Is Apeiranthos a good place for a beach holiday?
Apeiranthos itself is a mountainous village, often called the 'marble village', and is not directly on the coast. However, it can serve as a base for exploring nearby beaches, particularly those on the eastern side of Naxos. The closest port to Apeiranthos is Moutsouna, which has a couple of its own small, sandy beaches.
How far is Apeiranthos from the nearest beaches and how do I get there?
Moutsouna, the closest seaside village and port to Apeiranthos, is about 9 to 11 kilometers away. You can reach Moutsouna from Apeiranthos by car or bus. The drive offers stunning views as the road descends from the mountains to the sea. From Moutsouna, other beaches like Psili Ammos and Panormos are further south along the coast.
What are the beaches like near Apeiranthos?
The beaches accessible from Apeiranthos, primarily on the eastern coast of Naxos, are generally quieter and less crowded than those on the west coast. Moutsouna has small, sandy coves with calm, clear waters, ideal for families. Psili Ammos, south of Moutsouna, is known for its sand dunes and tranquil atmosphere. Panormos is a secluded, sheltered cove with palm trees, offering a more wild and natural beach experience.
Can you swim at the beaches near Apeiranthos?
Yes, you can swim at the beaches near Apeiranthos. Moutsouna's beaches have fine sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters, making them suitable for families with young children. Panormos beach is a sheltered cove with calm, warm, and clear waters, also excellent for swimming.
Can I find accommodation with beach access if I want to stay near Apeiranthos but closer to the sea?
While Apeiranthos itself is inland, the nearby coastal village of Moutsouna offers some small accommodation units, including studios and rooms, close to its beaches. This allows you to be near the sea while still being a short drive from the cultural attractions of Apeiranthos.
Are the beaches near Apeiranthos organized with sunbeds and umbrellas?
The beaches on the eastern coast near Apeiranthos, like Moutsouna and Panormos, are generally less organized than the popular beaches on the west coast of Naxos. Moutsouna has some tavernas and cafes near its beaches, but Panormos is largely unorganized, offering a more natural experience with some trees for shade. You typically won't find extensive rows of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at these beaches.
What's the best way to get to the beaches from Apeiranthos if I don't have a car?
There is a public bus service that connects Apeiranthos to Moutsouna. The journey takes about 30 minutes from Apeiranthos to Moutsouna, as part of a longer route starting from Naxos Town. However, to explore beaches further south from Moutsouna, like Panormos, having your own transport like a rental car or motorbike is highly recommended due to infrequent bus services in those more remote areas.
Are there any family-friendly beaches near Apeiranthos?
Yes, the beaches at Moutsouna cove are considered family-friendly due to their fine sand and crystal-clear shallow waters. Panormos, being a sheltered cove with calm waters, can also be suitable for families, though it lacks organized facilities.
What is the vibe like at the beaches near Apeiranthos compared to the west coast of Naxos?
The beaches on the east coast, accessible from Apeiranthos, offer a more tranquil, secluded, and less touristy vibe compared to the bustling and well-organized beaches on the west coast of Naxos (like Plaka or Agios Prokopios). The eastern beaches are appreciated for their wild beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Are there places to eat and drink at the beaches near Apeiranthos?
Moutsouna has a few picturesque fish tavernas and cafes right by its small beaches. Panormos beach has a canteen providing necessities. For a wider variety of dining options, you would need to return to Apeiranthos or explore other villages.
Is it worth renting a car if I'm staying in Apeiranthos and want to visit beaches?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended if you're staying in Apeiranthos and want to explore various beaches, especially those on the eastern and southern coasts like Panormos, or even to venture to the more famous western beaches. While there's a bus to Moutsouna, a car offers much more flexibility to discover more remote spots and travel at your own pace. The roads can be narrow and winding, so careful driving is advised.
What are some hidden gem beaches I can reach from Apeiranthos?
Panormos beach is often considered a hidden gem due to its secluded location, palm trees, and tranquil atmosphere. Psili Ammos, with its sand dunes and cedar trees, also offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Exploring the coastline south of Moutsouna by car can lead you to other small, quiet coves.
What is the historical significance of Moutsouna, the port village near Apeiranthos?
Moutsouna historically served as the port for Apeiranthos, primarily for exporting emery mined from the surrounding mountains. Until the mid-20th century, emery exploitation was a major commercial activity for Apeiranthos and Moutsouna. You can still see remnants of this history, such as the old aerial tramway, cranes, and carts used for transporting emery.
Are the roads to the eastern beaches from Apeiranthos difficult to drive?
The road from Apeiranthos down to Moutsouna is asphalt but can be narrow, steep, and have tight hairpin bends. It's scenic but requires careful driving at a low speed. The coastal road south from Moutsouna towards Panormos is also an asphalt road but can be winding. Extra care is necessary when driving these routes.
Is Apeiranthos a good base for exploring both mountain villages and beaches in Naxos?
Apeiranthos is an excellent base for exploring the mountainous interior of Naxos, including other traditional villages like Filoti and Chalki, and for hiking Mount Zas. While it's not on the coast, it provides reasonable access to the quieter eastern beaches. However, if your priority is spending most of your time on the popular western beaches, staying closer to Naxos Town or the western coastal resorts might be more convenient.
