Paros Island is part of the Cyclades complex in the Aegean Sea, standing out for its long blonde sandy beaches, the local cuisine and the strong winds, which invite surfers from all over the world. The islandcites the heart of the Cycladic Islands, with serene landscapes, fertile valleys and rolling hills dotted with small churches and monasteries.
The island was for decades a popular destination for Greek families and surfers, offering amazing natural beauty, a bohemian chic atmosphere and safety for children and teenagers. This season, the island has gained a lot of attention and is on the top of the list for most high-end guests from all over the world. The island is a turning page, appealing to a more diverse international and often demanding audience. The 5 main reasons, beyond the obvious new airport that started operations in 2016, are:
1. Increased popularity
Increased popularity results in a substantial rejuvenation of the accommodation offering which is appealing from middle to a higher end audience. Over the last two years, we noted major new constructions of luxury villas, boutique hotels and sea resorts. Almost all of them follow the Cycladic aesthetics and architecture, such as the white cubic volumes and local stones in harmony with the local landscape, while upgrading the amenities and the level of comfort, privacy and luxury.
2. Food
From fine dining to family style Greek restaurants, the island has a variety tempting to all tastes. In most restaurants you can find elevated menus with fish and seafood ingredients as the main elements, with fish delivered directly from the fishing boats in the harbor of Naoussa. For those looking for a break from seafood there is a selection of modern taverns serving the all time classic souvlaki and Gyros, while there are some new spots for vegetarians with menus following the traditional Mediterranean cuisine.
fresh cooked fish with vegetables and potatoes
3. Home to surfers and kite surfers from all over the world
The beach of Pounda has been included in the Professional Kite board Riders Association and offers one of the best schools and clubs for kite surfing in the Mediterranean. A sandy beach with no obstacles and a shallow side is the ideal set for those looking the joy of an extreme sport in safety and amazing surroundings. With services to meet the needs from beginners to professional athletes, the natural weather conditions and wind status offer at least 3 to 4 months of thrills with the sports.
4. Discover secret trekking paths
The old paths that used until the previous century to connect the villages are now well documented trekking paths that provide adventurers a magnificent tour into the untouched island’s landscape, along with monuments and site not accessible by car.A few clubs now exist with professional guides to offer nature lovers and families a walking guide of the islands and its inner beauty. Some of the most popular routes are from Lefkes village to Marpissa and from Koukounaries to Naoussa.
5. The island offers historical and cultural sites
Guests can discover the main village called Parikia, which is the island’s capital and visit the famous church of Ekatontapiliani, one of Greece’s most important Byzantine monuments impressively preserved. Other popular sites are the Venetian Castle and the Archeological Museum with its exhibits from the ancient history of Paros and Antiparos.
