BEST PLACE TO VISIT ON PAXOS Travel
P
axos is a small island in the Ionian Sea, about 8 kilometres from the southern tip of Corfu. Despite its modest size, there is a lot to be seen and to be done on Paxos. In fact, if you’re staying for one of two weeks, you may not be able to take it all in. That means you will have to make a choice. Fortunately, we know what the best places to visit on Paxos are. Depending on the type of traveller you are, below you will find the perfect spots for your holidays on Paxos.
For beach lovers Paxos’ longest beach is Kipiadi. With a length of 300 metres and its remote location on the east coast, you’ll be one of the few people here. The white pebbly beach separates the coniferous woodland from the turquoise sea and makes for a very photogenic scene. There are no tavernas or beach bars, so you will have to bring your own snacks and refreshments. If you prefer a more developed beach, head to Monodendri. Park at Hotel Bastos or Glyfada Beach Villas for direct access to the beach. Sunbeds are waiting for you here because the little pebbles that this beach is made up of, can be a little uncomfortable to sit on. The mesmerizing colours of the sea, ranging from light turquoise to dark blue, will have you taking photos all day. BEST PLACE TO VISIT ON PAXOS
GLYFADA BEACH VILLAS AND RESTAURANT
Ironically, the best beaches of the Paxi archipelago are not on Paxos itself, but on sister island Antipaxos. Antipaxos is only a 15-minute water taxi ride from Gaios and is a whole different world from Paxos. If you thought Paxos was quiet, check out Antipaxos. There are hardly any cars, very few inhabitants, and some of Europe’s finest beaches. On Antipaxos, the white sand and pebbles give way to shimmering bands of green and blue, in a display that reminds of the Caribbean or the South Pacific.
For lovers of Greek cuisine One of the delights of Greece is its cuisine. Similar to other countries in the region, Greece utilises lots of fresh vegetables, seafood, and grilled meats. Tomatoes, eggplant, chickpeas, yoghurt, feta cheese, and herbs are some of the most popular ingredients for Greek dishes. Averto in the tiny town of Magazia is a great place to unwind and enjoy Greek food. With its sea view backyard and quirky interior, you will feel instantly at ease here. It is open from early in the morning till late at night. In Lakka, Taverna Nionios is a popular restaurant. The food is authentic and the prices are relatively low. As one guest remarked: “For seven persons we paid 100 euros.” The taverna’s interior is modest and it has a cute terrace by the harbour. While not on the seafront, 4 Seasons in Loggos is a popular choice. For dining, it is a must to reserve a table – this place fills up early! You will get amazing value for money in this restaurant, which is specialised in traditional Greek food. Greek coffee is worth a try, too. It is very similar to Turkish coffee, Serbian coffee, and Bosnian coffee if you have tried those. This coffee is made by boiling water and finely ground coffee in a tall, narrow cup, after which the coffee, without filtering, is served in a demitasse cup. The coffee is drunk in small sips, allowing time for the grounds to settle. Gaios, the island’s capital, is the best place to have Greek coffee. It has a working port, which means that lots of locals are employed here and will be looking for the perfect cup of Greek coffee. Close to the quays are many small cafes to choose from. Fanalino and Cafe Kalimera seem to be popular with the locals.
For active people Whether you’re brimming with energy or simply like to keep fit, the holidays are the perfect occasion to do so. You don’t have to work so you have heaps of time to get your body moving. And the best thing is – you get to enjoy a beautiful island in the process. One way to be active on Paxos is by hiking its hills and donkey trails. Tripitos Arch is an amazing sight that you should definitely include in your hiking route. Exploring Paxos on a bike is another great way to stay in shape. In Loggos, Lakka, and Gaios you can rent mountain bikes. And if you prefer to cycle in good company, you can join one of their cycling tours. If you are a diver or want to be one, there is a dive centre in Lakka that will cater to your needs: Oasi Sub. With them, you can enjoy a snorkelling safari or dive with a mask, bottle, BCD, and regulator. The high visibility of the Ionian Sea combines with reefs, drop-offs, and a shipwreck that are waiting to be explored.
BEST PLACE TO VISIT ON PAXOS
GLYFADA BEACH VILLAS AND RESTAURANT