Paros

This year we spend our summer holidays at the Cyclades again, first to the Island of Paros and then to the island Naxos. 

In approximately 3 hours we reached Paros by high speed ferry from Athens in the evening. The Port of Paros is the main traffic point of ferries in the Aegean, but surprisingly it is very quiet.

All ferries and boats doc on in the main town of Parikia, which is famous for its historic centre and the oldest, largest and most magnificent church in the Greek islands the” Pangia Ekatontapilliani”. It reminded us of impressive building of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.

Even a stroll through the streets of the medieval Kastro quarter along the promenade called  "Market Street" is pretty nice.

( Click for large image !)

We did not stay in Parikia but in the northern town Naoussa,  the most beautiful and touristy town at the island. Here we had a nice little studio with fantastic view over the little port and the sea. 
The old town with its lovely streets, pubs, bars, shops and the picturesque, romantic Venetian harbour reminded us a little bit of Mykonos. But not so bustling and hip,  more quiet and chic with a very relaxed and good atmosphere. We liked it very much to be there till  late  at night. It is really great.

Here in Paros also, we rented a scooter to explore the island.  A popular destination is Lefkes, surrounded by terraced fields and pine forests in a beautiful mountain landscape. Of course we also made our break ​​on the charming little Platia of Lefkes on the way to the biggest mountain” Profitis Illias” (776 m). At the top there is a  transmitting station from there you have a wonderful view  of the surrounding islands (see our photos in our photo gallery).

Every day we took our scooter and explore another part of the island. Like small fishing villages, mountain villages deserted coastal roads more or less busy beaches, secluded taverns and so on. It was always a great fun for us. One special highlight event you can see also in our photo gallery. It was an Orthodox baptism at the sea. A wonderful and unique experience for us.