Its famously delicious food, picturesque villages and beautiful beaches have made Naxos an increasingly popular destination over the years, as has its varied natural landscape. Adventure seekers and anyone wanting to enjoy island life and local culture beyond the restaurants and beaches will find several memorable activities to enjoy on the island, which is the largest in the Cyclades.

22

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just a nature lover, Naxos’ great array of hiking paths and activities are bound to keep you happily busy. Steep mountain trails or walks to tranquil beaches, cooking lessons, and mountain biking are some of the activities to be found on the island. Here we present you with some top hiking and adventure spots to try.

01

Mount Zas – The Highest Peak

At 1,004 meters, Mount Zas stands as the highest point in Naxos, making it a must-do for experienced hikers. The challenging climb begins in Filoti, taking you through rugged terrain, ancient olive groves, and rocky paths. Along the way, you can stop at the Cave of Zeus, to connect with the almighty ancient deity. Reaching the summit rewards adventurers with fantastic panoramic views over the island and beyond.

Trail Info: Starting in Filoti, the hike is moderate to difficult and takes around 3-4 hours. Best hiked during cooler months (spring or autumn) or by setting off very early in the morning during hotter months.

02

The Temple of Demeter

Located near the village of Sangri, the Temple of Demeter is an important archaeological site that dates back to the 6th century BC. The hike to this well-preserved temple takes you through peaceful rural landscapes, providing a perfect mix of nature and culture. The trail is fairly easy, making it suitable for all levels, and it’s ideal for those looking to combine experiencing the island’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Trail Info: A 1-1.5 hour moderate hike. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid the midday heat.

03

The Chora to Agios Prokopios Beach Trail

If you’re seeking a perfect combination of hiking and beach time, take the trail from Hora to Agios Prokopios beach. This five-kilometer route offers beautiful coastal views, with the opportunity to end with a refreshing and rewarding swim in crystal-clear waters. The path is relatively easy.

Trail Info: 5 kilometers, easy to moderate.

04

Apeiranthos Village Trail

		array(1) {
  [0]=>
  array(5) {
    ["file"]=>
    array(24) {
      ["ID"]=>
      int(280086)
      ["id"]=>
      int(280086)
      ["title"]=>
      string(23) "apeiranthos-4-1219x1536"
      ["filename"]=>
      string(30) "apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2.webp"
      ["filesize"]=>
      int(290974)
      ["url"]=>
      string(79) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2.webp"
      ["link"]=>
      string(136) "https://www.travel.gr/en/destinations-en/autumn-escape-to-naxos-with-culture-editor-tina-mandilara/attachment/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2/"
      ["alt"]=>
      string(11) "Apeiranthos"
      ["author"]=>
      string(2) "19"
      ["description"]=>
      string(11) "Apeiranthos"
      ["caption"]=>
      string(11) "Apeiranthos"
      ["name"]=>
      string(25) "apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2"
      ["status"]=>
      string(7) "inherit"
      ["uploaded_to"]=>
      int(279788)
      ["date"]=>
      string(19) "2023-09-27 14:05:28"
      ["modified"]=>
      string(19) "2024-04-25 13:07:09"
      ["menu_order"]=>
      int(0)
      ["mime_type"]=>
      string(10) "image/webp"
      ["type"]=>
      string(5) "image"
      ["subtype"]=>
      string(4) "webp"
      ["icon"]=>
      string(58) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-includes/images/media/default.png"
      ["width"]=>
      int(1219)
      ["height"]=>
      int(1536)
      ["sizes"]=>
      array(18) {
        ["thumbnail"]=>
        string(87) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2-150x150.webp"
        ["thumbnail-width"]=>
        int(150)
        ["thumbnail-height"]=>
        int(150)
        ["medium"]=>
        string(87) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2-238x300.webp"
        ["medium-width"]=>
        int(238)
        ["medium-height"]=>
        int(300)
        ["medium_large"]=>
        string(87) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2-768x968.webp"
        ["medium_large-width"]=>
        int(768)
        ["medium_large-height"]=>
        int(968)
        ["large"]=>
        string(88) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2-813x1024.webp"
        ["large-width"]=>
        int(813)
        ["large-height"]=>
        int(1024)
        ["1536x1536"]=>
        string(79) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2.webp"
        ["1536x1536-width"]=>
        int(1219)
        ["1536x1536-height"]=>
        int(1536)
        ["2048x2048"]=>
        string(79) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/apeiranthos-4-1219x1536-2.webp"
        ["2048x2048-width"]=>
        int(1219)
        ["2048x2048-height"]=>
        int(1536)
      }
    }
    ["desc"]=>
    bool(false)
    ["image_position"]=>
    string(6) "center"
    ["image_link_to"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["open_link_in_new_tab"]=>
    bool(false)
  }
}
Apeiranthos

Apeiranthos, known as the “marble village,” is one of the most picturesque locations on Naxos. The hike to this traditional village takes you through mountainous terrain and offers stunning views of valleys, old stone houses, and olive groves. Once there, you can explore the charming marble-paved village streets and admire the architecture in a peaceful atmosphere.

Trail Info: Moderate difficulty, approximately 3-4 hours.

05

Cooking Lessons at To Basiliko

Enjoy a hands-on culinary journey with outdoor cooking lessons at a local estate. This immersive experience is held in a serene garden, with participants harvesting fresh ingredients and then preparing authentic Naxian recipes under expert guidance. Alongside cooking, enjoy a leisurely walk through the lush surroundings, learning about local agriculture. The session concludes with a communal meal of your concoctions, paired with house-made wine.

Activity info: Contact To Basiliko to book your spot.

06

Naxos Skyline Hiking Tours

		array(1) {
  [0]=>
  array(5) {
    ["file"]=>
    array(24) {
      ["ID"]=>
      int(430471)
      ["id"]=>
      int(430471)
      ["title"]=>
      string(6) "naxos2"
      ["filename"]=>
      string(10) "naxos2.jpg"
      ["filesize"]=>
      int(533369)
      ["url"]=>
      string(59) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2.jpg"
      ["link"]=>
      string(110) "https://www.travel.gr/en/experiences-ee/activities-en/naxos-best-hiking-and-adventure-spots/attachment/naxos2/"
      ["alt"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["author"]=>
      string(2) "19"
      ["description"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["caption"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["name"]=>
      string(6) "naxos2"
      ["status"]=>
      string(7) "inherit"
      ["uploaded_to"]=>
      int(430341)
      ["date"]=>
      string(19) "2025-01-09 15:36:41"
      ["modified"]=>
      string(19) "2025-01-09 15:36:41"
      ["menu_order"]=>
      int(0)
      ["mime_type"]=>
      string(10) "image/jpeg"
      ["type"]=>
      string(5) "image"
      ["subtype"]=>
      string(4) "jpeg"
      ["icon"]=>
      string(58) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-includes/images/media/default.png"
      ["width"]=>
      int(1440)
      ["height"]=>
      int(1440)
      ["sizes"]=>
      array(18) {
        ["thumbnail"]=>
        string(67) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2-150x150.jpg"
        ["thumbnail-width"]=>
        int(150)
        ["thumbnail-height"]=>
        int(150)
        ["medium"]=>
        string(67) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2-300x300.jpg"
        ["medium-width"]=>
        int(300)
        ["medium-height"]=>
        int(300)
        ["medium_large"]=>
        string(67) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2-768x768.jpg"
        ["medium_large-width"]=>
        int(768)
        ["medium_large-height"]=>
        int(768)
        ["large"]=>
        string(69) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2-1024x1024.jpg"
        ["large-width"]=>
        int(1024)
        ["large-height"]=>
        int(1024)
        ["1536x1536"]=>
        string(59) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2.jpg"
        ["1536x1536-width"]=>
        int(1440)
        ["1536x1536-height"]=>
        int(1440)
        ["2048x2048"]=>
        string(59) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos2.jpg"
        ["2048x2048-width"]=>
        int(1440)
        ["2048x2048-height"]=>
        int(1440)
      }
    }
    ["desc"]=>
    bool(false)
    ["image_position"]=>
    string(6) "center"
    ["image_link_to"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["open_link_in_new_tab"]=>
    bool(false)
  }
}

For those looking for a guided hiking experience, Naxos Skyline provides expert-led tours across some of the island’s most stunning trails. With knowledgeable guides, you can explore the best of Naxos, from the peaks of Mount Zas to coastal routes that reveal hidden beaches and panoramic views. The tours cater to all levels, ensuring a tailored and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Activity Info: Guided tours suitable for all levels. Book through Naxos Skyline Hiking.

07

Kalados Bay Adventure

For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, the trail to Kalados Bay is perfect for those seeking solitude and rugged landscapes. Located in the northern part of the island, the hike takes you through pristine terrain, with incredible views of the Aegean Sea and Naxos’ wild beauty.

Trail Info: Remote and challenging, suitable for experienced hikers. A full-day experience.

08

Naxos Bike Tours

		array(1) {
  [0]=>
  array(5) {
    ["file"]=>
    array(24) {
      ["ID"]=>
      int(430458)
      ["id"]=>
      int(430458)
      ["title"]=>
      string(16) "naxos bike tours"
      ["filename"]=>
      string(20) "naxos-bike-tours.jpg"
      ["filesize"]=>
      int(493333)
      ["url"]=>
      string(69) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours.jpg"
      ["link"]=>
      string(120) "https://www.travel.gr/en/experiences-ee/activities-en/naxos-best-hiking-and-adventure-spots/attachment/naxos-bike-tours/"
      ["alt"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["author"]=>
      string(2) "19"
      ["description"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["caption"]=>
      string(0) ""
      ["name"]=>
      string(16) "naxos-bike-tours"
      ["status"]=>
      string(7) "inherit"
      ["uploaded_to"]=>
      int(430341)
      ["date"]=>
      string(19) "2025-01-09 15:14:50"
      ["modified"]=>
      string(19) "2025-01-09 15:14:50"
      ["menu_order"]=>
      int(0)
      ["mime_type"]=>
      string(10) "image/jpeg"
      ["type"]=>
      string(5) "image"
      ["subtype"]=>
      string(4) "jpeg"
      ["icon"]=>
      string(58) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-includes/images/media/default.png"
      ["width"]=>
      int(985)
      ["height"]=>
      int(1078)
      ["sizes"]=>
      array(18) {
        ["thumbnail"]=>
        string(77) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours-150x150.jpg"
        ["thumbnail-width"]=>
        int(150)
        ["thumbnail-height"]=>
        int(150)
        ["medium"]=>
        string(77) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours-274x300.jpg"
        ["medium-width"]=>
        int(274)
        ["medium-height"]=>
        int(300)
        ["medium_large"]=>
        string(77) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours-768x841.jpg"
        ["medium_large-width"]=>
        int(768)
        ["medium_large-height"]=>
        int(841)
        ["large"]=>
        string(78) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours-936x1024.jpg"
        ["large-width"]=>
        int(936)
        ["large-height"]=>
        int(1024)
        ["1536x1536"]=>
        string(69) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours.jpg"
        ["1536x1536-width"]=>
        int(985)
        ["1536x1536-height"]=>
        int(1078)
        ["2048x2048"]=>
        string(69) "https://www.travel.gr/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/naxos-bike-tours.jpg"
        ["2048x2048-width"]=>
        int(985)
        ["2048x2048-height"]=>
        int(1078)
      }
    }
    ["desc"]=>
    bool(false)
    ["image_position"]=>
    string(6) "center"
    ["image_link_to"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["open_link_in_new_tab"]=>
    bool(false)
  }
}

Cycling enthusiasts will love the bike tours available on Naxos. With a variety of routes that cover the island’s coastline, villages, and mountainous terrain, these tours allow you to explore Naxos in a unique way. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride along the beach or a more challenging mountain route, Naxos bike tours cater to all skill levels and provide a great way to experience the island’s diverse landscapes.

Activity Info: Routes for cyclists of all levels. Local bike tours are available, with bike rentals and guides. Visit Naxos Bike Tours for more details.

09

Agios Georgios Beach Watersports

If you prefer water-based activities, Agios Giorgos Beach is the place to be. The beach is known for its excellent conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. With calm waters and consistent winds, it’s an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts. Local schools provide lessons and equipment rental, making it easy to dive right into the fun.

Activity Info: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding lessons and rentals available. Ideal for summer activities. Visit Agios Georgios Watersports for more info.

10

Rhina Cave Sea Kayaking Tour

Explore the natural wonders of Naxos on a guided sea kayaking tour to Rina Cave. Paddle along the island’s rugged coastline, passing secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs before reaching the striking sea cave. Stop to swim in its reviving waters or snorkel. The journey offers a balance of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of time to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Aegean. It is ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking an active yet scenic outdoor experience in the water.

Activity info: Find them on Viator for more info. An all-day experience.