"I first discovered Naxos, the Cyclades' largest island, way back in the late eighties and was instantly wooed by the winning combination of sand-dune-strewn beaches, traditional villages lined with tavernas serving local treats and jaw-dropping archaeological sites - I defy anyone to resist the romance of sailing into the main harbour of Naxos as the sun sets over the massive millennia-old marble Portara gate."
"I've returned every few years since then and I'm stunned to see how little this island two-hour's ferry hop from sizzling sister Santorini, has changed. Naxos still has some of the best (and least crowded) beaches of this sun-struck group of idyllic atolls; the archaeological sites are just as tranquil as way back then and there are still plenty of tavernas serving authentic food specialities."
"In fact, the only thing that's really changed is the island's hotel offering. Where once I stayed in basic rooms with outside bathrooms, these days I'm spoilt for choice when it comes to lovely accommodation. From a beachside beauty with an alfresco restaurant serving heritage specialties, to an elegant retreat with lagoon pool and spectacular sunset views."
Naxos, the Cyclades' largest island, has maintained its authentic charm and natural beauty over decades despite tourism development. The island features exceptional beaches with minimal crowds, tranquil archaeological sites including the iconic millennia-old marble Portara gate, and traditional villages with authentic tavernas serving local cuisine. Located two hours by ferry from Santorini, Naxos has resisted overdevelopment and commercialization. The primary transformation has been in accommodation options, evolving from basic rooms with external facilities to diverse luxury offerings including beachside resorts with heritage restaurants and elegant retreats featuring lagoon pools and sunset views. The island's core appeal—natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and local traditions—remains remarkably preserved.
Read at CN Traveller
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