Villa Manti

The capital of Paxos is Gaios (in the southern part of the island), a picturesque village with a natural port protected by two smaller islands: Agios Nikolas (every inch covered by pine trees) and Panagia (crowned by a picturesque old church). On the northern part of the island there is the village/port of Lakka and on the east side the very charming village/port of Loggos. The “pace” on the island is still unhurried; very relaxing with genuine friendly Greek hospitality at its best. Paxos has a permanent population of approximately 2,300 inhabitants.

Nearest supermarket: 15’ on foot (Gaios) Tavernas/restaurants/bars/cafes: In Gaios, but also 5’ on foot from the villa at Paxos Beach Hotel Bank/Exchange: in Gaios Cash point: in Gaios Phone: in the villa (local calls only), in Gaios and at Paxos Beach Hotel

Parking facility at property: Yes, for one car

Beaches: The nearest beaches are the one at Paxos Beach Hotel and another called “Donkey’s ears” (aftia tou Gaidarou) after two offshore ear-shaped rocks. The first is an organised beach with deckchairs and parasols as well as a bar and a restaurant. The second one is quieter and less shady. Both have white pebbles and the sea water is crystal clear.

Two miles or so south of Paxos, there is another island Antipaxos, even smaller and almost uninhabited. Instead of olive groves there are many small vineyards looked after by Paxos families. Antipaxos is famous for its Caribbean-like beaches with emerald-colour water. Vrika, with its fine golden sand, has two beach restaurants. Voutoumi has a more pristine look – its restaurant being separated from the beach by a cluster of trees and bushes. Excursion boats run from Paxos to Antipaxos regularly during the summer, the trip takes about 15 minutes and you can spend the whole day there.

Local interest: There are many old, beautiful Orthodox churches all over the island and a fortress on the island of Agios Nikolaos.

Once in Paxos, a trip to Erimitis (= the Hermit) is highly recommended. There is a bar/restaurant perched on the cliffs of the west coast, commanding an incredible view of the sunset. You can treat yourself to a drink/local food or more sophisticated dishes and watch the sun change colours on the horizon as it dives into the Ionian sea.

One should also go on the half-day cruise around the island. Local boats cruise around the west coast of the island with its spectacular wind-carved limestone cliffs, caverns and sculptural rock formations before visiting the Papanikolis cave, named after the Greek submarine that used it as a hiding place during World War II. You can dive off the boat into the crystal clear waters outside the Ipapanti cave, a little further down the coast.

Alternatively, you can rent a fishing boat and cruise around both islands (Paxos and Antipaxos) at your own “pace”.