Just in a few hours you can discover with our off the beaten trail certified guide all the hidden gems and get to experience these parts of Naxos as a local.

The day begins from your accommodation where the van will pick you up and lead to you to our e-mountain bike station. We begin our adventure through the rural area of Paratrehos and soon enough we ride uphill Koskinas mountain. We follow the dirt trail over the green valley of Potamia that leads to agios Mamas (Theoskepasti). A Byzantine church dating from mid 10th century and considered to be the oldest church on Naxos.

After a short pause we head straight deep into the lush valley of Potamia villages. We’ll bike through their picturesque alleys and start hiking through the unique ”tropical” scenery next to the creek that leads to Koko’s tower. A fantastic venetian structure of the 17th century, with a spooky storey behind it, that’s been built within verdant surroundings.

We continue biking on the cobblestone streets of Ano (upper) Potamia and head to the uphill dirt trail that leads to Apano Kastro (upper castle). A challenging, rocky trail for approx. 1km. Continue on foot and we begin an easy scrambling to the top of the hill in order to explore the castle. The ruins remind us the reasons why this castle was considered to be the strongest castle of Naxos in the middle ages when the pirates used to raid the island! Snack and hydration break while enjoying an impressive 360° on the altitude of 420m. From the castle, one can literally see half of Naxos .

Pick up our bikes again and head up to the north to another ”must see” attraction! The imposing Jesuit palace (17th century) that is located between the settlements of Melanes and Potamia, a deserted building of unique architecture! We take the way back through the villages of Melanes and Agios Thaleleos while having the oportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of Naxos town.

Distance: 32km/19.88miles
Difficulty: moderate
Duration: 4-5h
Max alt.: 420m/1378ft