PAROS

Exploring Paros

Enjoy the breathtaking clarity of the Aegean Sea, bask in the Greek sun as its turquoise waters lap against white sandy beaches, stroll around picturesque spots by the sea, admire the unique whitewashed island architecture, surf in crystal clear waters and go on some spectacular excursions during the day – but don’t forget to save some energy for the nightlife!

Where
: In the Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades island group, the island of Paros.

Why: Páros is one of the most popular holiday destinations for young people; unrivalled natural beauty, excellent tourist facilities, beaches with crystal clear waters, unrivalled Byzantine footpaths connecting traditional villages, breathtaking landscapes and pulsating nightlife make the island an unbeatable destination that guarantees a holiday to remember!

Must visit: Parikía (Parikiá), the capital of Páros, a beautiful Cycladic village with whitewashed cubic houses and impressive neoclassical mansions; Náoussa, a colourful village, where the ruins of a Venetian fortress stand at the entrance to its small harbour; Léfkes is located at the highest point of Páros and enjoys stunning views of the island. The village is set up in the mountains and is surrounded by a rich green landscape; Márpissa, a 15th century traditional village with a distinctive medieval character and the marble quarries at Maráthi, where the famous Parian marble used to be extracted.

Where to stay: depending on how much you want to spend, you can opt for a guesthouse in Hóra or in one of the traditional hamlets around the island or choose from a wide selection of major hotel complexes.

Join in with: Religious festivals are the perfect occasion for many types of festivities! If you find yourself in such an event, don’t forget to taste the sweet smelling wines produced in the island’s vineyards: Monemvassiá and Mantilariá! Join in the celebrations on August 15th when cultural events are organised around the church of Panayia Ekatontapyliani.

Hot tips for young people:
• Discover the island on horseback! There are two horse riding centres, one by the sea, at Ambelás, and one at Ystérni. Ride around the coast, along sandy beaches or take a detour inland – a great way to see for yourself some of the most beautiful spots on the island!
• Sun-drenched beaches, like Chrissí Aktí, Santa Maria and Poúnda, welcome sun-loving visitors who want to enjoy not only the crystal clear waters of the sea but also their favourite water sports, especially windsurfing!
• The beach of Kalóyeros, surrounded by red and green clay rocks, offers a really effective natural spa for free! Cover your body with the clay and let it dry in the sun; after a while rinse yourself in the sea and your body will feel softer than ever!