A Private Taste of Naxos' Heritage

Explore Naxian heritage with local flavors in every step of the way!
Duration:
5 hours
Destinations:
Traditional Olive Press in Naxos
per person in a group of 4 people 228

If you find yourselves in Naxos with a few hours to spare, there is no better activity than a private tour that effortlessly combines culture and gastronomy! This journey through charmingly traditional villages includes stops in every step of the way and sprinkles in place with local flavors to boot! The village of Damalas will serve as an introduction to the time-honored tradition of pottery with a visit to a workshop. Chalki, a beautiful place situated in a fertile plateau, will include a visit to a distillery where the liqueur 'Kitro' is produced. You will not only taste 'Kitron', but learn the secrets of the liqueur made out of citrus fruits and leaves, this spirit is only produced on the island of Naxos! Next up is the small village of Kaloxylos, where a tasting of olive oil will ensue in a local, century-old olive press. For our last stop we have chosen Apeiranthos, a village on the mountains of Naxos that makes you forget that you are even on an island. It is there that you will partake in a meal filled with traditional Naxian dishes to cap off a magnificent day steeped in unique flavors!

Daily upon request

Group size Price per person
2 persons 338 €
3 persons 304 €
4 persons 228 €
5 persons 182 €

After we pick you up from your hotel, we will make our way inland, to the heart of the island, to reach the charming village of Damalas. Serving as the perfect introduction to the quiet side of islandic life, Damalas combines serenity and tradition to create a beautiful place where time seems to slow down. Our exploration into Naxian heritage will begin with the art of pottery, a time-honored tradition among the locals! We will visit a local workshop and observe the skilled ceramist carefully mold the clay into magnificent shapes, slowly creating a unique artefact while showcasing techniques passed down through generations.

From there we will move on to Chalki, arguably one of Naxos' most beautiful villages, due to it being adorned by neoclassical mansions. The crowning jewel of the village is the Byzantine church of Saint George Diasoritis, which was built in the 11th century. While in Chalki, we will visit the Vallindras Distillery, the birthplace of 'Kitron' liqueur. Produced only in Naxos, 'Kitron' is an acquired taste but something every visitor of the island must try! We will tour the grounds and taste the liqueur made out of citrus fruit and leaves while learning everything we can about the process, from garden to bottle.

We continue our journey to the serene Naxian countryside, heading towards Kaloxylos, a place that remains off the beaten path and free from mass tourism. It is time for yet another immersion into Naxian culture with a tour of a century-old olive press for a presentation and tasting of olive oil. We shall sample a carefully curated selection of premium local olive oils, each showcasing unique flavor profiles and characteristics, while once again learning about the traditional methods employed in the production of the local flavors.

There is no better way to conclude a tour that combines culture and gastronomy than with a meal in a traditional tavern. For that we will add yet another village to our repertoire by reaching Apeiranthos. Situated on the mountains of Naxos, Apeiranthos' obstructed view of the sea gives you the unique impression that you are no longer on an island. This unique setting makes it a favorite destination for many. We will first stroll along its marble-paved alleys, and soak in the natural allure of the village, before sitting down for a traditional meal paired with local wine! Can you think of a better ending to a perfect day?

  • Pick up from & drop off to your hotel
  • English-speaking driver & escort
  • Visit to a ceramics workshop
  • Visit to a liqueur distillery
  • Spirits & liqueurs tasting accompanied by sweet & savory dishes
  • Visit to an olive mill
  • Entrance fees to the olive mill
  • Meal (set menu) at the Village of Apeiranthos

Not Included:

  • Customary tips to your driver & escort
  • Food or beverages not indicated in the itinerary
  • It is recommended to bring a hat and sunscreen with you and to wear comfortable shoes
  • If your hotel is located far from Chora, an additional charge may apply
  • For requests larger than 5 persons please contact us for a price quote
  • The lunch or dinner at Apeiranthos is a set menu. A sample menu usually includes: Greek Salad, assortment of local cheeses, one shared appetizer, one main course, dessert & wine. Please inform us beforehand of any dietary restrictions.