3000 years of history
Naxos, the largest island in the cyclades group, is famous for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Zeus, the king of the greek gods was living in Naxos. It was the most important center of civilisation of the Cyclades in the ancient period.
Known for its incredible natural beauty, rich musical tradition and impressive rock formation and history, Naxos is the perfect place for all types of holidays.
According to Greek mythology, the young Zeus was raised in a cave on Mt. Zas ("Zas" meaning "Zeus"). Homer mentions "Dia"; literally the sacred island "of the Goddess". Károly Kerényi explains:
This name, Dia, which means 'heavenly' or 'divine', was applied to several small craggy islands in our [Aegean] sea, all of them lying close to larger islands, such as Crete or Naxos. The name "Dia" was even transferred to the island of Naxos itself, since it was more widely supposed than any other to have been the nuptial isle of Dionysus.
One legend has it that in the Heroic Age before the Trojan War, Theseus abandoned Ariadne on this island after she helped him kill the Minotaur and escape from the Labyrinth. Dionysus (god of wine, festivities, and the primal energy of life) who was the protector of the island, met Ariadne and fell in love with her. But eventually Ariadne, unable to bear her separation from Theseus, either killed herself (according to the Athenians), or ascended to heaven (as the older versions had it). The Naxos portion of the Ariadne myth is also told in the Richard Strauss opera Ariadne auf Naxos.
The giant brothers Otus and Ephialtes figure in at least two Naxos myths: in one, Artemis bought the abandonment of a siege they laid against the gods, by offering to live on Naxos as Otus's lover; in another, the brothers had actually settled Naxos.
Discover real Naxos
Our hikes are mostly on unpaved paths through wild rugged landscapes. For several hours we will hike far away from roads and towns.
Rescue services etc. have no access to the landscapes in which we are traveling. I would therefore like to point out that my guests should wear sturdy hiking shoes (at least sturdy running shoes), suitable clothing (long trousers) and, depending on the weather, rain protection, headgear (headscarf, hat, functional scarf), sun protection (at least SPF30) and carry enough water (at least 1 liter) with you.
If you do not meet these requirements, I cannot take you on the hike.
You could endanger yourself and the hiking group too!
Terms & Conditions of Participation
A. Contractual agreement is binding between us once the Online Personal Information Form has been signed and submitted. Also you confirm total understanding and acceptance of the "Terms and Conditions" below.
B. We waiver all responsibility for any personal injury, fatality, loss or damage to personal belongings.
C. We rely upon your healthy participation and trust you have travel risk insurance to include such activities.
D. There will be zero tolerance to any aggressive behaviour, alcohol or drug misuse and we reserve the right to deny participation without reimbursement.
You must declare you are medically fit and you understand that the organiser shall not bear any responsibility for any injury or loss during the tour. Written consent is requested for any minor and must be accompanied by a responsible adult. sanctions provided by the provisions of Paragraph 6 of article 22 of the Greek Law L. 1599/1986
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