This highest village in Naxos, at an altitude of 700 meters, is one of the most beautiful but underrated villages of Naxos. It offers timeless appeal and a feel of authentic Naxos with its picturesque landscape, and its rustic and charming vibrant village culture. This village is blissfully unspoiled. When talking about flowers, Komiaki village in Naxos certainly comes to mind. I would definitely call it the “Garden Muse” of Naxos and it is a must visit in my opinion. Located in the northern part of Naxos, just before Apollonas, 34 km from the capital Chora (Naxos Town), is surrounded with both natural and cultivated greenery. With an estimated population of 450 inhabitants, the village is located on the ridge of Mt. Koronos, overlooking the Sea of Icarus (named from the myth of Icarus and Daedalus and their wax wings).
My visit to Komiaki was about 3 hours and it left a lasting impression. I've traveled to many islands and visited many villages but the minute I stepped onto this pretty village I was in love! Everywhere I looked, flowers are in bloom and full of life and color!
I headed uphill through the narrow cobblestone streets and old stone houses, to browse the whimsical houses and engage with the locals.
Wandering through the village you can certainly see the role that flowers play in the lives of those that live here. The steep cobblestone streets that lead you uphill in the village are filled with a riot of color – flowers spill their colorful blooms from the walls, verandas, balconies, streets and houses that are etched out in a terraced manner. Here you truly connect with nature with such an abundance of colors found nowhere else in the island. This village is so colorful, that definitely is a sight every photographer should see. It's as if someone had spilled paint instead of planting flowers, these flower streets seem like a color palette. Photo opportunities are endless here.
The village oozes character and provides a tranquil place to enjoy the color, scents, sounds and textures of the plants. Wandering the colorful flower -filled streets, I almost felt like Alice climbing the rainbow - and no wonder. As I walked along the stone paths and interconnecting stairways I came across to so many flowers that I believe if you gather all the flower pots of the rest of Naxos's villages will be less than the ones found here!!!
After all, Komiaki is a little pot of gold just waiting to be discovered.
Just when you think you've seen the best display you turn a corner and more color bursts into view. The pride with which the village's residents care and respect for their living environment, the way they maintain social cohesion, the locals and visitor well-being, plants and greenery in all public spaces, and maintaining bio-diversity will leave you thrilled.
Once in Naxos, if you’re looking to experience the scenery of a bygone time, Komiaki is one of those places that one has to see and I highly recommend it. Get your camera ready. Reaching this Naxian beauty requires extra effort, yet the rewards are dazzling. Your eyes will thank you. A scenic narrow mountain road, an exhilarating zip line ride leading to the village, offers a splendid view of the amazingly grapevine fields and old bridges with numerous age-long plane and oak trees will connect you with nature. The region has dense vegetation and running waters. Here the feel of old traditions and local culture are apparent and thriving.
Welcome to the good life!
Why Go to Komiaki?
Life has a different pace in the mountains of Naxos. Visiting Komiaki to immerse yourself in living local culture and tradition.
What to See and Do in Komiaki:
Follow the signs. Leave you car at the end of the road and continue for about 10 minutes in foot. It is worth to stop at the Byzantine church of Agios Georgios, the Dateless Vaulted Mycenae Tomb of the 15th century B.C. In the main church an ecclesiastical museum is in operation
Wander the streets and browse the houses, admire the color explosion all around you, and visit one local cafe at least.
Visit the Frankish fort in the center of the village, the post-Byzantine Church of Theoskepasti, the watermill, the olive mill and the traditional wine press.
Enjoy the beautiful natural and historical landscape by hiking old tailored footpaths and discover forgotten ones. Amazing hiking is the path Komiaki to Myrsini
Best time to visit Komiaki: April to November
Useful websites:
Visit the unspoiled Naxos and reach the true spirit of the island by booking @ www.elaiolithos.com a great base for adventure
It's worth the visit of this unbelievably charming village. Reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in centuries of history and learn intriguing local customs in this beautiful village in the world, all while taking in authentic rustic, romantic small village vibes first hand.
Article written by Helen Marakis
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www.elaiolithos.com
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