SIGHTS
Enchanting landscapes, natural beauty and historic sites. That’s Paros!
Paros Environmental and Cultural Park
Paros Environmental and Cultural Park is in the north of the island and offers a variety of activities, areas of stunning natural beauty and a look back at the past and the history of the island.
It is a park for both young and old, and extends over an 800-acre peninsula. It is run and maintained entirely by volunteers.
Nature lovers can enjoy hiking routes with marked trails which give you the opportunity to explore hidden coves and caves. You can also see the landmark ” Koulianos Bridge” built by Yiannis Koulianos.
The Museum in the Park gives everyone the chance to discover the history of the island, and visitors can also admire the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Detis, an imposing building built in the Cycladic architectural style.
You can also enjoy swimming at the 3 beaches in the peninsula (Katholika, Perikopetra, Turkou Ammos) or try your hand at water sports in the clear waters of the Aegean.
Lastly, the park plays host to the ‘Festival in the Park‘ each year, featuring performances by renowned artists from Greece and beyond. It also has facilities for exhibitions, a cinema and a cafe-restaurant.
The Castle of Parikia (Frankokastelo)
The Castle of Parikia, also known as Fragokastelo, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paros. Built by the Venetian Duke of Naxos, Marco Sanudo in the 13th century, the castle is in the centre of the island’s main town, on the Paros acropolis.
The castle is built on the top of a high hill, on the ruins of five ancient temples. Of these ancient temples, only a part of the Temple of Athena dating from the 6th century has survived to this day. The raw materials used to construct the castle include various sections of ancient buildings and temples.
While you are exploring the castle, you will also see several small churches, including Agios Markos, Agia Anna, and Agios Stylianos, as well as the imposing Church of Agios Konstantinos.
Extra tip: Don’t forget to take a camera with you, since the sea view out over Parikia Bay is truly spectacular.
Panagia Ekatontapyliani
Panagia Ekatontapyliani Church (or Katapolianis Church) in Parikia, is one of the most ancient and well-preserved Christian churches in Greece. It is located a short distance from the port and is one of the most important sites in the area.
The church’s name comes from the term “katapola” (after the city), as it probably marks the spot where the ancient city of Paros was located. I t is now officially referred to as the Temple of Ekatontapiliani (100 doors in Greek). This comes from the legend that states: “Katapoliani has ninety-nine doors that can be seen. The 100th is closed and cannot be seen. It will be seen and opened when the Greeks take the City (Constantinople)…”
Finally, there are two monuments of great importance in the sanctuary of the church: the ciborium (marble covering over the alter supported by columns) and the Synthronon (a semicircular tiered structure at the back of the altar).
The Archaeological Museum of Paros
The Archaeological Museum of Paros was built in 1960 and is in Parikia. It attracts thousands of visitors every year as it houses some of the most important archaeological finds in Greece.
Inside the museum visitors can see exhibits of ceramics and marble sculpture, while outside the museum there are statues, architectural details from buildings, urns and an impressive Roman mosaic floor. All the exhibits are shown chronologically, from Neolithic times to the Roman Era.
The archaeological museum includes two halls and an atrium, and all the finds came from excavations carried out in Paros and Antiparos.
The Valley of the Butterflies
The Valley of the Butterflies is about 5 km from our Blue Diamonds Villas,in the Psychopiana area near the monastery of Agios Arsenios. Anyone who visits this wonderful spot will feel as if they have walked into a fairy tale.
It is a densely vegetated habitat with a small spring, and the valley plays a huge role in the life cycle of the Tiger Moth.
Particularly if you visit between May and September, you will be able to see thousands of yellow-black butterflies as you stroll among the cypresses, oleanders, plane trees, carob trees and other trees.
This is a truly magical picture, with a landscape that no nature lover should miss. After your walk, you can have a rest at the refreshment stand by the entrance to the area.
Note: Visitors should avoid making sudden movements or noise during their visit so as not to disturb the tranquillity that these beautiful creatures need.
Monastery of Christ in the Forest (Agios Arsenios Monastery)
The Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ (“Christ in the Forest”), also known as the Holy Monastery of Agios Arsenios, was built in the 17th century. It is 6 km from the Blue Diamonds Villas and is one of the most famous religious destinations in Paros, and also all the Cyclades.
The church is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, and the western wing is dominated by the monastery of Agios Arsenios where relics of the saint are also kept.
Today the church is a women’s convent and holds two saint’s days celebrations, one on January 31 and the other on August 18. Many visitors make a beeline to the sanctuary, both because of its excellent architecture (large basilica with a dome, double bell tower, 3 arched openings at the entrance), and because of its religious importance.
BEACHES
Punta
Pounta Beach (on the west side of Paros) is 2.5 km from Blue Diamonds Villas. Everyone who visits the beach is amazed by its fine, golden sand and clear blue waters.
It is a great place for people who love water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.There are also windsurfing and kitesurfing schools in the area and competitions are also held here.
The beach is also suitable for families as it has an organized beach bar. Another attraction is the beautiful view of Antiparos which makes it one of the prettiest and most unique beaches in Paros.
Monastiri
Near the Environmental Park, on the north side of Paros, you will find one of the island’s most famous beaches – Monastiri Beach.
It got this name thanks to the Holy Monastery of Agios Ioannis Detis which stands proudly above it. It is a busy beach, with an organized beach bar and sun lounge rental. In addition, it also has a water sports center for active guests.
The most important thing about this beach is that it is sheltered from the winds and has shallow, crystal clear waters and fine golden sand, making it ideal for both young and old.
Farangas
Farangas beach is on the south side of the island, near Aliki, and is one of the most famous beaches in Paros.
This beautiful, golden sandy beach is in a tiny cove with clear, clean waters making it suitable for all ages.
It has an organized beach bar, umbrellas and a water sports center. It combines various natural habitats as there is a dense cluster of trees behind the beach and the bay is surrounded by small rocks.
Krios
Krios beach in Parikia Bay, is a busy beach which is suitable for all ages.
It is sheltered from the wind and has transparent, blue waters which remain cool even on the hottest days of summer. The sea is quite shallow, with a stone jetty which is and idea spot for the young and the old to enjoy playing in the sea.
The white-gold sand, combined with the peace and tranquillity that characterizes this beach, make Krios a “paradise” that you should definitely not miss.
There is also a beach bar with sunbeds and umbrellas. Access is via a road around the bay or by a traditional fishing boat, specially designed to take visitors to the beach.
Marcello
Marcello Beach is the natural continuation of Krios Beach and is in the westernmost part of Parikia Bay. From the beach, bathers have a stunning view of the entire bay.
The beach has something for everyone since one half has sun loungers and umbrellas for rent and also has a beach bar, while the other half does not have any facilities so you can relax and enjoy the freedom and the natural beauty.
The clear blue transparent waters are ideal for swimming and playing. It is also very near to a taverna where you can enjoy seafood when you have finished swimming in the Aegean.
Agios Fokas
At the end of Parikia Bay you will find Agios Fokas Cape, a captivating place which enchants all its visitors.
With its clear turquoise green waters, the small sandy beach at Agios Fokas is an impressive site. Not only does it have a view of the island’s port, but the picturesque, Cycladic-style chapel of Agios Sostis and Analipsi makes a lovely addition to the beach’s natural beauty. This is a free beach without any tourist facilities so be sure to take everything you need with you when you visit it.
The beach really comes into its own at sunset when the colours give it a magical atmosphere. If you decide to visit at sunset you will be treated to a unique symphony of colours.
Agia Irini
Just 3 km from the Blue Diamonds Villas,Agia Irini beach is one of Poros’ natural gems.
Access to the beach is by car, driving along a small dirt road. As soon as you arrive you will be enchanted by this exotic place with its large palm trees and golden sand meeting the turquoise sea in this beautiful small cove.
The beach is divided into two parts by small rocks and palm trees, giving you the chance to choose between the part of the beach with facilities and a refreshment bar and sun loungers, or the free part which is shaded by trees until midday.
As this very small beach is one of the most famous in Paros, it is a good idea to get there early.
Aliki
The village of Aliki is about 5 km from our villas.Aliki beach which is in the same area is one of the most popular beaches in Paros.
With its calm waters and golden sand, Aliki beach is the ideal choice for families with small children, especially as it is sheltered from the wind.
There are tavernas and restaurants very close by where you can enjoy seafood and fish, and after your meal you can enjoy a stroll round the village of Aliki and do some shopping in the local shops or visit the Museum of Cycladic Folklore.
Piso Aliki
If you are in Aliki, don’t miss out on the second, smaller beach to the south of the village, Piso Aliki.
This is a small, exceptionally beautiful sheltered beach that combines golden sand and white pebbles with crystal clear waters. It does not have any facilities other than showers and changing rooms, but tamarisk trees that surround it give plenty of shade for bathers.
An ideal choice for both adults and children as it is usually fairly quiet and is just a short distance from the shops and restaurants.
Chrysi Akti
Chrysi Akti beach is towards the south-eastern part of our island and is the largest beach on Paros. It has also been awarded a Blue Flag by the European Union, and if you are lucky enough to visit this beautiful beach you will understand why!
The beach’s fine golden sands and deep blue shallow waters are a treat for everyone who visits. Whether you want to spend a calm relaxing day at the beach or enjoy a range of water sports, this place is the ideal choice for you.
Along the beach you will find several beach bars with sun lounges and umbrellas, as well as areas where are you free just to sit on a towel. There are Water Sport schools offering courses such as windsurfing for both beginners and advanced surfers.
And of course, after you have been swimming you have countless food and drink options in the area’s tavernas, restaurants and shops. Access by car is easy, and you can also get there by bus. Definitely worth a visit.
Dryos
If you are looking for tranquillity away from the bustling beaches of Paros, Dryos beach on the southeast side of the island is a good option.
With white sand, fine pebbles and deep blue sea, this beach is characterized by the tranquillity and majesty of nature. It is also “bathed” in rich vegetation and the running waters of the Dryos area, and visitors to this beautiful spot will enjoy a uniquely peaceful beach experience.
There are no sun loungers or umbrellas, but you can enjoy the shade from the trees. There are also options for delicious food in the taverna right next to the sea.
Santa Maria
Santa Maria beach, in the north-eastern part of Paros, is the first choice for young people since it is one of the most cosmopolitan spots on the island.
Stretching along a long, sandy coast, visitors can choose one of the beach bars for coffee, food or drinks, and also for entertainment that keeps on going into the evening.
The sea is shallow and the waters are quite warm. It is also good for water sports if you are looking for adrenaline and adventure in the waters of the Aegean Sea.
A few kilometres further north of Santa Maria, you will find Mikri Santa Maria beach which is recommended for families with small children.
There are plenty of restaurants in the surrounding area where you can enjoy a meal, but don’t forget to take a stroll through the picturesque lanes and shops of Naoussa which is about 15 minutes by car from both beaches.
Kalogeros
Kalogeros beach on the eastern side of Paros is one of the most special and remarkable free beaches on the island.
It has a wild natural beauty which is bound to impress visitors. Kalogeros is narrow beach, with fine sand and crystal clear blue waters. According to the tradition, the name (which means monk in Greek) came from a monk who jumped off the rocks at the beach and ended his life there.
Look under the rocks along the coast, and you will find a natural spa in the form of the clay hidden there. This clay also gives you lots of opportunities to enjoy playing and having fun with your children.
One word of warning. Passing boats can create big waves which can come high enough up the beach to wash away your belongings if you don’t place them safely out of the way.
Access by car is easy, and the KTEL bus from Paros will leave you about 2 km from here. It might seem like a long walk, but every minute of the walk is rewarded with stunning scenery.
Kolymbithres
On the north side of Paros, close to Naoussa, Kolymbithres beach is a real miracle of nature.
The landscape is captivating from a geological point of view, as the granite-coloured rocks have been altered by the salt and have formed small pools, so you feel as if you are actually swimming in a swimming pool!
It is essentially a natural complex of beaches, with something for everyone. The clear blue waters, the golden sand and the tranquillity of nature are a treat for all its visitors. It is well worthwhile taking a trip here!
Access is easy by car, and there are scheduled routes with the island’s KTEL buses that can take you here. For those who are looking for something a bit different, it is also possible to come here from Naoussa by boat.
