you’ve ever savored!

For further insight into Naxos hiking trails, dive into a comprehensive guide here

Map: The Best Trails near ELaiolithos Luxury Retreat in Naxos