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THE ESSENCE OF PAROS

HIT RESET ON THE ORDINARY. Picturesque wind- opposite, scuba diving and wind-surfing schools, food and
ing alleys, adrenaline-fueled watersports, arresting tradi- drink available, and more. In fact, the Professional Wind-
tional architecture, beautiful beaches and much more is surfing Association's World Cup has been taking place at
what Paros has to offer, along with a relaxing atmosphere the nearby New Golden Beach ever since 1993. Another
and genuine Greek hospitality. shore to mention is Pounda, in the west, which is an illus-
Certainly among the fastest-rising stars of travel-focused trious global destination for kite-surfers of various skill
social media, Paros island manages to pack Cycladic charm, levels. From beginners to fully-fledged pros, kite-surf-
amazing nature and incredibly diverse experiences in one ing aficionados ride the waves in the strait between Paros
round-shaped rock. In fact, it was voted the best island in and its sister island, Antiparos, where the wind and wave
Europe for 2020 by Travel+Leisure magazine. Boasting conditions are ideal for this pursuit. Two more beaches to
55km of coastline and several picturesque towns and set- make sure you visit are the tranquil, pristine Kalogeros,
tlements, this is the island of surprises and endless choices. with crystal-clear waters and its green mud, which is excep-
tional for your skin as it dries in the sunshine before you
THE BASICS dive into the sea, and the organized and posh Monastiri
Conveniently, Paros features a contemporary airport, beach, with its stunning rocks and several amenities. Even
which takes half an hour to reach from Athens. Charter closer to Naoussa is Lageri beach. It has an unusual shape,
flights can get you here directly, and you can also fly in unforgettable waters and endless nooks and crannies to
from Thessaloniki and Crete. If you’re traveling by ferry, sunbathe at. A short walk from there, Santa Maria is one
it’s one of the quickest voyages you can take from Pirae- to be pampered at as you endlessly watch the surfers with
us Port, at 3.5-5 hours, depending on your line of choice. a cocktail or Greek wine in hand. Also worth exploring is
Once you’re here and staying at the lavish Parīlio or the Mikri Santa Maria Beach, just a short walk from there,
Right next to surfing haven Santa Maria, Mikri Santa Maria Beach (above) is quieter, a local favorite with crystalline waters. immaculate Acron Villas, you have everything you could which is much quieter – and popular with the locals for its
Below, snapshots from the traditional village of Lefkes, where the pace of life is still slow and relaxed. wish for at your fingertips. However, should you want to fine white sand and laid-back vibe.
venture further from your accommodation and discover
this idyllic island, there is so much to do. TOWNS & VILLAGES
The labyrinthine alleys of Naoussa have become a favorite
A WEALTH OF BEACHES spot for visitors from the world over, who love to get lost
On this Greek island, more than 30 great beaches for swim- amidst the whitewashed cubic buildings with their colorful
ming, snorkeling and diving await – including five Blue Flag bursts of bougainvillea and exciting shop windows. Locat-
beaches, although they all have exceptionally clear, inviting ed very close to the Kanava Hotels & Resorts on Paros –
waters. Some are excellent lifestyle spots to be seen; oth- so much it’s accessible on foot – Naoussa has a little bit of
ers secluded, serene, almost private; yet others attract the everything, from inspiring art galleries to Mycenaean and
crème de la crème of watersport enthusiasts from around Venetian antiquities, and a range of bars and restaurants
the world. And the list goes on. to suit every mood. Despite the town being a magnet for
A stone’s throw from your Kanava accommodation, near jet-setters and island-hoppers, the vibe here remains re-
Naoussa, Kolympithres Beach is one of the most recog- laxed and quintessentially Mediterranean, with many rush-
nizable – and well-shared – spots in Paros. The reason? ing to toast the sunset in the Old Port seafront area with
Surreal granite formations that have been sculpted by the a glass of local beer, Greek wine or cocktail. Visit early in
waves, a playful exhibition of nature’s artistry. The unique the morning, so you can catch the fishermen returning to
scenery combined with warm, inviting waters makes it a shore with their catch – and even buy their freshest fare.
must-visit for all. On the south-eastern part of the island, It is also an excellent time to take pictures of this stunning
Golden Beach is a 700m-long stretch of golden, sparkling town and get to know its more authentic side, before the
sand that offers something for everyone, with sunbeds and midday sun inspires you to head to the beach.
umbrellas, water sports, boat access to an uninhabited islet On the east coast, the island’s capital and main port

PAROS WAS VOTED BEST ISLAND IN EUROPE FOR 2020.

WITH 55KM OF COASTLINE AND SEVERAL PICTURESQUE TOWNS AND
SETTLEMENTS, IT OFFERS ENDLESS CHOICES TO THE SAVVY TRAVELER.

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