Under the spell of Naxos
The island of Naxos combines the best of the Cyclades: sandy beaches, mountain villages, ancient ruins, olive groves, vineyards, breathtaking views, gastronomy… This summer, a new address has been added where you can unpack your suitcase, your fouta and your straw hat: the Laguna Coast Resort.
Naxos, the largest and highest island in the Cyclades, is also one of the most lush. It's also the most complete in terms of landscapes and activities… A true microcosm of everything that makes the Greek archipelago so irresistibly magical.
Beyond the tourist hotspots of Naxos, the peaceful Laguna region, on the western tip, unfolds across 190 hectares of protected wetland, bordered by mountains and forests. A member of the Considerate Collection of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, which brings together the label's most committed sustainable establishments, the Laguna Coast Resort has just opened amidst this captivating natural environment, nestled between lagoon, marshes, and a lake teeming with migratory birds. While the bustling main town, also called Naxos, is only 3 kilometers away, this is a completely different world, contemporary and intimate, created from scratch while respecting the natural environment: 9 villas and 15 suites, all with a pool or jacuzzi, a large communal pool, a spa, a golf course, an outdoor fitness area, two restaurants, a long private beach, botanical gardens, a birdwatching area… The resort's concept is based on harmony with nature, a source of well-being. The architecture, with its simple lines and minimalist design in neutral colors, encourages relaxation. The property, and especially the lakeside area, is dotted with outdoor artworks, including sculptures – a selection that will be regularly updated.
All the activities offered to guests, both in the resort and outside, celebrate the beauty of the place and the historical heritage of the island: sports classes facing the hills where Neanderthals lived, cooking lessons under old quarries, walks, horseback rides or electric bike rides in the surrounding area, catamaran trips, snorkeling near the ancient port, sunset picnics on the small island of Manto… And to quietly end the evening, why not a movie under the stars?
Things to see and do in Naxos
dream beaches
A protected area, preserved from development that could spoil the landscape, the Alyko region is known for its cedar forests, but also and especially for its beach of the same name. Fine sand, golden rocks, shallow turquoise water: a true postcard scene. Its neighbor, Hawaii, is renowned for diving. Other equally beautiful coves and beaches are quite isolated, and there are no signs to guide you. It is therefore advisable to inquire in advance about the route, and you will discover them after a short walk through the dunes.
The most typical village
It looks tiny… yet it's the largest village on the island. Filoti, with just under 2000 inhabitants, sprawls its whitewashed houses across the mountainside. Steep slopes, abrupt staircases: your calves will be put to the test, but the charm of the place, dominated by the parish church and the Barozzi Tower, makes the effort well worth it. Between the main square, flower-filled courtyards and lively alleyways, family-run tavernas alternate with souvenir shops. The two neighboring villages, Chalkio and Apiranthos, are also worth a visit.
The must-do hike
It takes several hours to walk along a path used since antiquity to reach the highest point of the island – and even of the Cyclades – at just over 1000 meters altitude: Mount Zeus (Again (in the local dialect). Right where the king of the gods was born and where Theseus abandoned Ariadne… Between trekking and mythology, the route, punctuated by a break in a cave, ends at the summit with endless views of the Mediterranean and the neighboring islands.
The spot for sunset
The Portara is undoubtedly the symbol of Naxos. Last vestige of the temple of Apollo whose construction in the VIe Though never completed in the 19th century, this imposing marble structure, perched on a peninsula, overlooks the Aegean Sea, offering magnificent panoramic views of the city and the port. As night falls, the rays of the setting sun are framed in the doorway like a masterpiece painting.
The address where to sit down for a meal
High on the island, between Filoti and Apiranthos, near a small church, lies the perfect spot for a morning coffee, a midday smoothie, or even better, for a cocktail followed by moussaka or grilled food in the evening. Like a belvedere, Rotonda offers a panoramic view of the entire island and the sea beyond. A chic taverna, especially popular at sunset.
