Hiking in Naxos is more than a walk—it’s a journey through time and nature.

Our adventure begins in Naxos Town (or another designated pick-up location), and after a scenic 15-minute drive through beautiful landscapes, we arrive at the enchanting area of Flerio…

This fertile region, brimming with sycamore trees, olive groves, citrus orchards, and a variety of aromatic herbs, is home to two ancient wonders. Here lie two colossal statues that have rested peacefully for thousands of years. The first, the Kouros of Farangi, is a majestic 5.5-meter (18-foot) statue dating back to the early 6th century BC. Nearby, shaded by a rural garden, rests the Kouros of Flerio—a 6-meter (19.6-foot) figure, believed to have been carved around 570 BC.

We then set off westward, embarking on a hike to another “must-see” marvel: the imposing ruins of the Jesuit Palace. This 17th-century structure, nestled between the villages of Melanes and Potamia, stands as a testament to unique architecture and history, inviting us to explore its deserted grandeur. No matter your pace or experience, hiking in Naxos will leave you inspired and grounded.

Our journey continues as we make our way to the two villages of Potamia. Winding through their charming alleys, we are greeted by a tropical-like landscape, with a serene creek and lush orchards guiding our path. This picturesque setting leads us to Koko’s Tower—a fascinating 17th-century Venetian structure hidden amidst verdant greenery, with a mysterious, perhaps even eerie, story woven into its walls.

As our hike unfolds, we meander through countless olive groves, savoring the tranquility of the landscape, before finally returning to our starting point, completing a day rich in history, beauty, adventure and an optional delicious traditional lunch at a nearby picturesque village!

Along the way, we’ll stop to admire traditional architecture,  and small chapels that dot the landscape. Our guides, all certified and passionate locals, will share with you stories and hidden facts about the island’s rich heritage, flora, and folklore. Every turn on this trail holds something to discover—be it a centuries-old olive tree or a natural spring still used by the villagers. Unlike typical tourist routes, hiking in Naxos through Potamia offers moments of genuine connection.

For those seeking a more immersive cultural moment, the optional lunch isn’t just a meal—it’s an invitation to share in Naxian hospitality. You’ll taste dishes passed down through generations, from slow-cooked meats and stuffed vegetables to homemade cheese and desserts, all served in a traditional courtyard, shaded by vines and bursting with color.

Hiking in Naxos through the Melanes and Potamia valleys offers the perfect balance of outdoor activity, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or a group of friends, this trail invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and discover the quiet magic of inland Naxos—off the beaten path. Whether you’re visiting in spring, when the valleys bloom in vibrant color, or during late summer, when golden light filters through the olive trees, the experience is never the same twice. Each season in Naxos brings its own charm, and this hike invites you to live and breathe the island’s rhythm. This is why hiking in Naxos is one of the best ways to explore the island’s true character

Trail distance: 8km/(5miles)

Difficulty: easy/moderate  

Total Duration: 4-5h (travel/lunch time included)

Starting time: after breakfast, approx. 10 a.m.

We provide

• Local certified guide
• Hotel pick up/ drop off
• Trekking poles
• Backpack
• Snack
• Optional Full-course lunch at the village
• First aid kit

You should wear/bring

• Comfortable clothes and shoes
• Hat/buffer
• Sunscreen lotion
• Water bottle (we encourage our guests to bring reusable and not single-use plastic water bottles! )

max. group size is 6 people (Exceptions for bigger groups after further arrangements)

Tiered discounts apply

Check out our guides : https://offthebeatentrail.gr/who-we-are/

Learn more about the stunning Naxos Island (https://www.visitgreece.gr/islands/cyclades/naxos/) on Visit Greece.