Paxos Island Lakka-Gaios, Greece
2
Cruises availables
At departure or passage at this port
Frequently Asked Questions
At Gaios, the main town, after threading between two islets that guard the channel entrance. The water there is so still it looks painted, and the main square opens straight onto the quay. Some itineraries land passengers at Lakka on the northern tip instead.
Yes, entirely. Gaios would fit into a handful of streets: the shaded square, the Venetian houses with faded shutters, the wrought-iron balconies and the shops take two or three unhurried hours.
Gaios and its square in the morning, then take your pick: the round bay of Lakka, half an hour by road across the island, a boat trip along the west coast cliffs, or the round trip to Antipaxos for a swim.
A tiny island covered in vineyards, one nautical mile south of Gaios, whose beaches at Vrika and Voutoumi rank among the finest in the Ionian Sea. Shuttles run across in a few minutes; the round trip makes a perfect afternoon.
Limestone cliffs plunging into deep blue water, pierced by sea caves where the light plays like an aquarium. Boat trips run along them when the weather allows; on windy days you watch from the ridge paths instead.
Because the Venetians encouraged planting them centuries ago. The island remains blanketed: enormous gnarled trees, some several hundred years old, their silver canopies covering the hills.
Olive oil, which enjoys an enviable reputation across Greece, along with honey and handmade soaps sold in the small shops of Gaios.
A hamlet wrapped around an almost circular bay on the northern tip, closed off by two headlands covered in olives and cypresses. Sailing boats anchor there on pale turquoise water, and a few taverns line the lanes.
No, it is the most discreet of the Ionian islands. Two or three hours are enough to see the main town, and that is entirely the point: Paxos is not meant to be visited at speed.
The euro and Greek, with English understood in the cafés and shops of Gaios. Bring cash: the island is small and not every small place takes cards.
