As I lounge on my patio, the Aegean Sea beckons with its shimmering crystal-clear water and picture-perfect horizon. The breeze whispers its way inland, delicately brushing against my skin. While the sun takes its last encore of the day, I bask in this newly found paradise. Yes, I’m talking about Paros, a true gem in the Cyclades that boasts serenity and simplicity at every turn.
My own sliver of paradise
Nestled amongst the dazzling blue and white homes of Naoussa sits Despina’s Mare, an absolutely charming guest house run by perhaps the kindest woman on the island. The namesake welcomes guests to her home as if we are family, sharing local secrets and recipes through a top-tier breakfast spread each day at the break of dawn. This place certainly lives up to its 5-star rating, and I couldn’t imagine a better home base for my stay on this island.
A culinary adventure, in more ways than one
Paros’ food and beverage scene is a tantalizing mix of fresh seafood, traditional fare, and modern cocktails.
Comeback Paros is just a cobblestone walk away from Despina’s Mare and scores a 5/5 on vibes alone. This seaside cafe is the perfect spot to spoil yourself in the morning with a fresh açaí bowl and Aperol spritz.
Just a few steps away sits Taverna Glafkos, a bustling dinner spot that specializes in fresh seafood. I’d highly recommend turning up here to dine on “American time” to avoid a long wait. Oh…and remember that Europeans actually know how to debone a fish themselves. Trust me, we learned this the hard way back in Bruges.
Restaurant AROMAS also impressed with its traditional dishes, although the fried shrimp came with a few too many heads and tails for our liking. We Americans may be just a tad fussy when it comes to our seafood. This ordering faux pas was quickly forgotten, though, when we took the first bite of the most incredible orange cake. Imagine delicious, spongey cake drenched in the most perfect orange syrupy goodness. Pure heaven on a plate!
If you’re looking to grab a nightcap in Naoussa, check out Kosmos Cocktail Bar. The unassuming entrance nestled along a cobbled side street is nearly missable as travelers pass into the more bustling parts of town. Don’t make that mistake. Step inside, instead, to be greeted by friendly bartenders and crafty cocktails that incorporate local flavors.
Gialos Paros is beautifully situated to overlook the water in Piso Livadi. Unfortunately, we had the best of both worlds at this establishment. Goat cheese and pear salad with homemade balsamic glaze? Yes, please. I could eat that every day for the rest of my life. Undercooked, mushy shrimp mixed with linguine? Not so much. These things happen, but hey, I’d probably return just for a glass of wine and the ambiance alone.
Local Gems
Paros may not be household name like Santorini…which is all the more reason to add this island to your travel list! While the island is certainly growing in popularity, you can still find many small villages that feel relatively untouched by the hands of tourism.
For the photo seeker…
Lefkes village is a must. Wander through the labyrinthine streets, stumble into charming tavernas, and soak up the Aegean breeze. There’s a picturesque patio around almost every corner, and you’ll feel like you stepped right into Villa Donna.
For the devout cat lover…
Marpissa Village is the place for you. This village is comprised of narrow, winding alleyways that are the perfect hiding place for our feline friends. Make sure to pack some extra Euros in your suitcase – you’ll want to leave a donation to Paros Cats. Look out for a donation jar outside the famous “pink door” photo spot!
For the foodie…
The cobbled alleys of Naoussa are calling your name. Scents of delicious food waft through the air, tempting you at every angle. Trust me, the hardest decision won’t be where to start, but rather when to stop. Thank goodness for meze!
For the beachgoer…
Paros is known for its beautiful beaches. Monastiri and Kolymbithres (pictured) look straight out of a movie. If you’re looking for the perfect intersection between fun and relaxation, check out Faragas Beach Club . We visited in shoulder season so the Aegean sea wasn’t exactly warm, but we braved it nonetheless!
Ferry Fail and Golden Glitch
As with all good adventures, there were some not so glamorous…or shall we say “golden” moments.
Despite being one of the most consistent recommendations, Golden Beach really did not live up to its name. Maybe the sun forgot to shine on the shimmering sand that day, or maybe we just had a navigational faux pas. All I know is that my only memories of golden beach include a dilapidated shack, a pile of abandoned bicycles, and the worst excuse for a road I’ve ever seen. I’m sure this beach is lovely if you actually make it there, but unfortunately, I’ll have to rely on Google photos for now.
Our ferry journey also wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. Let’s just say a sputtering and broken down car added a certain layer of “adventure” (read: stress) on the way to the pier. The mobs of people subsequently sprinting onto the boat and throwing luggage into massive piles probably didn’t help, either. I’d recommend bringing valuables to the upper deck for some peace of mind. And yes, “valuables” does mean lots and lots of dramamine.
The Verdict?
Despite a few hiccups, Paros feels like a daydream that will always stay with me. I could wander through the narrow village streets forever, living off of quaint tavernas and local hospitality. Oh, and the ocean views aren’t so bad either! So, pack your bags, embrace the occasional bump in the cobblestone road, and prepare to fall in love with Paros.