Dimitris Gavras

Celebrating Love

Celebrating Love: Unique Valentine's Day Ideas for Every Couple

Valentine’s Day, a day dedicated to love and affection, offers a perfect opportunity to show your significant other just how much they mean to you. Whether you’re in a new relationship, have been together for years, or are enjoying the journey of self-love, February 14th is a day to celebrate love in all its forms. As a blogger passionate about creating memorable experiences, I’ve curated a list of unique Valentine’s Day recommendations to make this year’s celebration unforgettable.

Embark on a Culinary Adventure at Home

Transform your kitchen into a culinary studio and embark on a cooking adventure together. Choose a cuisine that you both love or have always wanted to try, and spend the evening cooking a special meal together. Whether it’s Italian, Japanese, or a fusion of your favorite flavors, the act of cooking together can be incredibly bonding. Set the table, light some candles, and enjoy a romantic dinner you’ve made with love.

Celebrating

Plan a Themed Movie Night

Celebrating Love with food

Create a cozy movie theater experience at home with a themed movie night. Select films that align with both of your interests—be it romantic classics, thrilling adventures, or laugh-out-loud comedies. Don’t forget the popcorn and your favorite snacks! Make it extra special by building a fort with blankets and pillows for a nostalgic touch that adds to the charm of the evening.

Take a Virtual Class Together

Learning something new together can be both fun and enriching. With countless online classes available, choose one that sparks your interest—be it a dance class, a cocktail making session, or a pottery workshop. Not only will this provide you with a new skill or hobby, but it’s also a great way to spend quality time together, creating memories that you’ll cherish long after Valentine’s Day.

Online class

Explore the Great Outdoors

Exploration

For couples who love nature, plan a day out exploring the beauty of the great outdoors. A hike through local trails, a picnic in a scenic park, or a leisurely bike ride can be wonderfully romantic. Fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and the tranquility of nature provide a perfect backdrop for deepening your connection and enjoying each other’s company.

Craft a Personalized Gift

In a world of store-bought gifts, something handmade carries a special significance. Spend some time crafting a personalized gift for your partner. It could be a scrapbook of your favorite memories together, a playlist of songs that tell your story, or a hand-painted piece of art. The effort and thought put into a DIY gift often hold more value than the most expensive present.

Celebrating love with gift

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love in all its forms. Whether you’re spending it with a partner, friends, family, or honoring your own company, it’s the perfect occasion to make those in your life feel special and loved. Remember, it’s not about grand gestures or expensive gifts, but the thoughtfulness and love that accompany whatever you choose to do. Here’s to a Valentine’s Day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

Naxos jewel in cyclades

A Guide to Cultural Tours and Sightseeing

Naxos, a jewel in the Cyclades archipelago, is a Greek island renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. For those looking to delve into the heart of Naxos, several local businesses offer unique experiences that combine the island’s natural beauty with its cultural heritage. Here’s a closer look at four of these enterprises.

Naxos Cultural Tours

A guide to cultural tours

Naxos Cultural Tours, provides an immersive experience into the island’s history and traditions. Located in the heart of Naxos, this company specializes in guided tours that showcase the island’s archaeological sites, historical landmarks, and local art scenes. Their knowledgeable guides, fluent in multiple languages, bring to life the stories and legends of ancient temples, Byzantine churches, and Venetian castles. These tours are perfect for history buffs and anyone interested in getting a deeper understanding of Naxos’ rich cultural tapestry.

Naxos Trekking

For the adventure seekers, Naxos Trekking offers a unique way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes. Situated ideally for easy access to various trails, this company organizes guided trekking excursions that cater to all skill levels. From leisurely walks through olive groves and vineyards to more challenging hikes up the island’s rugged mountains, Naxos Trekking provides a blend of natural beauty and physical activity. These treks not only offer breathtaking views but also a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna from expert guides.

a guide to sightseeing

Philema

cultural tours and sightseeing

Philema stands out for those who wish to experience the culinary delights of Naxos. This charming establishment is dedicated to showcasing the best of Naxian cuisine through cooking classes and food tours. Located in a picturesque setting, Philema invites guests to learn about traditional cooking techniques, local ingredients, and the secrets behind famous Greek dishes. Their hands-on cooking classes are a delightful way to immerse yourself in Greek culture and come away with recipes you can recreate at home.

Smirili

Lastly, Smirili offers a unique cultural experience that blends sightseeing with the art of traditional Greek weaving. Nestled in a scenic location, this establishment not only displays beautifully crafted textiles but also provides workshops where visitors can learn the art of weaving from skilled artisans. The experience at Smirili is both educational and therapeutic, offering a rare glimpse into a vanishing art form. It’s an ideal stop for those interested in arts, crafts, and taking home a unique and personal souvenir from Naxos.

a guide to weave

Each of these businesses provides a unique window into the heart and soul of Naxos. Whether you’re trekking through its stunning landscapes, diving into its rich history, savoring its culinary delights, or learning a traditional craft, Naxos promises an unforgettable cultural journey.

Naxos sunset behind trees and lakes

Exploring Naxos in a Day

A Guide for Families and Adults

Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its rich historical background, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture, it’s an ideal destination for both families and adults looking to make the most of their day in this beautiful Greek island. Here’s how you can soak in the essence of Naxos, whether you’re traveling with kids or just adults.

Morning: Historical Beginnings and Scenic Views

 

For Families:


• Start at the Portara: Begin your day with a visit to the Portara, the iconic ancient marble gateway standing on the islet of Palatia. It’s a fantastic spot for family pictures with the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. The history behind this unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo will spark the curiosity of both kids and adults.

• Explore the Old Market: After soaking in the views at the Portara, head into the Old Market in Chora. It’s a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, where kids can look for souvenirs and parents can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee.

Apollos temple in naxos, front view with boat in the background

For Adults:


• Hiking to Mount Zeus: For those seeking adventure, start your day early with a hike to Mount Zeus. This trek offers breathtaking views and leads you to the highest point in the Cyclades. The summit is the perfect spot for capturing panoramic photos of the island.

Afternoon: Cultural Immersion

For Families:

• Naxos Castle: Spend your afternoon exploring the Naxos Castle (Kastro). This Venetian castle houses museums that are both educational and entertaining for children. Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum of Naxos located here.

• Puppet Show at the Castle: Check if there’s a puppet show happening in the castle grounds, a delightful experience for kids.

For Adults:

• Winery Tour: Visit a local winery in the afternoon. Naxos is known for its superb wines. A tour will not only offer insights into winemaking but also provide an opportunity to taste some unique local varieties.

Evening: Sunset and Traditional Greek Night

For Both Families and Adults:

• Sunset at the Temple of Demeter: Around sunset, make your way to the Temple of Demeter. This 6th-century temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the sun setting over the hills.

• Greek Night in Chora: End your day with a traditional Greek night in Chora. Whether you’re with family or adults-only, the experience of Greek music, dance, and cuisine under the stars is not to be missed.

Remember, Naxos is an island that caters to all tastes, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a family seeking fun and

educational experiences or adults looking for adventure and relaxation, Naxos in a day can be a memory to cherish for a lifetime.

Naxos view from a hole in the wall

Naxos Family Holiday at Their Best

The Quintessential Guide

Unveiling the Jewel of Naxos

Naxos is a destination that exudes a magical blend of ancient history and natural beauty. It’s a place where families can create unforgettable memories. It all begins with choosing the right place to stay. I’m thrilled to share why Natura Villas is the ultimate choice for families seeking the quintessential Naxos holiday.

Naxos view from a hole in the wall

A Haven of Comfort and Serenity

Firstly, Natura Villas offers unparalleled comfort and serenity, vital for any family vacation. The villas are designed with a deep understanding of family needs. Spacious living areas ensure everyone has their own space, while communal areas are perfect for family bonding. The blend of modern amenities and traditional Greek aesthetics provides a tranquil and luxurious atmosphere. After a day of exploring, families can relax in a villa that feels like a home away from home.

Tailored Experiences for All Ages

Secondly, the beauty of Natura Villas lies in its ability to cater to all ages. The villas offer various activities, from serene gardens for parents to unwind to playgrounds where children can frolic safely. Additionally, the staff at Natura Villas are experts in crafting experiences that delight every family member, ensuring a balanced holiday where everyone finds something to cherish.

Family Adventures in Naxos

Beyond the comfort of Natura Villas, Naxos itself is a playground for families. Here are some activities that families can enjoy together:

Exploring Ancient Ruins
Naxos, steeped in history, beckons families to explore ancient ruins like the Temple of Apollo, creating a thrilling educational experience.
Beach Day Fun
No family holiday in Naxos is complete without a day at the beach. Agios Prokopios and Plaka Beach are family-friendly options with shallow waters and soft sands, perfect for building sandcastles or splashing around.
Hiking the Scenic Trails
For adventurous families, hiking the scenic trails of Naxos is a must. Trails like the ones in Aliko offer breathtaking views and a chance to discover the island's diverse flora and fauna.
Local Cuisine and Workshops
Indulge in the local cuisine by visiting family-friendly tavernas that offer traditional Greek dishes. Also, keep an eye out for cooking workshops where you can learn to make Greek delicacies together.
Sailing Excursions
Explore the surrounding azure waters through a family-friendly sailing excursion. These trips often include stops at secluded beaches and opportunities for snorkeling.
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Wrapping Up the Naxos Experience

Naxos, with its blend of history, natural beauty, and family-oriented activities, is a perfect destination for a family holiday. And at the heart of this experience is Natura Villas, where comfort, luxury, and tailored experiences come together to create an unforgettable stay. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, enjoying beach days, or relishing in local cuisine, Naxos has something for every family member.

Natura Villas is more than just a place to stay; it’s the starting point of a journey filled with discovery, relaxation, and family bonding. So, when planning your next family adventure, remember that Natura Villas in Naxos isn’t just a choice; it’s the gateway to creating lasting family memories.

traditional easter food, tsoureki

Greek Orthodox Easter is probably the biggest celebration of the year for most Greeks, with a lot of special traditions and family gatherings.  So, how do Greeks celebrate Easter?

If you can not be in Naxos during Easter, but you are curious, then read below what Greek Easter is about

40 days before Easter – fasting period

The preparations for the Greek Easter actually start from “Kathara Devtera” (Clean Monday) onward. All Greeks celebrate the national holiday “Kathara Devtera”, which is the last day of carnival and the first day of the so-called “fasting period”.
Take a look at the video, to get an idea what are the typical foods for celebrating Kathara Devtera

From that day onward till Easter people might greet you with “kali sarrakosti” (We wish you a nice 40 days!), since there are 40 days till the “holy week” (the week before Easter Sunday).

The “Holy Week”

The week before Easter Sunday, the Holy Week, begins on Palm Sunday.
Greek Easter is a very special and holy time indeed! Even for non-religious Greeks or foreigners, the atmosphere is nice and it is a part of the Greek culture and traditions.

There are church services everyday commemorating the last week in the life of Jesus Christ. The evening services are the most attended, except for Wednesday when the Service of the Holy Unction is held in the afternoon. On Thursday morning the service commemorates the Last Supper and the Betrayal of Christ.
This is the day that the hard-boiled eggs are dyed red, signifying the blood of Christ, and the Easter bread, called tsoureki, is baked.
The evening service on Thursday is a long one and features twelve gospel readings.

Meanwhile, people are shopping for their Easter gifts and buying their lambs of all sizes for Easter Sunday. Athenians who have family-connections to the islands and villages on the mainland are preparing to leave the city, as well as people with no family ties!

Good Friday

On Good Friday, the figure of Christ is taken down from the cross. The epitaphios , decorated with flowers by the girls through the night, is brought into the church. The bells of the church can be heard all over and all the flags in Greece are lowered to half-mast. In the evening a “funeral service” is held and at about 9pm the epitaphios is taken from the church and carried through the streets in a procession. Now everybody follows the epithaphios while carrying “beige” candles.

On Good Friday the candlelit funeral procession takes place in three churches (Mitropoli, Bantanesa, Agios Nikodimos) around 20.00-21.00 h.

The procession takes place all over the town, while (some) people also sing and afterwards the different “epitaphia” from various churches, are coming together on the main square

During the whole week till Saturday evening you can greet each other with the usual “Xronia Polla”, but also with “Kalo Pasxa” (Happy Easter) or otherwise “Kali Anastasi”. Just be careful when you want to translate the latter into English. (a nice Greek man wanted to translate it for some students in English and said: “Have a nice erection!” ( instead of “resurrection”!).

Easter Saturday

On Saturday the Orthodox Patriarch breaks the seal of the door of the tomb of Christ in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem and emerges with the Holy Fire, which is then flown by Aegean or Olympic Airways, accompanied by high-ranking priests and government officials to Athens airport where it is met by an honor guard to the small church of Agia Anargyroi in Plaka (center Athens). From there the light is distributed to churches all over Attika and the rest of Greece.

At 11pm on Saturday night pretty much the entire Naxos is in church. The lights are turned off at midnight and the priest announces that Christ has arisen from the dead as candles (this day only white candles!) are lit. The tiny glow at the front of the church grows and soon the whole room is illuminated by the light of everyone’s candles. Exactly at midnight the priest sings the Paschal hymn:

“Christ has risen from the dead and in so doing has trampled on death and to those in the tombs he has given life”.
The church bells ring in celebration, fireworks go off, ships sound their sirens and the light and sound makes any European New Year celebration seem tame in comparison! People greet each other happily with the words Christos Anesti (Christ has risen) which is replied to with Alithos Anesti (Truly He has arisen).

Gunshots, dynamite and fireworks will be going on for the next 3 hours or more, with every year blowing off a finger or two! Just be careful!

Easter Sunday

Easter day, Sunday,  is most people’s favorite day of the year. A lamb is roasted (or baked in the oven) and friends and families get together to eat, drink, talk and dance. And this is what we plan to do as well in Natura Villas, with family and friends.

So Greek Easter Sunday means eating Greek lamb, goat, kokoretsi, wine, tsoureki bread and cracking red eggs.

palm trees in front of Naxos island beach

”If paradise was on Earth, it would be here,” wrote Nikos Kazantzakis, Greece’s foremost 20th century writer, about the short spell he spent as a teenager in Naxos’s fertile valley of Eggares.

The nature of Naxos talks to the heart of every artist with its authenticity, richness and simplicity. The island is marked by great variety:

  • Mountains with ravines, caves and gullies shade verdant valleys with olive, fig, orange, lemon trees and vineyards, abundant waters.
  • The valleys end at smooth, sandy beaches adorned with juniper and tamarisk trees; villages are surrounded by fields and vegetable gardens; migratory birds find refuge on trees, while wild pigeons and swifts in the inaccessible coastal rocks.
  • Protected biotopes with rare fauna and flora complete the mosaic of an island that offers the visitor all the lavish gifts of nature.
  • But the seabed around Naxos also offers another, exciting world, with marine ecosystems of astounding beauty, huge variety, reefs and rocks full of life, meadows of Posidonia oceanica with colorful plates and reefs.

Just pick your route, either on or off shore, and abandon yourself to the magic of Naxos’s nature. The thrill is there throughout the year.

Geomorphology

Naxos has an area of 430sq.km and a coastline of 148km. It is a mostly mountainous island, with a widely alternating landscape (mountaintops, torrents, gorges and caves, predominantly encountered in the northwestern, northeastern and southeastern sections of the island). The flat areas (basins, plateaus, valleys) are found in the central and southwestern parts. The greatest part of the island’s coastline is laced by pretty beaches, while almost the entire western coast is an endless string of long, sandy beaches. Naxos’s geological structure mainly consists of stone transformed into marble, emery, slate e.t.c.. The western section is dominated by granite, to which the beaches owe their formation. The significant alternations in geomorphology and the climatic conditions of the hinterland make Naxos a unique island which combines the rarity of the Cycladic landscape with the beauty of mainland Greece.

Biotopes – wetlands

Starting from the sea zone and the coastline, then crossing the lowland areas and ending on the hills and uplands, a visitor comes across a spate of natural habitats unlikely to be found in on any other Cycladic island.

  • The open sea and the coastal zone
  • The steep, rocky coastline – particularly on the eastern side.
  • The sandy and pebbly beaches and the sand dunes with juniper trees in southwestern Naxos.
  • The coastal, seasonal wetlands, such as the lagoon of Alyki

Mount Zas and its cave

The summit of Mount Zas, which rises southeast of the village of Filoti, is the highest peak in the entire Cyclades region, with an elevation of 1,003m. According to mythology, god Zeus spent his childhood years here and an eagle was said to have offered him the thunderbolt at the top of this mountain which subsequently helped him reign supreme on Mountain Olympus. Besides its mythological interest, Mount Zas is endowed with wonderful natural beauty -a great place for trekking through old and very scenic routes.

Routsouna waterfall

Two important streams that start from the massifs of Koronos and Fanari run north and south of Keramoti respectively.

The two rivers converge at the western end of Keramoti, at a point named Dipotamata. Continuing its flow through rocks and rich vegetation, the stream unites with a creek running from Kanafa to create the Routsouna waterfall, a spectacular 20m drop. A plane tree is rooted at its base, while a lake of considerable depth offers a delightful swimming basin for Keramoti’s youngsters during the summer months. From here, the water continues its flow all the way to the fields at Eggares and irrigates the area before reaching the sea, at Ammitis beach.

The area’s water, which maintains its flow even during the summer months, creates an enchanting verdant locale that differs greatly from standard Cycladic settings. A uniquely beautiful path, starting near the old bridge of Keramoti, leads to the waterfall.

Naxos marble

Naxos’s white marble has been one of the island’s most important natural resources since antiquity. It is mostly found on the western section of the island and its quality rivaled the marbles of any other origin.

Quarries are seen in various locations – the most important being the one near the village of Kynidaros, which has an imposing presence and makes for a lunar landscape that extends from the mountain side to the main road. Marble in antiquity was the exclusive material used in sculpture and its significance is shown by the island’s ancient quarries (Flerio, Melanes, Apollonas). Splendid examples of the use of marble were the ancient sanctuaries of the Temple of Apollo, of Gyroulas at Sagri and of Dionysus at Yria. The fact that the first marble statue of a large size was sculpted on Naxos in 660 BC (Kouros) signifies the importance of the art of marble sculpture on the island, which is retained to this day. Examples of this art can be admired on various buildings dispersed throughout the island, both ancient and modern.

Emery

Emery, a very hard type of rock with important industrial uses as an abrasive and burnishing agent, is found in abundance on the slopes of Mt. Amomaxis of Naxos, between the villages of Koronos and Apiranthos.

It is dark gray or black in color and the superior quality of Naxos emery (smirigli in the local dialect) has been known since antiquity. Virtually the sum of emery deposits that can be mined in Greece are found on the island. The mining of emery was a hazardous occupation but also a significant factor in the survival of the inhabitants of the villages in the Naxos uplands.

Naxos town view from above

The biggest Cycladic island has something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, a food addict or you’re a culture enthusiast, Naxos has you covered. You know you’ve arrived when you see the popular and iconic Portara, the remains of an ancient temple, which lies on Palatia island overlooking the sea. It’s a beautiful place and becomes even more magical during sunset.

The beaches

Naxos has amazing beaches with crystal clear waters! Plaka and Mikri Vigla should be on your list; golden sand and good vibes. Agios Prokopios is also worth a visit, but be prepared for a possible smell, coming from the salt evaporation ponds.

If you prefer something ‘wilder’ and a more imposing scenery, then head to Hawaii beach. Access can be a bit tough but the scenery is breathtaking!

There are also numerous beaches near Apiranthos, which you can explore. One of them is Psilli Ammos.

You now know a few things about us and you can ask for more, for sure, so you could freely decide whether you want to stay with us and be friends or not, without any offense of course

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Gastronomic adventures

Naxos is a blood relative to good food. It’s known for its popular potatoes and delicious cheese. One of the best places to eat at is ‘Axiotissa’ but you have to make reservations in advance. It’s a tavern in high demand and for a good reason; its food is mouthwatering! It has the best potatoes (chips), amazing meat options and tasty starters.

One more top restaurant that you need to visit is ‘Nissaki’. Make sure to order octopus salad and pasta.

For delicious fish bites go to ‘Meze2’ in Chora (the main town). Locals will suggest ordering the little fish called ‘gouna’. Listentothem!

Overall, Naxos offers excellent honey, citrus, and cheese. You must try the local graviera with truffle. Heaven!

The ones with the sweet tooth will find their own paradise in Waffle House; delicious ice cream and waffles.

And the night goes on in Naxos. For drinks, I strongly recommend bar 52 and Swing. Nevertheless, there are many bars around Chora, I am sure you will find the one you love.

Picturesque Villages

Chalki and Apiranthos (or Aperathos) are two more reasons why you will fall deeply in love with Naxos. Cute villages, with narrow cobblestone streets and lovely corners.

Chalki is known for its delicious ‘galaktoboureko’ and ‘keftedes’ (meatballs). Apiranthos is the jewel of Naxos. It manages to keep its authenticity, whilst its architecture and stone-built houses will open the door to the old times. Don’t miss having coffee or food at one of the cafes that overlooks the green valley.

Lastly, one morning and before you head to the beach, enjoy a coffee under the big plane tree of Damarionas village.

Archaeological interest

If you are a traveler with culture interests, then I am sure you will find the list below useful:

  1. The aforementioned Portara, which is the remains from Apollon’s Temple
  2. Dimitra’s Temple in Sangri is of importance, as it offers useful details on various temples’ architecture
  3. Kouros and Kori Melanon
  4. Kouros of Apollon
  5. Archaeological Museum of Apiranthos
  6. Venetial Museum of Naxos

Naxos can be very expensive during high season and in case you want to take your car to Chora, you will need at least 30 minutes to find a parking spot.

But this Cycladic island is so enchanting, it will really steal your heart. I have already visited three times and why not, once more?