One of the most breathtaking destinations in the Ionian Sea, Paxos stands out with its crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, enchanting sea caves, and landscapes of unparalleled natural beauty. A visit to this island is an unforgettable experience, and exploring the unique sights of Paxos and Antipaxos is a must for any traveler.
Gaios: The Heart of Paxos
As your boat approaches the narrow strait that forms the harbor of Gaios, the capital of Paxos, you’re greeted by a truly idyllic scene. On one side, neoclassical houses painted in warm, earthy tones line the shore. On the other, the lush islet of Agios Nikolaos, crowned by a historic Venetian fortress, creates a picture-perfect backdrop.
Gaios is the island’s largest settlement and owes its name to Saint Gaios, a disciple of Apostle Paul, who is said to have brought Christianity to the island. The town retains its traditional Ionian architecture, with charming stone balconies and paved courtyards. At its heart lies a lively square, home to the Church of the Ascension, surrounded by cozy cafés and tavernas, offering stunning views of the peaceful harbor.
A stroll along the waterfront reveals a fascinating blend of history and culture. Notable landmarks include:
The British Governor’s Mansion,
The Syggros School, a historic educational institution,
The statue of Anemogiannis, a young Greek revolutionary who perished in an attempt to set fire to a Turkish ship in Nafpaktos.
For those keen on exploring further, the quaint backstreets (kantounia) lead to the Church of the Holy Apostles, where Saint Gaios is said to be buried. The town is also a hub for boat excursions, with sea taxis and speedboats departing regularly to the stunning beaches of Paxos and Antipaxos.
The Castle of Agios Nikolaos
One of the most significant historical landmarks of Paxos, the Castle of Agios Nikolaos, is perched on the island of the same name, overlooking Gaios Bay. Originally built in 1423 by Baron Adam II San Ippolito, the fortress was reconstructed in 1510 following a design attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, discovered in the Venetian Archives. Inside, remnants of history remain intact, including:
Two large water cisterns,
A watchtower (guardiola),
Gunpowder storage rooms,
Barracks for soldiers.
The island itself is densely forested with pine trees, adding to its mystical allure.
Panagia Islet: A Sacred Retreat
At the entrance of Gaios Harbor lies Panagia Islet, home to the historic Monastery of Panagia Vellianiton, founded in 1550 by refugees fleeing Ottoman rule. The island is also known for its lighthouse, built in 1825 on the site of an ancient beacon.
Loggos: The Quaint Fishing Village
Considered by many as the most picturesque village on Paxos, Loggos is a charming fishing harbor nestled in a lush bay on the island’s eastern coast. Dominating the village’s skyline is the grand Anemogiannis Mansion, along with the now-abandoned olive oil and soap factory. Nearby, a scenic coastal path leads to the ruins of historic windmills, offering breathtaking views of the sea.
The seafront tavernas and cafés provide the perfect setting to enjoy the serene ambiance, while the traditional bakery of Loukas, dating back to 1902, is famous for its wood-fired bread—a must-try for visitors.
Lakka: A Sailor’s Paradise
Situated at the northern tip of Paxos, Lakka is the island’s second-largest harbor. Similar to Loggos but on a grander scale, Lakka is enveloped by lush cypress and olive groves, creating a natural haven for sailing enthusiasts. The town’s vibrant waterfront is lined with shops, bars, and traditional tavernas, while the illuminated Syggros School adds a magical touch to the evening scenery.
Magazia: A Timeless Village
Nestled in the island’s heart, Magazia is a small but historically significant village, best known for Burnao’s Café, a beloved local institution operating since 1953. Across from the café stands the Church of Archangels, home to an impressive iconostasis from 1853 and frescoes dating back to 1650 and 1900. The village is also home to the Paxos Historical Archives and the island’s Philharmonic Society, Poseidon.
Paxos’ Ancient Olive Groves
Walking through Paxos’ centuries-old olive groves is like stepping into an open-air museum. The gnarled trunks of ancient olive trees, many of which date back hundreds of years, provide cool shade, while dry stone walls, crafted with meticulous precision, weave through the landscape. The Venetians, who ruled Paxos from 1386, introduced large-scale olive cultivation, with the Lianolia variety becoming the most widespread.
Water Cisterns: Ingenious Engineering
Due to Paxos’ limestone terrain, natural water retention is minimal. However, the locals solved this issue by constructing stone-built cisterns throughout the island. One of the most remarkable examples is the British-built cistern (1825-1846) behind the Church of the Holy Apostles in Gaios, now recognized as a preserved historical monument.
The Rugged Western Coastline
The wild western coast of Paxos is only accessible by boat, with tours departing from Gaios or Loggos. This dramatic landscape features towering cliffs, hidden sea caves, and pristine beaches. Highlights include:
Ypapanti Cave, where Greek submarine Papnikolis found refuge during World War II,
Katergo Islet, a striking rock formation at the entrance of the cave,
Achai Bay, offering secluded beaches and stunning caves,
Ortholithos, a massive standing rock formation that rises from the sea like a monolithic sculpture.
Among the island’s most breathtaking beaches, Galazio boasts dazzling blue waters and is flanked by sheer cliffs, making it accessible only by boat. Meanwhile, the three Blue Caves offer fantastic opportunities for exploration.
One of the most striking natural wonders is Kamara, a huge rock arch sculpted by the wind and waves. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit Erimitis Beach, formed by a landslide in 2008—a stunning spot to witness an awe-inspiring sunset.
Antipaxos: The Jewel of the Ionian
A mere 3-square-kilometer paradise, Antipaxos lies just south of Paxos and is renowned for its two spectacular beaches—Vrika and Voutoumi. With turquoise waters, fine white sand, and lush greenery, the island exudes an exotic charm.
A narrow road runs through Antipaxos, from Agraphidia Port to the southern lighthouse and the imposing limestone cliffs in the north. Hidden pebble beaches, like Sarakiniko and Rodovani, offer a peaceful escape from the crowds. The island is also home to vineyards, producing the famous Antipaxos “black” wine, a tradition still maintained by local families.
Whether you’re drawn by history, natural beauty, or tranquility, Paxos and Antipaxos promise an unforgettable experience—one visit is never enough!
