Naxos: Countryside hike among villages & Byzantine churches

The hike takes a route through small and picturesque traditional villages and areas of unrivaled natural beauty. You'll start and end your hike at Halki, a gem village which boasts samples of remarkable neoclassical architecture. You'll be leaving Halki behind us as you hike through the scenic valley of Tragea, dotted with Byzantine churches different in architectural style and from various eras, some decorated with outstanding frescoes. You ’ll hike through the area’s olive, fig, and citrus groves to reach Panagia Drosiani, one of the Balkans’ oldest churches. Dating back to the 6th century AD, it’s considered one of Naxos’ most significant Christian monuments. Halfway into your hike, you’ll be reaching the village of Moni and, after a short break under the shade of the trees, you’ll continue to the scenic small villages of Kaloxylos and Akadimoi. There you will make a stop at the old Olive press factory. In this atmospheric space, you will discover the way in which olive oil was produced a hundred years ago. Then in the heart of the village of Kaloxylos you'll visit the folklore museum where you will have the opportunity to take a step back in time and marvel at the rare collections of a bygone age. From start to finish, you’ll be in the company of Nature: forested landscapes, dirt trails and stone-paved paths, a verdant ravine, clusters of oaks and plane trees, all join forces to make your hike an unforgettable one! At the end of your hike, you'll visit the local distillery producing Kitron, Naxos’ citrus-based liqueur, to toast life, laughter, new friends, and a day to remember! Your hike ends with a delicious meal at one of the island's best traditional tavernas under the shade of a climbing grapevine (optional meal). Join us and experience true Naxos at its best!