Attractions and highlights of Paxos

Paxos is a small island in the Ionian Sea, to the west of the Greek mainland. It has no airport and is best reached by taking a ferry from better-known Corfu. Its relative isolation makes Paxos an island where tranquillity and privacy form the basis of your stay. This allows you to enjoy some of the best beaches, most delicious food, and most authentic villages that Greece has to offer.

Beaches

Paxos is quiet and calm. It has a few villages sprinkled on its green hills, between olive groves and limestone rocks. Its main attractions are its beaches. Away from the crowds, these beaches help you relax, reconnect and replenish. Let’s take a look at some of the best beaches on beautiful Paxos.

Monodendri Beach is one of the best beaches on Paxos. It is relatively long and it has sunbeds so you don’t have to lie down on the uneven pebbles. You can even order your cocktail or beer straight from the tavernas behind the beach!

Kaki Langada Beach is about 3 kilometres north of the capital, Gaios. There may be no sunbeds and parasols, but the pine trees offer shade in the afternoon. Also, there is a lovely taverna called Aeolus Beach Bar with anything from frappés to hearty Greek meals.

In the southeast of the island is Mongonissi Beach on the eponymous peninsula. The fine sand and small pebbles, combined with the relatively shallow bay, make this a suitable beach for families with kids.

And even if you’re not a beach lover, you will enjoy the jaw-dropping gorgeousness of sister island Antipaxos. Here, fine white sand hugs turquoise waters, unlike anywhere else in Europe. In fact, people who see your photos will believe that you’ve been to the Caribbean.

Villages

Being as small as it is, there are no cities on Paxos. People live either in complete isolation, in a small hamlet, or a cosy little village. And of these villages, there are three that stand out.

The first is the island’s capital. Gaios is protected by a small island off the coast, creating perfect mooring conditions for yachties and fishermen. This is where you can find your water taxi to neighbouring island Antipaxos. Stroll around its old, pedestrian streets and alleyways to enjoy its shops and restaurants.

Lakka in the north is another gem. This town curls around a spectacular bay with deep water – perfect for captains and crew who want to spend the night on Paxos before sailing on to the next island. There is always a bit of hustle and bustle going on, which is fun to watch while you enjoy a sundowner on one of the town’s many terraces.

Loggos is another fishing village. This town is famous for its fish and seafood tavernas. After dining on the waterfront, why not visit Taxidi Bar? Here, local musicians play their bouzoukis to the beats of traditional Greek music. Take a seat, get yourself a raki or two, and enjoy a great night out.

Nature

Paxos is one of the greenest islands in Greece. Its location west of the continent ensures it gets enough rain to keep the olive and pine trees of the island in pristine condition. If you happen to be here in spring, be prepared for a flower explosion!

Enjoy this beautiful landscape by hiking or cycling the island’s donkey trails. They can bring you to surprising locations, ranging from church ruins to abandoned olive presses to spectacular cliffs and rock formations. Grab a copy of the famous Bleasdale map for precise directions and excellent routes.

We did mention Antipaxos above when reviewing the island’s beaches. It’s really worth taking a taxi boat across. Whether you’re a beach bum or a hiker, this little island is pure bliss and a photographer’s dream.

Traditional Greek food

Oh, my goodness. Greek cuisine is so tasty that it inspires mouthwatering, finger-licking tasty. And not only that – it is actually super healthy. The Greeks use as many local, seasonal ingredients as possible, and use the oven a lot. Hardly anything is deep-fried, and many of the local dishes are generally low in carbs. No wonder some of the oldest people in the world live in Greece.

Some of the Greek classics you should definitely try are, of course, gyros, souvlaki, and spanakopita. Moussaka, a lasagna-style dish made with eggplant instead of pasta, is another dish that is sure to conquer your tastebuds. Kalí órexi: enjoy your meal!

Peace and privacy

As you can see, Paxos offers a bit of everything. The overlying theme, however, is peace and calm. The fact that this island has no airport undoubtedly has helped it remain low-key.

This is a perfect hideaway for the rich and famous, away from the paparazzi that set up camp in the Mediterranean in summer. But whether you’re a public figure or an average Joe, renting a villa on Paxos is a fantastic way to enjoy the tranquillity of this island.