Naxos

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, and contains that island group’s highest point (Mount Zas, 3,295 feet), yet it is nowhere near as well-known as other islands such as Mykonos and Santorini. This is surprising as it also has some really beautiful beaches, and is a much more fertile island. It is this fertility, though, producing grapes, olives, oranges, lemons, figs, potatoes, corn, and other fruit and vegetables, which means it has never needed to attract the tourist trade as much as some other islands. Naxos has its natural crops rather than its cash crops of visitors. It also has a reputation for fine wine, and Dionysus has long ...

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades, and contains that island group’s highest point (Mount Zas, 3,295 feet), yet it is nowhere near as well-known as other islands such as Mykonos and Santorini. This is surprising as it also has some really beautiful beaches, and is a much more fertile island. It is this fertility, though, producing grapes, olives, oranges, lemons, figs, potatoes, corn, and other fruit and vegetables, which means it has never needed to attract the tourist trade as much as some other islands. Naxos has its natural crops rather than its cash crops of visitors. It also has a reputation for fine wine, and Dionysus has long been the islanders’ favorite of all the Gods. In later days, some fine castles, monasteries and churches were built here, providing today’s visitor with plenty to explore and enjoy. There are several museums scattered around the island, and some unspoiled mountain villages too, to lure you off the beaten track.

About the Expert

Mike Gerrard is the author of the National Geographic Traveler Guide to Greece, as well as guides to Athens, Crete, Corfu, the Greek Mainland, and the Greek islands for publishers including AA, AAA, Thomas Cook, Dorling Kindersley, Michelin, and New Holland. With his wife Donna Dailey, he also publishes the Greece Travel Secrets website.