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Nas Beach: Where History Meets Aegean Beauty

Discover Nas Beach in Ikaria: a unique blend of ancient history, stunning sunsets, and natural beauty where the river meets the Aegean Sea.

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Nas Beach, near Armenistis on Ikaria's northern coast, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and ancient history. It sits where the Chalaris River meets the Aegean Sea, near the ruins of a temple dedicated to Artemis, offering a unique and idyllic setting.

A brief summary to Nas Beach

  • GR

Local tips

  • Be cautious when swimming due to strong currents, especially during windy conditions.
  • Stay for the sunset; Nas Beach is known for having one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Aegean.
  • Explore the Chalaris River gorge for a rewarding hiking experience with waterfalls and natural pools.
  • Bring your own supplies, as the beach is unorganized and lacks facilities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Armenistis, follow the paved road west for approximately 3.5 km. The walk takes about an hour along the coastal road. Alternatively, take the high path over the gardens of Kato Raches, a small hiking trail to the left of the coastal road. From the main road, descend the steep trail for about 10 minutes to reach the beach. Be sure to wear proper shoes, as the ground is rocky and uneven.

  • Public Transport

    Check locally in Armenistis for the current bus schedule, as they are not available in advance and vary seasonally. The bus will drop you off on the main road near Nas. From there, descend the steep trail for about 10 minutes to reach the beach. Be sure to wear proper shoes, as the ground is rocky and uneven. Bus fare is approximately €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    From Armenistis, a taxi ride to Nas Beach is a short 5-minute trip. Taxis are readily available in Armenistis, but it is recommended to arrange your trip in advance, especially in the summer. Expect to pay around €8-€10 for the ride. The taxi will drop you off on the main road near Nas. From there, descend the steep trail for about 10 minutes to reach the beach. Be sure to wear proper shoes, as the ground is rocky and uneven.

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Discover more about Nas Beach

Nas Beach, located approximately 6 km west of Armenistis on the island of Ikaria, Greece, is a place where the raw beauty of nature intertwines with echoes of ancient history. This unique beach is situated at the point where the Chalaris River flows into the Aegean Sea, creating a stunning landscape that has attracted visitors for centuries. In ancient times, Nas was one of Ikaria's earliest settlements and a significant religious site. During the 6th century BC, the Ikarians built a temple dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, the Moon, and patroness of sailors. Today, only the foundation of the temple and some retaining walls of the ancient harbor remain, offering a glimpse into the area's rich past. The marble from the temple was used to build Christian churches in the 19th century. The beach itself is a mix of coarse sand and pebbles, with clear blue waters that deepen quickly. The Chalaris River forms a small pool before meeting the sea, adding to the area's unique charm. Hiking up the riverbed leads to a small waterfall and pool, perfect for exploration. However, swimmers should be cautious of strong currents, especially when north winds are blowing. Above the beach, on the cliff, several tavernas offer local cuisine and rooms for rent, providing breathtaking views of the canyon, sea, and the famed Nas sunset. Many claim it's the most beautiful sunset in the Aegean. Nas is also known as a nudist-friendly beach, welcoming those who prefer a natural and relaxed environment.

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