Paros, one of Greece's well-kept secrets, invites travelers to explore as the locals do in 2024. To help visitors plan a fully-immersive island experience, MINOIS Hotel Manager Georgia Zavalieri, shares her top five tips:
Visit hidden gems: Paros is full of beautiful villages with unique cultural experiences catering to different interests. The secluded Lageri Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, is where locals go for a relaxing beach day. For a deeper connection to the island’s history, Zavalieri recommends the serene village of Kostos. If travelers seek unique architecture, Marpissa is the place to see preserved history. Among its treasures, the Church of Agios Antonios boasts stunning frescoes, providing insight into the island's religious art.
Enjoy cultural experiences: As a Hotel Manager, Zavalieri curates Paros experiences to immerse visitors in the island's culture. Her top recommendations include a visit to an artisanal pottery studio in Lefkes, Kostos or Drios for a hands-on pottery experience, where visitors can learn about traditional techniques while creating their own piece of art, and guided tours at family-run vineyards, offering insights into local grape varieties and winemaking traditions.
Taste the local cuisine: When it comes to food, travelers can’t leave Paros without savoring "Gouna," a traditional dish that traces its roots back to the local's need to preserve fresh fish during long sea voyages. Fish are sun-dried or sun-baked for hours under the scorching sun, then grilled over charcoal, creating a delicious appetizer. Another culinary gem Zavalieri recommends is "Marathopita," a savory pie that highlights the region's signature ingredient, fennel. Layers of thin pastry are filled with fennel fronds, onions, cheese, and herbs, offering a delightful blend of earthy and herbal flavors—a must-try dish on the island.
Attend traditional celebrations: Zavalieri’s top events to attend on Paros include the "Agios Georgios" horse race in Lefkes that takes place each April to honor Saint George; the "Klidonas" festival in Prodromos that celebrates the ancient tradition of writing wishes on paper and burning them for good luck each June; the "Panigiri" celebrations in Kostos that come to life with music, dancing, and feasts each summer; and "Routes in Marpissa," providing an immersive cultural experience emphasizing local architecture, folklore, arts, and music.
Relax by the sea: To enjoy mesmerizing sunsets and relax on the water, MINOIS ranks as Zavalieri's ultimate pick. Nestled amidst the captivating allure of the Aegean Sea, the property presents travelers with a tranquil haven, inviting them to unwind at the Aura Spa for a Mediterranean-inspired treatment and with a drink at the seaside restaurant Olvo by the Michelin-starred chef Alexander Tsiotinis. Guests can enjoy refreshing cocktails and unique bites from the Josper oven, all with the peaceful sounds of the sea in the background.
