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Paros

A week in. . .

Paros

When to go
While it’s grown in popularity in recent years, Paros is still a little-visited island compared to its neighbours Mykonos and Santorini. This is set to change come 2025, when the island will likely, for better or worse, become more accessible via an international airport. My advice is to visit sooner rather than later; early October is perfect- the sea is warm, crowds have dispersed, and the light is particularly dazzling.

Where to stay

Parian Boutique Hotel

Parian Boutique Hotel

Budget-friendly, 3*, location location location

For a mid-range option that provides simple but lovely rooms, plus a convenient location within walking distance of some of the island’s prettiest beaches and its most stylish town (Naoussa), Parian is a great option.  

The current rate for the most basic room option (for September 2023) is £280 p/n (breakfast included).

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Parocks

Parocks

romance, luxury, discreet location

Parocks is the only luxury hotel on this stretch of coastline, which is otherwise interspersed with tasteful villas and seaside-tavernas. The major selling-point of Parocks is this location, which is totally discreet yet within walking distance of a few of my most beloved restaurants on the island, plus only a 10-minute drive to Naoussa. Rooms are Cycladic chic, and the infinity pool, gym and spa mean you may be loath to venture far!

The current rate (for September 2023) is £460 p/n for a Comfort Sea-View room.

Parillio

Parillio

families, best of both worlds, luxury

Parillio is the original luxury boutique hotel in Paros, sitting within walking-distance of the sensationally sandy Kolymbithres beach. The interiors are fun but design-driven, the stunning pool begs you to dangle your  laze with an aperol-spritz, and Naoussa is just a 10-minute drive away. The food is also worth mentioning- breakfasts are diverse and delicious (think options ranging from buckwheat pancakes with carrot compote & walnuts, to creamy scrambled eggs on oregano infused grilled sourdough).  

The current rate (for September 2023) is £457 p/n for a standard room.

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Where to explore

Naoussa is, in my opinion, both the prettiest and most stylish town on the island, with an array of high-end boutiques and restaurants centred around a picturesque harbour; it’s buzzy but laid-back,  there’s something for everyone

If you’re visiting Paros with kids or just looking to give-back to the community, Mesovounia animal sanctuary is a haven in the hills of the island; donkeys, dogs, cats and birds aplenty- this one-woman operation is a true delight. Head to their website and or contact us directly  to organise a visit and see an authentic Cycladic sanctuary.

Lastly, a wonderful day-trip from Paros is the 15-minute ferry to Antiparos; just head to the main port of Parikia and buy a ticket onboard. I’d recommend getting there in plenty of time as space is limited and the queue can be a bit chaotic (both vehicles and walk-ons are welcome). The pretty town with a myriad of gorgeous shops and cute tavernas is a short walk from the ferry drop-off on the other end.

Where to eat

Barbarossa

luxury, special occasion, gourmet dining

This is my favourite restaurant on the island; it isn’t your typical Greek taverna, but the seafood and innovative flavours, plus modern twists on classics like Greek salad, are perfectly executed. I fantasise about both the seabass carpaccio and lobster spaghetti on a weekly basis year-round!

Blue Oyster

languorous lunches, sunset, a good vibe

This is wonderful quality food from the team behind Yemeni (another of my standouts in Naoussa); its beachside location makes for a really relaxed vibe, and the young but very efficient staff are delightful.

Halaris

Traditional taverna, family friendly, fresh fish

This is a traditional, family-owned fish restaurant in Piso Livadi (a charming seaside village). The fresh food is, expectedly, fantastic; get here early to enjoy a drink and nab a seafront table.

Travel
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A week in. . .

Paros

While it’s grown in popularity in recent years, Paros is still a little-visited island compared to its neighbours Mykonos and Santorini. This is set to change come 2025, when the island will likely, for better or worse, become more accessible via an international airport. My advice is to visit sooner rather than later; early October is perfect- the sea is warm, crowds have dispersed, and the light is particularly dazzling.
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