THE DETAILS

Getting There Daily flights from Athens to Naxos take about 35 minutes with domestic airline Sky Express ( skyexpress.gr). A less expensive option is traveling by sea; trips from the Athenian port of Piraeus last between three and six hours on high-speed or regular ferries. Where to Eat Axiotissa Easily the island’s best restaurant, located 16 kilometer south of Chora (Naxos Town). The cooking is Greek but completely original, with an emphasis on organic produce and local meats: try eggplant with honey and almonds; salads topped with mizithra, a traditional whey cheese; and succulent goat and rabbit dishes. Kastraki; 30-22850/75107; fb.com/axiotissa. Avali Café With a wonderful location at the Stelida end of Agios Prokopios Beach, this breezy taverna is known for its fresh fish and friendly service. Chora; 3022850/26972; avali.gr. L’Osteria An excellent Italian restaurant and wine bar beneath the Kastro walls; be sure to book a table in the atmospheric courtyard. Chora; 30-22850/24080; osterianaxos.com. Where to Stay Naxian on the Beach There are only 10 boho-chic suites at this seaside gem on Plaka Beach, each with an indoor or outdoor Jacuzzi. The little sibling to the acclaimed Naxian Collection hotel in nearby Stelida also offers sunbeds on the sand and a lowkey beach bar. Plaka; 30-22850/24300; naxianonthebeach.com; doubles from US$520. Kavos A hillside complex above Prokopios Bay with a large swimming pool, an excellent restaurant, and accommodation options that range from open-plan studio suites to threebedroom villas. Stelida; 30-22850/23355; kavos-naxos.com; doubles from US$280.