Alyko, Naxos · Greece
Cedar Forest Villa
Your Complete Guest Guide
Install this guide as an app for instant offline access — perfect for when you're out and about on the island.
Cedar Forest Ocean View Villa — Private Heated Pool
Welcome to your home on Naxos! This beautifully designed, modern Cycladic villa sits at the edge of Alyko’s protected cedar forest, just steps from one of the island’s most unspoiled white-sand beaches. With panoramic Aegean views, a private heated pool, and every modern comfort, it’s the perfect base for your Greek island adventure.
Your Host — Kiriaki
Kiriaki has lived on Naxos her entire life and knows every corner of the island. She’ll meet you for check-in (after 3 PM), walk you through the villa, and share her personal picks for restaurants, beaches, and hidden gems. Reach her anytime via WhatsApp at +30 697 900 7259.
WhatsApp KiriakiCheck-in tip: Check-in is after 3:00 PM. Please let us know your arrival time so we can arrange a smooth welcome. Sometimes the villa is available a bit earlier!
Exploring Naxos
A rental car is essential. Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades — five times the size of Santorini! — and many of the best beaches, villages, and restaurants are spread across its diverse landscape.
Naxos Rent a Car by Martha
Recommended3 min walk from port, 25 min drive to villa. Reliable local company with delivery and pickup. Mention Greek Seas when booking!
Key Distances from the Villa
Ferry connections: Ferries run regularly from Naxos Port to Paros (30 min), Santorini (under 2 hours), and Mykonos (under 1 hour). Check schedules at ferries.gr or the Ferryhopper app.
The Taste of Naxos
Naxos is the breadbasket of the Cyclades — the greenest, most fertile island in the chain. Most restaurants work directly with local farmers and fishermen, creating a true farm-to-table experience. Don’t miss: Naxian potatoes, graviera cheese, fresh-caught fish, and the famous citron liqueur.
Dining tip: Greeks eat later than you might expect. Lunch around 2 PM, dinner around 9 PM. Most restaurants happily serve even at 11 PM! It’s no problem to dine earlier — you’ll just have the place more to yourself.
Near the Villa
Faros tou Alykou
2 min walkJust steps from the villa! Delicious food, panoramic sea views, and especially magical at sunset with a drink in hand.
Psili Ammos Restaurant
5 min driveSeaside taverna right on Pyrgaki Beach. Quiet, rarely crowded, and perfect for a long lunch with feet in the sand.
Taverna Axiotissa
8 min driveOne of the most beloved tavernas on Naxos — genuine farm-to-table, seasonal cuisine. Daily specials and house wines are a must. Reserve in peak season.
Manolis Tavern
7 min driveBeachfront taverna with private parking, recommended by locals. Fresh seafood and simple, well-made dishes in a laid-back setting.
O Vasilis
A true local treasure in Melanes. This family farms their own roosters, rabbits, lamb, pigs, and vegetables. The most authentic Naxian food experience. Worth every minute of the 35–40 min drive.
O Galanis
A favorite in the charming old capital of Halki. The homemade Naxian fries and fried meatballs are outstanding, and galaktoboureko dessert comes on the house. 30 min drive.
Matina & Stavros Tavern
Hidden in Koronos, a mountain village on the edge of a gorge. Mrs. Matina cooks from her own farm. Don’t miss the wine-braised rabbit. 50 min drive.
Amvrosia Traditional Cuisine
Traditional taverna in Filoti beneath Mount Zas. Perfect stop during a day exploring inland. 35 min drive.
Rotonda Café-Bar
Perched on a hill near Apiranthos with incredible panoramic views. Ideal for lunch after exploring marble streets. 45 min drive.
Taverna O Efthimis
Taverna with its own private beach on the quiet northwest coast. Come for grilled fish, stay for crystal-clear water. 45–50 min drive.
Labyrinth Wine Restaurant
Romantic wine bar in the old town maze. Perfect for date night. Exceptional wine pairings and small plates. 30–35 min drive.
Boulamatsis
Family-run, beloved by locals. Humble appearance but some of the best authentic Greek dishes on the island. Try the fava and slow-cooked veal. 30 min.
Ta Filarakia
No-frills local gem behind the castle. The best budget restaurant in Naxos Town — simple Greek food, no tourist prices. 30 min.
Metaxi Mas
Wonderful ouzeri-mezedopoulion in the old market. Traditional Naxian flavors, fresh local ingredients. 30 min drive.
Typografio
One of the best on the island. Modern Greek traditional cuisine with quality local products — fresh seafood, local meats, and dairy. 30 min.
Naxos’ Bakery Mikri Vigla
Fresh bread and morning pastries. Spinach pies and honey pastries are local favorites. 10 min drive.
Supermarket Gratsias
Closest grocery option. All essentials including local cheeses, fresh produce, and wine. 5 min drive.
Super Market Koutelieris
Larger supermarket with wider selection. Ideal for a big stock-up shop. 15–20 min drive in Naxos Town.
Sun, Sand & Turquoise Waters
Naxos has over 150 km of coastline with beaches ranging from popular and well-serviced to wild and completely deserted.
Near the Villa
Alyko Beach
2 min walkYour home beach! Wild, unspoiled paradise surrounded by cedar trees and dunes. Explore the abandoned hotel ruins nearby, now covered in striking street art.
Hawaii Beach
5 min walkA hidden gem just west of Alyko. Smooth rock formations, reddish cliffs, wildly romantic. No facilities — bring water and a towel.
Pyrgaki Beach
5 min driveBeautiful and uncrowded with shallow, crystal-clear waters — great for families. Perfect for morning swim or sunset dinner at the beachside taverna.
Worth the Drive
Agiassos Beach
10–15 minPeaceful, crystal-clear water. Local taverna nearby. Great for a calm swim or quiet afternoon.
Mikri Vigla Beach
15 minPopular for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Several tavernas and a beautiful 4 km stretch of undeveloped dunes.
Psili Ammos Beach
30 minTruly powdery-soft sand on the quieter east coast. Shallow, clear waters far from the crowds.
Agia Anna Beach
30 minTrendy beach scene with bars, music, and chair rentals. Fun for an afternoon cocktail.
Abram Beach
45–50 minLesser-known gem on the northwest coast, backed by dramatic mountains. Combine with lunch at Taverna O Efthimis.
5,000 Years of History
Naxos has been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years. According to legend, it’s where Zeus himself grew up. The island’s rich history is visible everywhere — from ancient temples to Byzantine churches and Venetian towers.
Temple of Apollo (Portara)
The most iconic landmark on Naxos — a massive marble doorway standing alone on a small islet connected to Naxos Town. Best viewed at sunset. 30–35 min drive.
Temple of Demeter
Beautifully restored sanctuary dating to 530 BC, built entirely of Naxos marble. Peaceful and photogenic with rolling hill views. 20 min drive.
Kouros of Melanes
Unfinished 6th-century BC statue in a lush garden. Easy 10-min walk from the road. Kids love spotting it! 30 min drive.
Apollonas Kouros
A massive 10-meter, 80-tonne sculpture carved into the hillside. Worth a full day trip with the scenic coastal drive. 1 hour+ drive.
Apano Kastro
The ‘Mystras of the Aegean’ — a ruined Byzantine-Venetian citadel with 360-degree views. Gentle hike from Ano Potamia village. 30 min drive.
Panagia Drosiani Church
One of the oldest churches in the Balkans (late 6th century). Beautiful Byzantine frescoes among olive groves, near Halki. 30 min drive.
Halki (Former Capital)
A must-visit. Pastel neoclassical buildings, marble lanes, the Vallindras Kitron Distillery (free tasting!), Fish & Olive gallery, and the famous ‘black pizza’ at Mitos bar. 30 min drive.
Apeiranthos (Marble Village)
Built almost entirely of marble, high in the mountains. Stone-paved paths, folklore museums, artisan shops. 35 min drive.
Filoti
Lively mountain village beneath Mount Zas. Great tavernas, shaded cafés. Perfect base for the Zas summit hike. 30 min.
Koronos
One of the highest, most remote villages, perched on a gorge edge. Strong winemaking traditions and breathtaking views. 50 min drive.
Apollonas
Remote fishing village on the north coast. The scenic drive alone is worth it. Combine with the Apollonas Kouros for a perfect day trip. 55 min drive.
Trails, Peaks & Hidden Paths
Naxos is one of the best hiking destinations in the Cyclades, with over 30 marked trails through ancient villages, along beaches, and up mountainsides.
Best hiking months: Best hiking months: April, May, September, October. Summer hiking is possible — start early to avoid midday heat. Always carry water and wear good shoes.
Mount Zas Summit
Highest peak in the Cyclades (1,003m). Moderate circular route, 3–4 hours. On clear days, see up to five islands! Pass the Zas Cave where Zeus spent his childhood.
Halki to Panagia Drosiani
Easy, scenic trail through olive groves and citrus orchards to one of the oldest churches in the Balkans. Perfect for beginners.
Melanes–Myli–Kouros Trail
Short, easy walk connecting quaint villages. Visit the ancient Kouros statue, the watermill village of Myli, and the lush Tragea Valley.
Skado to Apollon Bay
Challenging but spectacular — through the wild northern interior. Stone shepherd’s huts, a Mycenaean tomb, ending at the Kouros overlooking the sea.
More to Discover
Guided Hiking with Stella Korre
Exceptional guide with deep knowledge of local plants, Greek history, and Naxian culture. Many visitors say it was the trip highlight.
naxoshiking.comOff the Beaten Trail
Private adventure company: hiking, e-mountain biking, sailing tours. Certified guides, small groups.
offthebeatentrail.grEggares Olive Oil Museum
Free tastings and fascinating exhibits in a traditional setting. Fun and educational, especially for families. 35 min drive.
Vallindras Kitron Distillery
Tour the historic distillery (since 1896), learn citron liqueur production, free tasting of all three varieties. €2 entrance. In Halki, 30 min drive.
Naxos Horse-Riding Centre
Beach treks and riding trails with local guides. A wonderful way to see a different side of the island. 15 min drive.
Routsouna Waterfalls
Rare Cycladic waterfalls — lush greenery and cascading water in the island’s green interior. Magical in spring. 40 min drive.
Good to Know
Important Numbers
Naxos General Hospital
Naxos Town (25–30 min drive from villa)