A Solo Journey Through Naxos: Exploring Greece's Hidden Gem

A Fond Farewell

As my Naxian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past ten days. Today, I set out to soak in the last bits of this island's magic, eager to etch every moment into my memory. It's amazing how quickly a place can feel like home, and Naxos has certainly captured a piece of my heart.

My final day began with a delightful breakfast at Melimilon Naxos. The quaint bistro, tucked away behind the Town Hall, was just the charming spot I needed to start my day. The air was filled with the sweet aroma of homemade marmalades and freshly baked pastries. I opted for a traditional Greek coffee and a crispy pancake drizzled with local honey. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life and the warm hospitality I've encountered throughout my journey. I am definitely going to try recreate the marmalade when I get back to Heidelberg; Hans and Sofia will love it.


Experience authentic Greek breakfast delights at Melimilon Naxos, where flavor meets tradition in a cozy bistro setting.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off to explore the watermill Eggares. Located in the lush, verdant valley of Eggares village, the watermill offered a glimpse into Naxos's rich agricultural history. The village itself was charming, with its stone-built main square and the grand Church of Kimissis Theotokou. As I wandered through the village, I imagined the lives of the locals, who have been farming this land for generations. The watermill, a pre-industrial era structure that was in operation until the 1960s, stood as a testament to their ingenuity and hard work. I learned that the oldest document concerning a watermill in Eggares dates back to the mid-16th century. It was fascinating to think about how this simple machine had played such a vital role in the community's survival for centuries.


Experience the charm of Eggares Watermill in Naxos, where tradition meets beauty in a serene setting.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

After immersing myself in the history of Eggares, I decided to indulge my artistic side with a visit to the Fish & Olive Gallery. Located in the beautiful village of Halki, the gallery showcases the exquisite ceramics and jewelry of Katharina Bolesch and Alexander Reichardt. As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the elegance and creativity of the artwork. The pieces were inspired by the Cyclades and the Mediterranean world, blending ancient themes with a modern style. I was particularly drawn to Katharina's delicate ceramic sculptures of marine life and Alexander's intricate jewelry designs. I learned that their work has been celebrated worldwide, with exhibitions in Tokyo, Helsinki, and even the United Nations in New York. It was inspiring to see how these artists have transformed their love for Naxos into such beautiful and meaningful creations. The gallery is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the artists' presence on the island with an exhibition called “Cycladic Whispers”.


Discover the artistic treasures of Chalkio at Fish & Olive Gallery, where local artisans showcase unique jewelry, pottery, and sculptures inspired by nature.

For lunch, I chose Irini's Restaurant, a classic Greek taverna located along the waterfront of Naxos Town. The aroma of basil filled the air, thanks to the dozens of big pots surrounding the place. I decided to try some of their specialty dishes, including the meatballs, patzarosalata (beetroot salad), and gigantes (beans). The food was simple, yet incredibly flavorful, and the portions were generous. As I savored each bite, I watched the boats bobbing in the harbor and listened to the sounds of the town. It was the perfect way to soak in the last moments of my Naxian adventure. Irini's is known for its authentic recipes and Mediterranean-diet oriented menu, with many vegetarian and vegan options. The wine list is limited, but the house wine exceeded all expectations. I felt like I was sitting in the sitting room of an island house.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Irini's Restaurant in Hora, Naxos - where tradition meets taste.

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to 1926 Γεύσεις Νάξου - Naxos Restaurant for a farewell dinner. This restaurant is known for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients and its authentic Greek flavors. The peaceful atmosphere added to the experience. I started with the saganaki, fried cheese served with a tangy tomato jam and lemon drizzle. For my main course, I indulged in the traditional lamb dish Keflati, slow-cooked lamb immersed in savory tomato sauce. Each bite was a burst of flavor, showcasing the best of Naxian cuisine. I learned that the restaurant was created by the Agricultural Cooperatives Union of Naxos to offer gastronomic creations exclusively from local products. The name comes from the year the union was founded. The chef is Naxiotis Vangelis Venieris.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine with stunning sea views at 1926 Γεύσεις Νάξου in Naxos Town - a culinary journey you won't forget.

Before heading back to my hotel, I decided to make one last stop at Kitron, a bar famous for its cocktails based on the traditional Naxian drink, Kitron. The bar was lively, filled with both tourists and locals enjoying the evening air. I ordered a Kitron cocktail and savored the unique citrus flavor as I reflected on my time in Naxos. The Kitron liqueur is made from the leaves of the citron tree, which grows in Naxos. The bar itself operates from morning, offering breakfast and brunch. As I sipped my drink, I admired the photos and awards displayed around the shop, showcasing the history and tradition of this famous Naxian liqueur. The Kitron 1896 Cocktail Bar is chic and elegant, with traditional roots and an UpToDate inspiration.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kitron, a cocktail bar and brunch restaurant in Naxos, serving unique drinks and delicious meals in a cozy setting.

My time in Naxos has been nothing short of magical. From the ancient ruins to the stunning beaches, from the delicious food to the warm hospitality, this island has captured my heart in ways I never expected. As I prepare to leave tomorrow, I know that I will carry these memories with me always. Naxos, thank you for the adventure of a lifetime. I raise my glass to you, with the hope that I will return someday soon. I am also grateful for this solo trip to Naxos, as it has given me time to reflect on my life back in Heidelberg with Hans and Sofia. It has also given me inspiration for my blog, and I cannot wait to share my experiences with my readers.

As I pack my bags, I realize I forgot to buy a power adapter and a reusable water bottle before leaving Germany []. I will make sure to add these to my list for my next trip. Until then, farewell Naxos, and thank you for everything.