The two marble statues of young men have been lying in the ancient quarry for 2,600 years. Due to imperfections in the stone, the sculptors abandoned their work where they can still be seen today.  Our route first takes us to a large Venetian fortress. We continue through olive groves and macchia to Chalki, one of the most beautiful villages on Naxos.

Our day’s efforts are immediately rewarded with a delicious lunch in a local taverna. Afterwards we take a transfer back to Naxos town, where we spend the night again.

According to local legend, the cave on the north-western side of the mountain was Zeus’ birthplace. During the climb, we can look forward to spectacular panoramic views of the whole island and the deep blue Aegean that lies beyond the island’s shores.

Once we return to Naxos town, the afternoon is free to do with as you please. Perhaps you would like to enjoy a refreshing swim at the beautiful sandy beaches nearby or simply relax. Overnight stay in Naxos town.

Our ferry crossing through the island world of the Cyclades takes about 2.5 hours. Koufonisi is made up of two tiny islands separated by a strait only 200 m wide. Together, the two islets form a paradise of unspoilt beauty.

A real jewel in the middle of the Aegean! The locals claim that there are more boats than inhabitants. Cars are also practically non-existent; here most people walk or cycle. Overnight stay on Koufonisi.

Bays after bays indent the shoreline filled with the numerous sparkling shades of the blue sea. In areas, the turquoise of the water is so spectacular you might think you were looking at a photoshopped picture were you not standing right there.

In Pori, we have time to swim before returning to the hotel. In the late afternoon, we take the ferry to Amorgos, the easternmost of all the Cycladic islands. Here our next wonderland awaits with crystal clear water and an immensely peaceful atmosphere. Overnight stay on Amorgos.

After breakfast we set off on a fantastic round hike, passing the traditional villages of Langada and Tholaria and visiting the monastery of Epanochoriani. The trail leads through hilly countryside with lush vegetation, centuries-old stone walls, and numerous whitewashed churches. Experience Greece’s island idyll at its best!

Once we return to the hotel, you can relax for the rest of the afternoon. Overnight stay on Amorgos.

Such beauty simply must be explored, so we have plenty of time to take a stroll along the streets and through the alleys. Afterwards, we leave Chora and head towards the oft-photographed Chozoviotisa Monastery, one of the most extraordinary Byzantine monasteries in Greece. Like an eagle’s nest, it nestles into a steep cliff high above the blue waters of the Aegean.

After visiting the monastery, we continue our hike on paved mule paths to Aegali. A transfer takes us back to the hotel and we spend the night on Amorgos.

Once in Naxos, it is time to either travel home or extend your holiday on Naxos or in Greece. If you would like to see more of the Cyclades, our 4-day extension programme ‘Best of Santorini’ is perfect for you.