This full day adventure begins with a 1.5h drive from the west to the east coast of Naxos, through breathtaking landscapes and beautiful villages. We end up at Panermos bay, the most secluded place a car can take you. Palm trees and crystal clear water are the first things that will catch your eye in this remote beach. An ideal spot sheltered from the strong north winds (meltemi). You guessed right, it’s time for a swim!
Soon we are on our way and we hike on one of the most picturesque trail of the island. Next to the sea side, a bit rocky, through thick bushes and pebble beaches. And all these with the constant amazing view of the small Cyclades islands (both Koufonisi islands, Schinousa and Iraklia). After a few kilometres we take a short detour from the main trail in order to visit Androus cave, a deep cave on the base of the mountain! We return to the trail and continue on the same landscape till we reach the small bay where Rina’s sea cave is located. Cliff diving in the turquoise water and swimming in this 30 metre (100ft) long sea cave are the highlights of our final destination.
On the way back we will not hike, but we’ll get aboard a traditional Cycladic wooden boat that will take us back to Panermos bay. Our day will be over with a traditional lunch in one of the villages on our way back to Naxos town.
Hiking distance: 6km (3.7miles) one way, return to Panermos aboard a traditional wooden boat
Difficulty: easy
Starting time: after breakfast, approx. 09.30 a.m.
Total duration: approx. 8h