White has always been the trademark of Paros, the third largest island of the Cyclades. The famous marble extracted from the mines of Paros has been famous since the ancient times and in fact many of the famed ancient Greek statues were crafted using Parian marble: Hermes of Praxiteles (Olympia Archaeological Museum), Venus de Milo and Nike of Samothrace (Louvre). Nowadays Paros combines all the elements that make up the Cycladic islands: It is cosmopolitan, indie, welcoming, traditional, up-tempo and bohemian. It is also the home of amazing beaches; in short, Paros is the paradigm of the Greek island experience.
Staying in Paros
Upon arrival visitors face a most pleasant dilemma: Parikia or Naoussa? Parikia is the main harbor, the capital of the island and the center of most activities. The white windmill of the port is your starting point in a walk through the maze of narrow, whitewashed streets, lined by picturesque white houses and little yards filled with geraniums and oleanders. The commercial part of the town is filled to the brim with stylish shops and cafes.
Naoussa, the second largest town of the island, is equally full of life but a tad bit more picturesque. The fishing port with the stone bridge and the remains of the old castle are great for leisure walks and ideal spots to snap a picture. Naoussa has that little bohemian something, which paired with its boutiques and fancy bars, makes it attractive to many celebrities as well.
Eating is also a big thing in Paros. Its competitive gastronomic advantage is not only based on the succulent local recipes but the freshness of the local produce as well. Souma, a traditional local drink akin to raki, is a must. For those who are not so keen on hard liquor, local wine is a great treat; especially the Aegean varieties of Mandilaria (red wine) and Monemvasia (white wine). Don't forget to taste the local cheese called "xinomizithra".
SIghtseeing & Attractions
While in Parikia visit the Archaeological Museum (+30 22840 21231, 08:30-15:00) whose collection unfolds a six thousand years history. One of the gems of the collection is the Parian Chronicle, an ancient stone inscription recounting events from 1581 B.C. till 264 B.C. Right next to the museum are the ruins of three buildings of the Hellenistic period, with extraordinary mosaics of the 3rd c. BC. In the heart of the town is the venetian fortification, built by the Venetian Duke of Naxos, Marco Sanudo, over ancient temples.
The most emblematic attraction in Parikia, and in Paros in general, is the famous monastery of Panagia Ekatontapyliani (+30 22840 21243, 07:30-22:00), one of the most famous pilgrimages in Greece. The name of the monastery means "A Hundred Gates", and tradition has it that there are 100 gates in there, 99 of which are visible and one hidden and closed. The Byzantine Museum is situated in the monastery (+30 22840 21243, 09:00-21:00), that houses valuable relics of the main temple.
Lefkes is the most mountainous village in Paros, located in the middle of the island. Well known for its tavernas and the church of Holy Trinity with marble steeples. Every summer, a week after the Assumption, Lefkes celebrate the feast of karavolas that attracts people from across the island; people feast on snails, garlic and potato stew and dance ballos (a local dance of the Aegean) until the early hours of the morning.
About 12 km from Lefkes is the village of Marpissa and the 16th c. BC monastery of Agios Antonios (Saint Anthony), with an exquisite wooden temple and a great view to the sea.
One of Naoussa's monuments is the Venetian fort, built by the Sommaripa Dynasty (15th c.) and a visit to the Historical and Folklore Museum (+30 22840 52284) is also worth the while for those interested in the tradition of the island.
The Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros (+30 22840 53573, parospark.com) is situated on the peninsula of Detis, on a 800 acres area that during summer hosts cultural events.
Sea Treasures
With a 120 km coastline, Paros caters to every visitor's wishes. Starting from the north and the bay of Naoussa, you will find the beach of Kolimbithres with rare relief rocks that people use as sunbeds. The bustling, sheltered beach Monastiri is only a few minutes from there, inside the Environmental and Cultural Park.
The "twin" beaches of Mikri Santa Maria and Megali Santa Maria are in fact one long beach, ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling. Nudists prefer the beach of Laggeri, about 1.5 km from Naoussa, while the sandy shore of Ampelas offers quality family moments, with some decent tavernas serving local cuisine dishes.
Tsoukalia and Molos are considered ideal when there is no wind, the quiet and sandy Piso Livadi is equipped with tavernas, cafes, bars and accommodation choices, while Logaras is the favorite beach of the locals.
The shore of Chrisi Akti (Golden Shore) is a windsurfer's paradise. In the southernmost part of the island beaches are quieter and windless. Alyki is a top choice for families, Pounta a must for kite surf and watersports, while Marcelo, very close to Parikia (you can also reach it by boat), looks like it's coming straight out of an ad for Caribbean holidays.
Trips
The ferryboat from Pounta gets you to Antiparos, the small island opposite Paros, in just 7 minutes. Check also the connections to Despotiko and Koufonisia.
Getting There: Ferries and catamaran services connect Paros with the ports of Piraeus and Rafina, and daily flights connect the island to the mainland.
LIFO CHOICE
1. Palm Beach
Beach · Paroikia, Kikladhes, Greece, Tel. +30 2284 093060
www.palmbeachparos.com
www.facebook.com/palmbeachparos1
An idyllic place in one of the most beautiful bays of Paros, the bay of Agia Eirini, where you can sunbathe or relax on its sunbeds and its lounges. Discover the finger-food menu or enjoy a meal at the restaurant, trying both traditional and sophisticated plates prepared by its talented chef team. The menu is a perfect combination of French gourmet with a twist always in search of high quality local products. End your day with a refreshing cocktail admiring the splendid sunset.
2. Stylishious
Naousa, Paros, Tel: +30 2284055422
STYLISHIOUS is a new shop in the picturesque village Naousa, Paros. It represents exclusively the collection "alexSANDra on the beach" by Alexandra Katsaiti. Her clothes are for all women who feel like a "forever girl" having an overflowing joy for life! Alexandra is a designer with lots of personality and a unique style that meets girly & sexy with a twist. The 2016 summer collection has the essence of Greece that takes us from the islands to Elegant Resort Styles, Sexy Beachwear & Casual City Looks. Her signature accessories, the sun glass collection "alexSUNNIES" & her Greek style sandals "alexSANDALS", point towards the Greek Islands! The entire collection feels like a summer breeze in the Cyclades, blowing with a retro feeling, bringing back memories of amazing childhood holidays, waking up the little girl still living inside us, urging us to enjoy the summer and enjoy life!
3. Yria Hotel Resort
Tel. +30 22840 24154
www.yriahotel.gr
Hidden in the heart of the bay of Parasporos, Yria Hotel is one of the top holiday choices on this beautiful island of Cyclades. Υria Hotel is designed to reflect the cycladic architecture of the past, built using local materials and artifacts meticulously chosen for a stylish effect. It guarantees an ultimate Aegean experience, and boredom is out of the quesrtion. Spend some time in the library, exercise in the gym, have a refreshing spa or enjoy a tasty meal by the pool at Nefeli, and have a signature cocktail at Selini bar watching the magnificent sunset.
4. Koo Sushi Restaurant
Naousa, Paros,
Tel. +30 22840 53454
www.koo-sushi.com
www.facebook.com/koosushiparos/?fref=ts
Koo Sushi just landed in Paros and it is one of the best choices for Sushi fans. Created by the team of the well known Barbarossa restaurant Koo Sushi is a certain hit for all those visiting Paros this summer. This is the only sushi exclusive restaurant in Paros managed by three sushi chefs straight from London's Shaka No Hana by Hakasan and the Athenian Freud Oriental.
5. Barbarossa
Νaoussa, Old Port.
Tel. +30 22840 51391 /
6946 335840
www. paros.barbarossagr.com
www.facebook.com/BarbarossaParos
Definitely one of the most famous places on the island. In bussiness more than five decades, this restaurant keeps serving delicious food. You will dine among the it crowd that often visits Barbarossa, while enjoying the view of the Castle. Perfect spot for fish and other delicacies, all created by Chef Joseph Sykianakis. Barbarossa's bar is open till late for excellent cocktails and good vibes.
6. Cuore Rosso
Parikia, +30 22840 22920, +30 6983078276,
facebook: cuorerossoparos
An authentic Italian pizzeria with a wood oven offering more than 40 handmade pizzas using special flours that make for a truly unique dough. Cuore Rosso offers a wide range of salami and cheese which are part of the regional tradition of Emilia Romagna and Tuscany, accompanied by the classic fried Gnocco. The menu includes salads, mozzarella from Campania, grilled cheese and homemade desserts, including an unforgettable tiramisù.The cellar offers a wide selection of Italian and Greek wines as well as craft beers strictly unfiltered and unpasteurized. Cuore Rosso has two dining rooms in a traditional Greek style and a cosy garden.
7. Ragoussis
Naoussa sqr (bridge) +30 22840 051508,
Mando Mavrogenous sqr Parikia +30 22840 21573,
6th km Parikia-Naousa +30 2284028326
Antonis Ragkousis is the fourth generation cook of his family, following in the footsteps of his forfathers. He built a beautiful new place in Naoussa with pastries, sandwiches with fresh local ingredients, handmade ice cream, coffee and breads. In his open kitchen Antonis cooks with love. "Nothing is ready made. The ice cream is prepared with fresh local milk. The mizithropitakia with local cheese bought from local producers. The traditional zacharompaklavas on the shelves of the shop is a recipe of my great grandmother with a twist! This is a sweet made with honey and almonds. I use local honey enriched with dried fruit" Ragoussis is open 24/7 and on his menu there is something for everyone. If you visit Ragoussis after hours don't forget to try "vromiko" sandwich with bacon and fried potatoes.
8. Yemeni
Naoussa, +30 22840 51445,
www.yemeni.gr
The tavern Yemeni in Naoussa remains faithful to the culinary tradition of Paros, since 2007. Nikos Evagelopoulos, along with his mother the excellent cook Mario Zuma, focused his cuisine on traditional recipes made with fresh local ingredients. Mario prepares with love and care the hand-picked produce straight from her orchard. Visit Yemeni to taste fresh bread kneaded and baked by the staff, unforgettable stuffed gialantzi dolmades (stuffed vine leaves) as well as the traditional revithada, chickpea casserole braised in the oven. Don't leave Yemeni if you don't try the gemista: fragrant tomatoes and peppers stuffed with rice and herbs. The traditional moussaka with eggplant, potatoes, ground beef and homemade bechamel is divine.
9. Marmitta Naoussa
Naoussa River, Paros, Tel. +30 22840 51721
www.facebook.com/marmitta.naoussa
A beautiful garden in Naoussa houses this excellent restaurant. All the dishes served in Marmitta are made with local ingredients according to local or Mediterranean recipes. Service is extremely polite and prices are realy reasonable. Open from noon.
10. Kapari
Greek Restaurant · Naoussa, Paros, Tel. +30 698 619 5204
www.facebook.com/kapari.paros
Once you cross the doorstep it feels like being in your mom's kitchen. And the food tastes like homemade. A family tavern serving greek cuisine and all the delicacies of Paros, with the best ingredients and local products of Cyclades. The current owners continue the tradition they inherited from their grandparents Kapari's menu is still as tasty, fresh and original as it was in the old days!
