(Piraeus, 103 nautical miles.) The largest and most fertile island in the Cyclades islands, Naxos lies almost in the center of the Aegean. The capital and main port, Naxos Town (also known as Hora) is crowned by the ruins of a Venetian castle. A little way out of town, the Pirgos Bellonia (Bellonian Tower) was built under Venetian rule (note the Lion of St Mark emblem) as a refuge from pirates. The island is particularly noted for its numerous sand beaches, and just south of Naxos Town lie the bathing areas of Agia Anna, Agios Georgios and Agios Prokopios. The island’s second town and port, Apolonas, also has an excellent beach. The inland village of Halki has a medieval fortress and several Byzantine churches.
Through summer, there are daily flights from Naxos to Athens.