My Big Fat Greek Adventure Part 3: Our Naxian Experience

Last week, I published part 2 of our adventure to Greece: Santorini.  If you missed it, you can read about it here.

The 3^rd stop of our Greek adventure, as we journeyed from the iconic blue-domed buildings of Santorini to the hidden culinary haven of Naxos. Naxos isn’t just any island – it’s the undisputed “foodie island” of Greece.

Setting Sail: The Ferry from Santorini to Naxos

Our adventure began with a serene ferry ride from Santorini to Naxos. I highly recommend the high-speed Sea Jets ferry, sitting in the premium section. It is a bit like first class on a domestic U.S. flight, and on this ferry, we were served Mastic, a liquor made from the resin from the mastic tree.  

The gentle lapping of the azure Aegean Sea and panoramic views provided a soothing backdrop as we made our way to our next destination. As the ferry approached Naxos, the island’s lush greenery, towering mountains, and golden beaches came into clear view, gave us a glimpse of the adventure awaiting us.

Settling in at our Beachside Digs in Plaka Beach

Our home for the next 3 nights, Ammothines, was a relaxing respite from the crazy Santorini crowds.  The resort was right across the road from the beach, and we soon discovered that looking right, there is a relaxing beach club with cabanas, and looking left, a nude beach.  Be careful in which direction you gaze!

Mastering Greek Cuisine: The Naxian Cooking Class

Once on the island, we delved straight into its heart – its cuisine. Our group attended a Naxian cooking class led by a renowned local chef, Juliana (affectionately nicknamed, Yaya) where we learned to prepare traditional Greek recipes. Anthony Bourdain was charmed by her when he enjoyed this experience for an episode in his series ‘Parts Unknown’. In this immersive class, we got hands-on with traditional recipes passed down through generations. From stuffing vegetables with rice to crafting the perfect roasted lamb, every dish was a revelation. The highlight? Enjoying our creations al fresco, surrounded by ancient Naxian olive trees, some over a thousand years old!

Discovering Local Products: From Shepherds to World-Class Cheeses

But Naxos isn’t just about cooking; it’s about discovering, experiencing, and tasting. Our “Discovering Local Products” tour took us deep into the island’s rustic charm. We began by visiting a local shepherd, who welcomed us with a warm smile and shared his age-old cheese-making techniques (and his home-made wine). Sampling his world-class Naxian cheeses – rich, creamy, and with hints of the local flora – was a gastronomic treat. 

Exploring Eggares Village and the Olive Oil Museum

Next stop: Eggares Village. This quaint settlement offered a glimpse into Naxian life untouched by time. Here, we visited the Olive Oil Museum, where we tasted the famous “liquid gold” produced from olive trees that have stood for thousands of years. Each drop was a burst of history and flavor, encapsulating the essence of Naxos in every taste. Walking through the museum, surrounded by ancient pressing equipment, gave us a profound appreciation for the island’s rich heritage.

The Citron Tasting in Chalki Village

Our culinary expedition continued to the village of Chalki. The famous Citron of Naxos, a distinctive liqueur made from citron leaves, awaited us here. Distilled since 1896, the process combines tradition with impeccable craftsmanship. Tasting the Citron was like sipping a piece of Naxian history – sweet, aromatic, and utterly unique. The village itself, with its narrow alleyways and charming storefronts, was a delight to explore.

Wandering Through Tradition: Apiranthos

Finally, we wandered through the alleys of Apiranthos, a mountain village that has been voted the most traditional in Europe. Every corner of Apiranthos felt like stepping back in time. Marble-paved streets, stone houses, and vibrant communal spaces painted a picture of timeless Greek tradition. We even met the town’s famous community donkey, Andrew, and had one of the best meals ever in Greece here!

Our journey from Santorini to Naxos was more than a mere travel experience; it was a deep dive into the richness of Greek culture, food, and history. Naxos, with its delectable culinary offerings, scenic beauty, and warm-hearted people, left an indelible mark on our hearts. Whether it’s cooking classes, cheese tastings, or wandering through historic villages, every moment on this island is designed to be savored.

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