Endless Blue: Walking in Naxos & Amorgos

On arrival in Mykonos, we will transfer that short distance to the port and catch the boat to Naxos (journey time approx. 1 hour). As the ferry arcs toward the island you catch the first glimpse of the Portara, a large marble gateway on the headland, all that remains of an ancient temple to Apollo, that has become an iconic landmark on the island, especially at sunset.  On arrival transfer to the Naxos Beach Hotel for a four-night stay. After check-in and a short orientation meeting, we will walk the short distance to the picturesque old town capital of Naxos and enjoy dinner altogether at a traditional restaurant.

Today’s walk begins at the famous Kouroi 'twins', life size Cycladic statues that have been in this spot in the Naxos countryside for close to 2600 years.   From here our walk takes us to the 'Upper Castle', part of a former Venetian stronghold, and then onwards through age-old olive groves dotted with phrygana and maquis to our final destination, one of the island's most beautiful villages, Chalki. At the end of the walk we will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before returning to our hotel.

Naxos is home to the highest mountain in the Cyclades, Mount Zeus (1003 m), and today's walk, which takes us to the top of it, is probably the most epic one in the region. When climbing it you'll get the distinct feeling that Greek mythology is actually rooted in reality! Mount Zeus has always held important historical significance because local Greeks believed that the cave, on the northwest flanks of the mountain, was the birthplace of the God Zeus (although, according to legends on other islands, this isn't his only birth place!). This afternoon will be free to relax and enjoy as you wish. If you enjoy swimming, which is a great way to relax your body after walking, take advantage of one of the nearby beaches that are easily accessible from the hotel.

Today’s walk takes us through the scenic valley of Tragea, dotted with Byzantine churches that offer different architectural styles from various eras. One of them, Panagia Drosiani, dating to the 6th century AD, is considered one of Naxos’ most significant Christian monuments. From here, we head towards the village of Moni and after a short break under the shade of the trees, we continue to the tiny scenic villages of Kaloxylos and Akadimoi. There, we find the Markopolitis three-level tower, one of the very few towers constructed by a local instead of a Venetian lord.  Return to the hotel, rest of the day at leisure.

This morning we have time to return and enjoy Naxos town at leisure, an opportunity to explore the impressive architecture of the Venetian castle that sits just above the town. Early afternoon we take the ferry to the island of Amorgos (approx. 90 mins), the most eastern of the Cycladic Islands. This small peaceful island, where the residents are mostly fishermen or farmers, provided a setting for Luc Besson's wonderful 1988 film: 'The Big Blue'. Check-in to the Skopelitis Hotel for a three-night stay. Evening at leisure.

Amorgos’ landscape is famous for its wild herbs that grow in abundance everywhere on the island. During today's walk you will experience the calm silence, authentic island scenery and some of the most breathtaking views of the Aegean. This beautiful 8 kilometer loop walk links the traditional village of Langada with the monastery of Epanochoriani and the village of Tholaria. The cobble stone paths takes you high up, amidst the enclosing circle of hills dotted with small white churches, a patchwork of stone walls and lush vegetation. We will enjoy lunch altogether before returning to the hotel.

From Asfondylitis we follow cobbled mule paths all the way to the monastery of Chozoviotisa. Clinging high above the turquoise sea and nestled like an aerie is one of Greece’s most extraordinary old Byzantine monasteries and religious gems. After this impressive sight, we continue our walk and finish at Chora, the islands picturesque capital. At 400 metres above sea level, it is an impressive sight, a rock wrapped with a 13th-century Venetian castle that looks down on a clutch of whitewashed houses and churches. Return to the hotel for some relaxation before dinner altogether at a local restaurant.

Catch the early morning boat to Mykonos and connect with the return flight to London Gatwick.