Paxi

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The Island of Passion

Sceneries of Captivating Beauty and Atmosphere of Ultimate Tranquility on the Benjamin of the Ionian 
Once upon a time… Paxi is something more than a fairytale! Refugee for Amphitrite and Cleopatra, the Benjamin of the Ionian is a mysterious paradise. Glorified from the designs of Leonardo da Vinci, Paxi is a tropical paradise where every corner seems as if has sprung from his paintings. Whatever Paxi might lack in size, it replenishes in landscapes and colours; besides they say less is more. A divine island with turquoise waters and verdant vegetation; even the first impressions will surpass your expectations! Since their big bang, Paxi was the destination for ultimate relaxation. Besides, what else could be a place born when Poseidon struck his trident to Corfu with the intention of creating an island to isolate his beloved Amphitrite? What less could fit the god of the seas other than a complex of Lilliputian islands covered with green forests and surrounded from turquoise waters? The crystalline waters resemble pure illuminations of the most beautiful colours of the world while thousands of olive trees reach the sea in the rustles of the windy waves. However, the exotic finesse of Paxi does not only comprise from the steep cliffs, the divine colours and the historical paths; the locals are the true soul and spirit of Paxi showcased from their dialect and their incredible stories that come from Venice. One thing is certain; the Paxians will eventually transmit their love for Paxi to you! The finesse shines on the facades of the traditional buildings of Gaios with the Venetian ocher and terracotta, the lilliputian picturesqueness of Loggas and the traditional atmosphere of Magazia. Blessed with authentic sceneries and lilliputian landscapes, Paxi will give you unforgettable memories. Undoubtedly, Paxi is the ultimate place to live illicit love, to stimulate your divine inspirations and to detoxify from the sounds of your life. Just let yourself travel to the classical sounds of the musical festival of Paxi and you will find your dolce vita with the black wine from the vineyards of Antipaxos! Besides, what could be more exciting than meeting your new love?

Discover Paxi

Best of Paxi

The Capital of Paxos

The Settlement of Gaios is the capital of Paxos located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful harbors of the Ionian Sea. Traditional houses of the Ionian architecture spread around the natural bay surrounded from the satellite isles of Agios Nikolaos and Panagia. The charming settlement has managed to preserve its traditional character. The harbour of Gaios is an ideal mooring for sailboats and yachts. Worth visiting sights include the church of Agioi Apostoli, and the castle of Agios Nikolaos.

The Beach of Voutoumi

The Beach of Voutoumi is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of Antipaxos Island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the country distinguished for its tropical sceneries and its verdurous vegetation.

The Cape of Eremites

The Cape of Eremites is one of the most beautiful locations of Paxi located on the west side of the island. When the sunlight reflects on the crystalline waters, it creates an astonishing iridescence.

The Castle of Agios Nikolaos

The Castle of Agios Nikolaos is located on the summit of the isle of Agios Nikolaos that shelters the harbour of Gaios. The castle was constructed from the Venetians from 1423 to 1510 according to the designs of Leonardo da Vinci. Today, traces of the defensive walls, a watchtower, the arsenal and some canons are the sole significant remains. The castle is accessible through a short boat trip from the harbour of Gaios.

The International Classical Music Festival of Paxos

The International Classical Music Festival of Paxos takes place in the village of Loggos every August. The festival hosts classical musical events with the participation of both native and foreign musicians for a period of one month.

The Island of Antipaxos

The Island of Antipaxos is the smallest island of the Ionian Islands located three nautical miles off the southern coast of Paxos. It is one of the mysterious gems of Greece distinguished for its exotic sceneries and its verdant vegetation. The natural landscape is full of vineyards that produce excellent red wine, a true paradise for wine connoisseurs. Voutoumi and Vrika are the two main beaches of the island located on the northern end of Antipaxos while you will find isolated and secluded coves on the southern coast of the island. Hiking enthusiasts can follow the footpath that crosses the island from the one end to the other starting from the gulf of Vrika. Antipaxos is accessible through a short boat tour from Paxos.

Castles & Fortresses

The Castle of Agios Nikolaos is located on the summit of the isle of Agios Nikolaos that shelters the harbour of Gaios. The castle was constructed from the Venetians from 1423 to 1510 according to the designs of Leonardo da Vinci. Today, traces of the defensive walls, a watchtower, the arsenal and some canons are the sole significant remains. The castle is accessible through a short boat trip from the harbour of Gaios.

Churches and Monasteries

The Church of Agioi Apostoli is one of the most beautiful churches of Paxi located at the central square of Gaios. The church distinguishes for its impressive wall paintings and its ancient cistern.

The Church of Hypapante is located in the village of Gramatikaika. According to local tradition, the church was constructed from a shepherd who found there the icon of Virgin Mary. The church stands out for its bell tower with the heraldic marks and stone doves.

The Monastery of Panagia Velaniton is located on the summit of the isle of Panagia that shelters the harbour of Gaios. The monastery is open for pilgrims on the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary that takes place on August 15. The monastery is accessible through a short boat trip from the harbour of Gaios.

Monuments

The Cisterns of Paxos were considered to be an essential component for the islanders due to the fact that the island suffered from water scarcity. Rain used to be precious for the islanders as they used to store through these monumental cisterns. The cisterns of Paxos are considered to be part of the cultural heritage of the island and they are scattered all around the island. The most notable cisterns are located at the churchyards of Agioi Apostoli in Gaios and Agia Eleousa in Vlahopoulatika and the castle of Agios Nikolaos on the homonymous isle.

The Lighthouse of Lakka is located on the northernmost point of the island. The original lighthouse was built from the British in 1825 and operated with olive oil. Following a devastating earthquake, the lighthouse was destroyed and replaced from a new one in 1919. The lighthouse is accessible from the village of Lakka.

The Lighthouse of Panagia is located on the summit of the isle of Panagia that shelters the harbour of Gaios. The lighthouse was manufactured from the British in 1815 and it was included in the network of the Greek lighthouse in 1863.

The Mansion of Anemogiannis is one of the best preserved neoclassical buildings of Paxos located in the village of Loggos. Giorgos Anemogiannis was a hero of the Greek Revolution of 1821 and one of the first fire raisers of the Greek fleet.

Museums

The Folklore and Historical Museum of Paxos is housed in a traditional building of 1906 in the village of Gaios. The museum was established from the Cultural Association of Paxi with the intention of maintaining and preserving the cultural heritage of the island. The museum is open from May to October.

The Olive Oil Museum of Paxos is located in the village of Magazia. The museum was established to preserve the rich olive oil making tradition of Paxos. It consists from a stone olive press that has been recently renovated. One will have the opportunity to learn the traditional methods of olive making.

Natural Beauties

The Cape of Eremites is one of the most beautiful locations of Paxi located on the west side of the island. When the sunlight reflects on the crystalline waters, it creates an astonishing iridescence.

The Caves of Mongonissi is located on the southwestern side of the island. It is a strange geographical phenomenon that consists from a series of caves within an area of five kilometers. Mongonissi caves distinguish for their wild beauty ideal for underwater diving explorations.

The Isle of Agios Nikolaos is a verdant isle that shelters the harbour of Gaios. The landmarks of the isle include the castle of Agios Nikolaos that was constructed from the Venetians in 1423 according to the designs of Leonardo da Vinci, an old windmill and the chapels of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Ioannis. The views from Agios Nikolaos isle to the harbour of Gaios are breathtaking.

The Island of Antipaxos is the smallest island of the Ionian Islands located three nautical miles off the southern coast of Paxos. It is one of the mysterious gems of Greece distinguished for its exotic sceneries and its verdant vegetation. The natural landscape is full of vineyards that produce excellent red wine, a true paradise for wine connoisseurs. Voutoumi and Vrika are the two main beaches of the island located on the northern end of Antipaxos while you will find isolated and secluded coves on the southern coast of the island. Hiking enthusiasts can follow the footpath that crosses the island from the one end to the other starting from the gulf of Vrika. Antipaxos is accessible through a short boat tour from Paxos.

The Rock of Ortholithos is a huge rock located on the southwest side of the island. The name identifies its identity, a standing rock in the sea. The imposing vertical rock plunges into the crystalline waters giving great sceneries in the landscape.

The Thermal Springs of Paxos have been known for their therapeutic properties since antiquity, especially for rheumatic and skin diseases. The thermal springs are located in the areas of Gianna, Glyfada and Ozia.

Promenades and Villages

Gaios is the capital of Paxos located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful harbors of the Ionian Sea. Traditional houses of the Ionian architecture spread around the natural bay surrounded from the satellite isles of Agios Nikolaos and Panagia. The charming settlement has managed to preserve its traditional character. The harbour of Gaios is an ideal mooring for sailboats and yachts. Worth visiting sights include the church of Agioi Apostoli, and the castle of Agios Nikolaos.

Lakka is a seaside village located on the northern side of the island. The beautiful settlement nestles around the natural bay. Verdant hills drop gently to the blue of the sea providing shelter for sailboats and yachts from the prevailing winds. The village is an ideal place for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. Worth visiting sights include the lighthouse of Lakka for its beautiful views and the church of Hypapante for its wall paintings. The surrounding area is dotted with beautiful beaches including Arkoudaki, Kanoni, Planthi and Vigla.

Loggos is a seaside village located on the southeast side of the island. Characterized as one of the most beautiful villages of Paxos, Loggos is a charming settlement with a tranquil atmosphere. One can hire a motorboat from the harbour of Loggos to explore the beautiful beaches of the surrounding areas. It is worth mentioning that the International Classical Music Festival of Paxos is held in Loggos every August while the Spring Music Festival takes place in May. The main attraction of the village is the industrial remains of the oil and soap factory of Anemogiannis that dominate the harbour. The surrounding area is ideal for hiking excursions.

Magazia is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Blessed with verdant vegetation of cypress trees and olive groves, the tiny settlement has a traditional character. It is worth visiting the central square with the traditional cafeteria, the church of Taxiarhes and the Olive Oil Museum. Lovers of hiking can follow the route that leads to the settlements of Katsimatika and Vlahopoulatika with the old cisterns and the ancient warehouses. One can also visit the church of Agioi Apostoli to enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets of Paxos and the area of Kastanida for its wild natural beauty.

Platanos, else known as Fontana, is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. The charming settlement is the smallest village of Paxos distinguished for its traditional character. The landmark of Platanos is the huge plane tree of the central square of the village. It is worth enjoying your coffee at the traditional cafeteria of the village and pay a visit to the church of Stavromenos for its beautiful wall paintings. Kaki Lagada, one of the most beautiful beaches of Paxos, is just a short drive from Fontana.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Eremites, West Paxos

Spot: Beach of Galazio, Southwest Paxos

Spot: Lighthouse of Lakka, North Paxos

Spot: Ostria Bogdanatika, South Paxos

Excursions

Boat Trip: The Island of Corfu needs no recommendations. Conquered from mortals and immortals, it is undeniable that Corfu possesses its own exceptional beauty, a true jewel in the Ionian Sea. Interweaved with the Adriatic Sea, the land of the Phaecians, the last destination of Odysseus, is the crossroads between the East and the West. Notorious for its verdant vegetation and its endless sea, Corfu refers to other levels of aristocracy. Just a promenade to the cobblestone alleys and the imposing squares of the duchess of the Ionian promises a nostalgic journey through the centuries. Corfu is a natural wonder itself, a mysterious island that combines the old with the new, the mountains with the sea, the classic spirit with the eccentric soul. The jewel of the island, the Old Town of Corfu, is just an echo of the Byzantine splendor of the East and the geometry grandeur of the West, a confluence of cultures in the very depths of the genuine soul of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cobblestone alleys perfumed with the air of the Venetian nobility, monumental legacies of the British and imposing arcades of the French blend in a mosaic of cultures. Exotic sceneries and turquoise waters, pictorial villages and Venetian aristocratism, verdant valleys and natural wonders; grasp your keys and start driving to the endless beauties of Corfu. And the scenario of your journey begins. Beauty is incomparable in the villages of Corfu distinguished for their distinctive character of another, bygone area while endless beaches with emerald, sapphire and turquoise waters guarantee dives into paradisiacal sceneries. Corfu will not try to conquest your soul. Just like this, she will leave you discover all of her secrets on your own time. An alluring amalgamation of aristocratic elements proves that Corfu is an island with millions of faces. How would it be possible to fall in love with Corfu at the first sight? And when you journey will come to an end, you will definitely travel back again to discover the other mysteries of Corfu, because there will always be a next time. Inspired for its spectacular sunsets over Homer’s rich land, Corfu will never let you go, an escape to a genuine utopia of serenity!

Activities

Bicycling: The countryside of Paxi is an ideal place for cycling lovers. There are numerous bicycle rentals on the island where you can rent a bicycle and discover the beaches and villages of Paxi.

Bird Watching: The flora and fauna of Paxi is quite remarkable. The island has the perfect environment for thousands native and migratory birds. Particularly in the mountainous areas of Paxi, one will have the opportunity to encounter endangered bird species including Blackcap Warblers, Grey Herons, Sparrow Hawks, Dunlins, Scop Owls, Black Redstarts, Red Robins. Pied Flycatchers and Spanish House Sparrows. The most popular areas of Paxos for bird watching include the bay of Loggos and the village of Lakka.

Diving: The varied coastline of Paxi offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. The cave of Angelos, the reef of Agrila, the rock of Petritis, the cave of Seals, the Cathedral cave, the tunnel of Pounda, the isle of Mogonisi and the reef of Kaki Lagada are some of the most interesting diving spots. One will find diving centers at the villages of Lakka and Gaios.

Hiking: Paxi hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes starts from the village of Gaios and leads to the village of Lakka. The route passes through the traditional settlements of Magazia, Katsimatika and Vlahopoulatika. (2) Another interesting trail starts from the meadows of Lakka and passes through the olive groves of Paxos leading to the settlement of Vasilatika. (3) It is also worth following the routes that start from the village of Loggos. (4) The trail from Mousmouli to Porto Ozias and the route from Manessatika to the church of Hypapante.

Kayaking: The opportunity to practice kayak in Paxi is definitely an unforgettable experience. You will have the chance to admire spectacular rocky formations and the beautiful beaches. One will find kayak rental facilities at the beach of Mogonisi.

Sailing: Paxi is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Paxos and Antipaxos are the smallest islands of the Ionian Sea located off the southern coast of Corfu. The west coast of Paxos is dominated from steep cliffs, underwater caves and verdant vegetation while the east coast is dominated from numerous secluded beaches covered with cypress trees and olive groves. As the island enjoys a warm and sunny Mediterranean climate, Paxi is an ideal destination for sailing from April to September. Numerous natural harbors offer shelter to sailboats and yachts protected from windy weather conditions. The bays of Lakka, Loggos, Gaios and Mogonisi are the most popular spots for anchorage. It is worth sailing around the sandy beaches of Antipaxos including Voutoumi and Vrika.

Thermal Springs: The thermal springs of Paxos have been known for their therapeutic properties since antiquity. They have healing properties for various treatments including rheumatic and skin diseases. The thermal springs of the island are located in the areas of Gianna, Glyfada and Ozias.

Beaches

Agios Nikolaos is a verdant isle located in front of the bay of Gaios. . The landmarks of the isle include the castle of Agios Nikolaos that was constructed from the Venetians in 1423 according to the designs of Leonardo da Vinci, an old windmill and the chapels of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Ioannis. The views from Agios Nikolaos isle to the harbour of Gaios are breathtaking.

Arkoudaki is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. Arkoudaki beach is accessible from the village of Lakka.

Harami is a sandy and pebbled beach with crystalline waters located on the north side of Paxos Island. It is a well organized beach with sunbeds, umbrellas and water sport facilities while there are numerous cypress and olive trees that provide shaded spots. Next to the beach, you will find a nice tavern.

Kaki Lagada is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the island distinguished for its tropical sceneries and its verdant vegetation. Kaki Lagada beach offers abundant natural shade. A canteen operates on the beach during the summer.

Kamini is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. Kamini beach is accessible from the village of Gaios.

Kipiadi is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Paxos distinguished for its rocky hills and its verdant vegetation. Kipiadi beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation.

Kloni is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. Kamini beach is accessible from the village of Gaios.

Lakkos is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. Arkoudaki beach is accessible from the village of Lakka.

Levrehio is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Paxos due to its close proximity to Gaios. The olive trees provide many shaded areas. Levrehio beach is ideal for families and children. Right next to the beach, there is a nice tavern.

Loggos is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the northeast side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most charming beaches of Paxos ideal for those looking for relaxation. Loggos is known for its traditional fish taverns.

Marmari is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the east side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation.

Mesovrika is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of the Antipaxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. Mesovrika beach offers panoramic views to the bay of Paxos. One will find taverns at the beaches of Vrika and Voutoumi.

Monodedri is a sandy and pebbled beach with crystalline waters located on the northeast side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Paxos that stands out for it white pebbles and its verdant vegetation. Monodedri beach is well organized with sunbeds, umbrellas and a small tavern.

Mogonisi is a sandy beach with crystalline waters located on the south side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most popular beaches of the island distinguished for its verdant vegetation and its idyllic sceneries. Mogonisi beach is also an ideal mooring for sailboats and yachts.

Plakes is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the southeast side of Paxos Island. It is one of the most popular beaches of the island due to its walking distance from Gaios. Plakes beach is rocky with white pebbles surrounded from dense olive vegetation.

Pounda is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of Paxos Island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility.

Voutoumi is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of Antipaxos Island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of the country distinguished for its tropical sceneries and its verdurous vegetation. There is a tavern on the hill above the beach.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktail Inspirations

Coffee Corners 

Ariston: Traditional Cafeteria, Lakka

Bournaos: Traditional Cafeteria, Magazia

Capriccio: Ice Cream, Gaios

Fanis Bar: Coffee, Lakka

Giappy: Coffee, Lakka

Horiatiko: Traditional Bakery, Gaios

Kalimera: Coffee, Gaios

Sunset: Coffee, Gramatikeika

Theofrastou: Traditional Cafeteria, Lakka

Gastronomic Delights

Apaghio: Greek Cuisine, Gaios

Genesis: Greek Cuisine, Gaios

Karkaletzos: Paxiot Cuisine, Gaios

Lakkiotiko: Ouzo and Meze, Lakka

Nasos: Greek Cuisine, Loggos

Nionios: Greek Cuisine, Lakka

O Gios: Seaffod, Loggos

Taka Taka: Seafood, Gaios

Tolis: Greek Cuisine, Loggos

Vasilis: Greek Cuisine, Loggos

Cocktail Inspirations

Erimitis Bar & Restaurant: Cocktails and Drinks, Magazia

Giappy: Cocktails and Drinks, Lakka

Mouragio: Cocktails and Drinks, Gaios

Roxi Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Loggos

Taxidi Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Loggos

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include a series of agricultural products. Olive oil is one of the main products of Paxi that has been introduced from the Venetians in the medieval times. The vineyards of Antipaxi are famous for the excellent red and black wine of Paxi that has received a protected designation of origin from the European Union.

The local specialties of the island include bourdeto, a dish made with onions sautéed on olive oil with paprika, pepper, tomato sauce and garlic, savoro, a local dish pie, and tsihourdopita, a dish made with the lamp’s liver sprinkled with salt, pepper, onion, olive oil and wine.

Events & Festivals

Every June, the Spring Music Festival takes place on the island of Paxos. The festival is organized from the Paxos Festival Trust and the Cultural Association of Paxos.

Every July, the Varkarola Custom is held in Paxos, where choirs in boats sing the traditional romantic songs of the 19th century, known as kantades, while fireworks are thrown in the sky. The custom has its roots in the Venetian period.

Every 20th of July, the traditional celebration in honor of Prophet Elias takes place in the village of Lakka.

Every August, the International Music Festival takes place in the village of Loggos. The festival hosts classical musical events with the participation of both native and foreign musicians for a period of one month.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place at the monastery Virgin Mary in the isle of Panagia. The feast is followed from traditional dance, music and food.

History & Mythology

Mythology

According to mythology, God Poseidon struck his trident to the island of Corfu that caused the formation of the tiny island of Paxos. The island became Poseidon’s favorite refugee, as he hid his secret romance with his beloved Amphitrite on Paxos.

History

Archaeological excavations show that the island has been inhabited since the prehistoric times. The first settlers of Paxos are believed to be the Phoenicians who also colonized Kefalonia. During the 2nd century BC, Paxi came under the control of the Roman and Byzantine Empires up until the domination of the Venetians in 1386. Numerous pirate invasions led to the construction of the two fortresses on the isle of Agios Nikolaos and the village of Lakka in 1423. It is worth noting that the Venetians introduced the cultivation of olive tress of Paxos and the vineyards of Antipaxos. Although the Venetians destroyed the Ottoman fleet in 1537, pirate Barbarossa plundered Paxi in order to take revenge. In 1797, the Venetians gave the island to Napoleon Bonaparte who took control of Paxi. However, the French domination lasted for one year, as the fleet of the Ottomans and the Russians took the administration of the island and declared Paxi part of the Ionian State. In 1814, Paxi came under the British occupation following the Treaty of Tilsit. At that time, the islands enjoyed important improvements in terms of life quality. The Paxians took part in the Greek War of Independence in 1821, although the Ionian Islands were united with Greece in 1864.

Travel & Transport

By Air: Corfu has an international airport with scheduled flights on an annual basis. From April to October, there are charter flights from numerous countries of Europe. The journey from Athens usually lasts forty five minutes to one hour. From Corfu, there are daily services operating to the island of Paxos. Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat: Paxos is accessible by boat from the harbor of Igoumenitsa in Central Greece. The journey from Igoumenitsa usually lasts two hours. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

By Bus: KTEL Buses operate routes from the Kiffisos Station in the city of Athens to the city of Igoumenitsa on a daily basis. The journey usually lasts seven to eight hours. From Igoumenitsa, there are daily boat routes to Paxos.

By Car (520 Kilometers): In order to get to Igoumenitsa, you will have to follow the National Road of Athens to Lamia and take the exit towards Lamia, Karditsa and Trikala and then follow Egnatia Highway. The journey usually lasts nine hours.

Mysterious Greece Tips

Anchor at the Fjord of Paxos

The fjord of Gaios is one of the most beautiful fjords of the Ionian Sea located on the east side of Paxos Island. If you sailed your wings to the Ionian Sea, do not miss the opportunity to anchor at the fjord of Gaios, the incarnation of an earthly paradise! The bay of Gaios is sheltered from the verdurous isle of Panagia with the imposing monastery and the verdant isle of Agios Nikolaos with the traces of the homonymous Venetian castle.

An Excursion to Antipaxos Island

Antipaxos is the smallest island of the Ionian Islands located three nautical miles off the southern coast of Paxos. It is one of the mysterious gems of Greece distinguished for its exotic sceneries and its verdant vegetation. The natural landscape is full of vineyards that produce excellent red wine, a true paradise for wine connoisseurs. Voutoumi and Vrika are the two main beaches of the island located on the northern end of Antipaxos while you will find isolated and secluded coves on the southern coast of the island. Hiking enthusiasts can follow the footpath that crosses the island from the one end to the other starting from the gulf of Vrika. Whether you desire to enjoy dives in turquoise waters or you want to enjoy the absolute serenity of such a place, Antipaxos is the place for you! Antipaxos is accessible through a short boat tour from Paxos.

Descend the 300 Steps of Erimitis

Descending the 300 steps that lead to Erimitis beach, you will feel an undescribable awe from the wild beauty and the imposing landscape of this place. On this earthly paradise, the sea has an imposing crystalline colkour that has emulsified due to the calcareous dust of the bottom. Following the enormous earthquake of 2008, a piece of rock collapsed from the forces of the waves and created the beautiful beach of Erimitis. Ahead of you, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the sun setting in in the astonishing colours of the sea.

Discover the Caribbean in the Ionian

Famous for its turquoise waters, Paxi is endowed from beautiful beaches in all the colours of blue. While the east coast is dominated from sandy shores that gently lead into the sea, the uninhabited west side is renowned for its wild beauty. Vertical and towering cliffs plunge abruptly into the depp waters with mysterious caves and impressive arches. Some of the most beautiful beaches of Paxi cluster include Alati, Kaki Lagada, Kipiadi, Monodendri, Mogonisi and Marmari on Paxos Island and Voutoumi and Vrika on Antipaxos Island.

Diving Explorations

Incomparable natural beauty meets ocean myths and legends. The Greek waters are an exciting world full of mysteries! The brilliant colours of the seabed, the diversity of marine life and the underwater seascapes of Greece await diving adventurers to discover its natural wealth! The cave of Angelos, the reef of Agrila, the rock of Petritis, the cave of Seals, the Cathedral cave, the tunnel of Pounda, the isle of Mogonisi and the reef of Kaki Lagada are some of the most interesting diving spots. One will find diving centers at the villages of Lakka and Gaios.

Enjoy your Cocktail at Erimitis

Rumor has it that the best location to enjoy the sunset of Paxos is the Bar Restaurant of Erimitis. Standing at the top of the cliff, this bar enjoys a unique view over the western coastline with the legendary cave of outstanding beauty!

Explore the Isles of Paxi

Paxi is the smallest cluster of the Ionian Islands located on the northern part of the Ionian Sea. If you desire to find your own corner of paradise, hire a motorboat (no license is needed!)! Head to Daskalia isle, on the south part of Antipaxos, to enjoy the absolute serenity or visit the circular isle of Kaltsonisi with its verdurous vegetation. Standing like guards, Agios Nikolaos and Panagia are the ‘knights’ of the bay of Gaios; you can actually swim there from Gaios! And let’s not forget about Mogonisi isle, on the southernmost tip of Paxos, the favorite desitnation of sailors!

From Paxos With Love: Olive Oil

Despite its tiny size, Paxos feels pride for its excellent virgin olive oil! Indeed, the olive oil of Paxos has won numerous awards for its unique taste and quality. If you want to discover more information about the rich traditiona of oil cultivation, you can visit the Olive Oil Museum of Paxos located in the village of Magazia. The museum was established to preserve the rich olive oil making tradition of Paxos. It consists from a stone olive press that has been recently renovated. One will have the opportunity to learn the traditional methods of olive making.

From Antipaxos With Love: Black Wine

Sweet and dark, the wine of Antipaxos is known all over Greece. As the island is small such is production; however it is worth tasting it, so do seek out for it!

Hiking Explorations

On Paxos, you should definitely follow the rural roads through the olive groves to discover the beautiful countryside of the island. Whether you want to explore the steep slopes of the west coast or you desire to discover the verdurous nature of the island, Paxos has it for you! Grab a map and start exploring!

Hire A Motorboat or Hop Into A Boat

Hiring a motorboat can offer a unique opportunity to explore the magnificent coastline of Paxi. As the most beautiful beaches of the island are inaccessible from land, you will require a boat to visit them. However, you can also hop into an excursion boat! The stunning west coast of Paxos, else known as Kamara, the blue caves and the vertical cliffs of Antipaxos, the Caribbean waters of Voutoumi beach, the wild cape of Erimitis on Paxos, the imposing rock of Ortholithos and the divine beach of Galazio are some of the most beautiful spots you will have the oppoorutnity to explore if you rent a motorboat! One will find boat rental facilities in the village of Gaios.

Rejuvenate Your Body in the Thermal Springs of Paxos

The thermal springs of Paxos have been known for their therapeutic properties since antiquity. They have healing properties for various treatments including rheumatic and skin diseases. The thermal springs of the island are located in the areas of Gianna, Glyfada and Ozias.

Sail Your Winds in Paxi

Paxi is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Paxos and Antipaxos are the smallest islands of the Ionian Sea located off the southern coast of Corfu. The west coast of Paxos is dominated from steep cliffs, underwater caves and verdant vegetation while the east coast is dominated from numerous secluded beaches covered with cypress trees and olive groves. As the island enjoys a warm and sunny Mediterranean climate, Paxi is an ideal destination for sailing from April to September. Numerous natural harbors offer shelter to sailboats and yachts protected from windy weather conditions. The bays of Lakka, Loggos, Gaios and Mogonisi are the most popular spots for anchorage. It is worth sailing around the sandy beaches of Antipaxos including Voutoumi and Vrika.

Photo Credits

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Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Aerial Paxos: Shutterstock

Aerial View of Voutoumi: Shutterstock

Antipaxi: Dimitris Siskopoulos by Flickr

Antipaxos Caves: Shutterstock

Cave: Phillip Burgess by Flickr

Erimitis Bay: Nikos_m by Flickr

Gaios View: Shutterstock

Gaios Village: Shutterstock

Galazio Beach: SteveInLeighton’s Photos by Flickr

Lakka Bay: Shutterstock

Logos village: Andrew Gustar by Flickr

Panagia Isle: Vince Smith by Flickr

Sailing in Paxoi: Dimitris Siskopoulos by Flickr

Sunset at Erimitis: Alex by Flickr

Tripitos Arch on Paxos: Shutterstock

Voutoumi Beach: Shutterstock