Naxos inland hiking tour: ancient Kouroi and Venetian ruins

Walk marble paths between villages and stand in front of ancient statues scattered across the landscape

This guided hiking tour on Naxos covers 7.56 km through inland villages using old footpaths, with visits to two ancient Kouroi sculptures, the ruins of Apano Kastro (a Venetian citadel), and a local Kitron distillery. The hike takes 5.5 hours with roundtrip hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, snacks and equipment included; an optional traditional meal is available at the end. Children from age 12 are welcome, and moderate fitness is needed for the ascent of 479 meters.

The Experience

You start from your hotel with roundtrip transport arranged, so the morning logistics are settled before you step out. The hike itself unfolds through three whitewashed villages connected by the same footpaths locals have walked for centuries. What makes this route unusual is what you find underfoot and scattered across it: two Kouroi, massive ancient male figures carved from marble and left where they were sculpted, centuries ago. The guide explains why they're there and what they meant, turning a hillside into an open-air archaeology lesson.

The terrain moves from flat sections under plane trees and citrus groves into a steady uphill push toward Apano Kastro. That's the Venetian citadel, now ruins, perched high enough that the views open out across the Aegean and down into the villages below. The ascent climbs 479 meters total, with 395 meters of descent on the way back, so the second half of the day is easier on the legs. Snacks and water come with you; a first aid kit and other gear are handled by the guide.

At the end of the hike, you visit the local Kitron distillery to learn how they make Naxos' citrus-based liqueur and taste it. If you've booked the meal option, a traditional family-style dinner waits under a climbing grapevine. If not, the hike ends there and the driver takes you back to your hotel. The whole day runs 5.5 hours from pickup to return.

What’s included

• Roundtrip hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• English-speaking Trekking Hellas guide.
• snacks and water during the hike.
• first aid kit and hiking equipment.
• liability insurance.
• entry to the Kitron distillery with a tasting.
• traditional family-style meal (on the meal option only).
• all fees and taxes.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomeNot for heart conditions

Operated by TREKKING HELLAS

Is this one for you?Book this if you have a free morning or afternoon and want to see inland Naxos beyond the beaches—the marble paths and ancient statues are only accessible on foot, and the guide explains what you're standing in front of instead of leaving you to guess. The 5.5-hour length fits a half-day schedule, and hotel pickup means you don't navigate to a trailhead on your own.

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Top questions

What are the Kouroi of Flerio and why are they just sitting on the ground?

The Kouroi are two ancient marble statues of male youths carved in classical times and left in place at Flerio, part of the inland route. The guide explains their history and significance during the hike, so you understand what you're looking at instead of just passing by them.

How steep is the hike and what kind of fitness do I need?

The hike covers 7.56 km with an ascent of 479 meters and a descent of 395 meters. Moderate physical fitness is needed; the uphill section to Apano Kastro is the most demanding part, but the descent on the return is gentler on the legs.

Does the hike include a meal, or is that extra?

A traditional family-style meal at the end is optional and available as a separate booking choice at checkout. Without it, the hike ends at the Kitron distillery and you return to your hotel. Snacks are included either way.

What's included in the price and what do I need to bring?

The tour includes roundtrip hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, snacks, first aid kits and necessary equipment, liability insurance, and all fees and taxes. Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy hiking shoes; the guide carries the rest.

Can children do this hike?

Children are welcome from age 12 onward. They'll need moderate fitness for the ascent and descent, and the guide can adjust pace and stops to keep the group together.

What is Kitron and why visit the distillery?

Kitron is a citrus-based liqueur made locally on Naxos. The distillery visit includes a tour of how it's produced and a tasting, so you understand the drink and can buy a bottle if you like before heading back to your hotel.