Travel Eye on Paros (Cyclades, Greece)

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Overview:

Paros, the third largest of Cyclades after Naxos and Andros has developed into an important centre of tourism in recent years.

Gently rolling hills surround the centre and south-east of the island which is predominately agricultural and is occupied by endless vineyards, and lock within themselves the famous Parian marble.

The coastline is indented, with numerous small inlets and two large bays, those of Naoussa in the north and Parikia in the west. Paros has been inhabited since very ancient times, and was one of the centers of the Cycladic civilization

Pretty Paros' softly contoured hills are the source of the island's famously pure white marble, which brought it prosperity from the Early Cycladic period onwards; both the Venus de Milo and Napoleon's tomb were carved from Parian marble.

Paros is now more famous as the main ferry hub for the Greek islands. The port town of Parikia is awash with ferry travellers, but it's well worth stepping back from the waterfront to visit the old town and its 13th-century Venetian kastro.

If you're into splendid churches don't miss the Panagia Ekatontapyliani, which dates from 325. The island's other major settlement is Naoussa , a laid-back resort with a picturesque fishing village at its core.

Locality:

Paros is 95 miles from Piraeus and 82 miles from Rafina.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

On the north coast, the fishing village of Naoussa has grown into a full-scale resort, and is almost as crowded as Parikia in July and August; the most popular Paros beaches are within easy commuting distance of Naoussa's hotels.

The west coast of the island has long stretches of fine sand, plus wind conditions that have made this the site of the World Cup windsurfing championship every year since 1993.

When you head inland, you'll find narrow, winding streets and lots of characteristic white sugar-cube Cycladic architecture. Charming Lefkes, set within the island's inland hills, has preserved many of its medieval buildings amidst a maze of steep narrow streets.

If possible, take a day or two to explore the island and visit its attractions. Paros is large enough that renting a car makes sense. Then, you can make an around-the-island tour that includes a morning visit to the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes), a visit to Lefkes, a stop for a good lunch in Naoussa, a swim at your beach of choice, and a night back in Parikia, where you can shop and stroll the evening away.