Paxos and Antipaxos are two small, idyllic islands located in the Ionian Sea, just south of Corfu. Known for their stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere, these islands are often considered hidden gems of Greece. Despite their small size, they are beloved by travelers for their laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, and authentic Greek island life.
Here’s an in-depth look at each island:
Paxos (Paxi)
- Size: Paxos is the larger of the two islands, covering around 25 square kilometers. It is still quite small and easy to explore by boat or on foot.
- Capital: Gaios is the main port and capital of Paxos, a picturesque village with Venetian-style architecture, narrow streets, and charming squares. The town is set along a beautiful natural harbor, protected by two small islets (Panagia and Agios Nikolaos), which give Gaios its unique, fjord-like feel.
1. Landscape and Beaches
- Olive Groves: Paxos is covered in lush olive groves, and the production of olive oil is central to its economy. The island is famous for its ancient olive trees and terraced landscape.
- Beaches: Paxos has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian Sea, most of them pebble or rocky with clear, turquoise waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
- Voutoumi Beach: One of Paxos’ most famous beaches, located on the west coast, with stunning azure waters and dramatic cliffs surrounding it.
- Monodendri Beach: A well-known beach with tavernas nearby and water sports facilities.
- Loggos and Lakka: Both of these villages have small, secluded beaches nearby, perfect for a peaceful swim.
2. Villages
- Gaios: As the main hub, Gaios is where you’ll find the island’s main harbor, restaurants, shops, and cafés. Its lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it the heart of the island’s social scene.
- Lakka: Located on the northern tip of Paxos, Lakka is a serene fishing village with a horseshoe-shaped bay. It’s popular with yachts and is surrounded by pine and olive trees.
- Loggos: A charming village on the east coast of Paxos, smaller and more peaceful than Gaios, ideal for a quiet retreat.
3. Attractions
- Blue Caves: The western side of Paxos is famous for its dramatic sea caves, best explored by boat. The Blue Caves are a series of caverns with dazzling blue waters, which you can swim or kayak through. They are one of the island’s most famous natural wonders.
- Ortholithos: A huge rock standing vertically out of the sea near the coast of Paxos, offering an impressive sight, especially at sunset.
- Churches and Monasteries: Paxos has a number of beautiful, small churches and monasteries that reflect its rich religious history. The most famous is the Monastery of Panagia on one of the islets in Gaios Bay.
4. Atmosphere and Tourism
- Paxos is known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Unlike larger Greek islands, Paxos does not cater to mass tourism, which allows it to retain its authentic character.
- The island is popular with yacht owners and sailing enthusiasts, who visit its quiet bays and anchor in its beautiful harbors.
- Getting around: Due to its small size, Paxos can be easily explored on foot, by bicycle, or by renting scooters or small boats. Many visitors use small boats to explore the coves and beaches that are inaccessible by road.
Antipaxos
- Size: Antipaxos is even smaller than Paxos, just about 5 square kilometers in area. It is located only 2 kilometers south of Paxos and can be reached by boat in about 15 minutes.
- Population: Antipaxos is sparsely populated, with only a handful of residents and a few vacation homes. It’s primarily a place for day trips rather than extended stays.
1. Beaches
- Voutoumi Beach: The most famous beach on Antipaxos, known for its white sand and crystal-clear, turquoise waters. It is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, offering a Caribbean-like experience.
- Vrika Beach: Another stunning beach with soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. Vrika is slightly more developed than Voutoumi, with a couple of tavernas offering fresh seafood and local dishes.
- Secluded Coves: The island is dotted with smaller, more secluded coves that are perfect for those looking for privacy and calm.
2. Vineyards and Wine
- Despite its small size, Antipaxos is famous for its vineyards. The island produces its own wine, and visitors can sample local varieties, often made from ancient grape varieties native to the island. This wine is typically rustic and strong, reflecting the traditional methods of winemaking.
- Wine Tasting: Some tavernas in Antipaxos offer visitors the chance to taste local wines, often paired with fresh seafood and simple, rustic dishes.
3. Activities
- Swimming and Snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters of Antipaxos are ideal for snorkeling, with vibrant marine life visible just off the shore. The clarity of the water makes it a popular spot for diving enthusiasts as well.
- Boating: Many visitors to Paxos take boat trips to Antipaxos for the day, often exploring both islands’ coastlines. It’s common to rent a small boat in Paxos and make the short journey to Antipaxos, stopping at secluded beaches and coves along the way.
Why Visit Paxos and Antipaxos?
- Unspoiled Beauty: Both islands remain largely untouched by mass tourism, offering visitors a chance to experience Greece’s natural beauty in a peaceful, serene environment.
- Stunning Beaches: Paxos and Antipaxos are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Ionian Sea, with clear blue waters, secluded coves, and soft sandy shores.
- Relaxation: These islands are perfect for those seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you prefer to lounge on a beach, explore hidden caves, or savor fresh seafood at a seaside taverna, Paxos and Antipaxos provide a laid-back atmosphere.
- Adventure and Exploration: The Blue Caves, secluded beaches, and clear waters make these islands ideal for those who enjoy activities like boating, swimming, and snorkeling.
How to Get There
- From Corfu: Both Paxos and Antipaxos are primarily accessed by boat from Corfu. Regular ferries connect Corfu to Paxos, and many visitors take day trips from Corfu to explore these islands. Antipaxos is usually visited as part of a boat tour from Paxos.
- Private Boats: Many yachts and sailing boats visit Paxos and Antipaxos, as these islands are popular stops on sailing routes in the Ionian Sea.
Final Thoughts
Paxos and Antipaxos offer a unique blend of unspoiled beauty, tranquility, and adventure, making them perfect destinations for those looking for a quiet escape in the Greek islands. Paxos, with its charming villages and olive groves, complements the untouched paradise of Antipaxos, known for its world-class beaches. Together, they create a serene getaway ideal for relaxation, exploration, and experiencing authentic Greek island life.