Nord & Est (Moutsouna, Koronos & Engares)

Where to stay in North & East Moutsouna Koronos Engares : complete guide

In the north and east of Naxos, the villages of Moutsouna, Koronos and Engares compose a wild and authentic tableau. Steep mountains covered in olive trees and white marble dominate an intensely blue sea. Isolated pebble coves open onto the horizon, while winding roads reveal grandiose panoramas. Traditional hamlets with stone houses preserve a slow and sincere rhythm. At dusk, golden light caresses the cliffs and vineyards, creating a magical and timeless atmosphere off the beaten track.

Safety score: 9/10midHikersCouples seeking calmPhotography enthusiastsLovers of authentic nature

Pros

  • Wild and preserved landscapes
  • Isolated calm beaches
  • Authentic picturesque villages
  • Varied little-frequented hikes
  • Traditional local cuisine

Cons

  • Winding narrow roads
  • Few public transport options
  • Limited accommodation choices

The 1 best hotels in Nord & Est (Moutsouna, Koronos & Engares)

Kana Hotel - Vue d'ensemble
1

Kana Hotel

4-star hotel
9.925 reviews
Top pick

Kana Hotel is situated in the North and East area of Naxos near Moutsouna. This four-star hotel offers a swimming pool and direct beach access. Airport shuttle and room service complete the offer. The rating of 9.9 out of 10 attests to the quality.

1 piscineEn bord de plageConnexion Wi-Fi gratuiteNavette aéroportService d'étageWi-Fi disponible partout
From ~558EUR / night
Book on Booking

Complete guide

Ambiance & landscapes

The north and east of Naxos offer contrasting landscapes between abrupt mountains and wild coasts. Koronos nestled in the hills presents cultivated terraces and sweeping views over the Aegean Sea. Moutsouna stretches along a bay bordered by limestone cliffs and pebble beaches. Engares reveals verdant valleys planted with olive and fig trees. Hiking trails cross pine forests and abandoned marble quarries. The changing sunlight highlights the steep reliefs and turquoise waters. This region retains a preserved and authentic atmosphere where nature still largely dominates.

Things to see and do

Discover the unfinished Kouros of Apollonas statue, ten metres high, carved from rock. Explore the beaches of Moutsouna and Psili Ammos for peaceful swims. Visit the traditional village of Koronos and its Byzantine church. Hike to the Vigla tower for exceptional panoramas. Taste local wines in the cellars of Engares. Observe marble quarries and mining remains along the coastal paths. These activities allow discovery of the area's historical and natural richness while enjoying moments of absolute calm.

Where to eat and drink

Local tavernas offer authentic dishes such as kid roasted with wild herbs, grilled octopus and pine nut salad. Try homemade moussaka accompanied by Naxos wine produced near Koronos. Fresh cheeses and fig tart make typical sweet treats. In Moutsouna, seafront restaurants serve fish caught that morning. Cafés in Engares offer strong Greek coffee and honey pastries. These addresses highlight local produce in a friendly family atmosphere.

Transport & access

The North & East area is reached mainly by car from Chora, the capital of Naxos. The paved road crosses villages and mountain passes before arriving at Koronos then Moutsouna. Regular buses serve these localities several times a day in season. Scooter or car hire remains recommended to explore small roads and isolated beaches. Ferries mainly dock at Chora, from where an additional hour's journey is needed. Local taxis allow occasional transfers to more remote villages.

Who is it for?

This region suits hikers seeking little-frequented trails and spectacular views perfectly. Couples seeking tranquillity appreciate the isolated coves and authentic villages. Photography enthusiasts find varied landscapes to capture at any hour. Travellers seeking cultural immersion enjoy local traditions and encounters with residents. Families with children enjoy calm beaches and discovery activities in full nature.

Other neighborhoods in Naxos

Naxos Town / Chora (capitale)

Couples on honeymoonHistory enthusiastsFamilies with children

Dive into the heart of Naxos Town, the vibrant capital of the Greek island. Chora's winding lanes lead you to a lively port lined with cafés and shops. The iconic Portara, an ancient gateway, stands proudly on the islet facing the crystal sea. Cycladic white houses contrast with the intense blue of the Aegean, creating idyllic scenes at every street corner. In the evening, soft lights invite you to stroll and discover the authentic soul of this enchanting destination blending history and sea.

Agios Prokopios & Agia Anna (plages principales)

Couples on honeymoonFamilies with childrenKitesurfers and paddleboarders

Nestled south of Naxos Chora, Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna unfurl ribbons of golden sand bathed in crystal-clear turquoise waters. Soft dunes and prickly pear trees frame these shores where Aegean light dances on the waves. The scent of salt and wild herbs drifts in the warm air. These two beaches, linked by a shaded promenade, embody the island's natural elegance. Between crystalline swims and blazing sunsets, they offer a refined setting where discreet luxury meets raw beauty for travellers seeking authentic escape.

Plaka & Mikri Vigla (kitesurf & plages sauvages)

Experienced kitesurfersCouples on honeymoonWild nature lovers

Plaka and Mikri Vigla reveal stretches of fine sand bordered by golden dunes and sparkling turquoise waters. The constant Aegean wind makes kitesurfers' sails dance on perfect waves. Wild beaches stretch far from crowds, offering a raw and authentic setting. At dusk, the sky turns pink and orange while the hills of Naxos form their silhouettes. This preserved spot invites calm and thrills amid Greek nature. Lovers of untouched landscapes find their paradise here.

Kastraki & Sud (Alyko & Pyrgaki)

Couples on honeymoonKitesurfers and surfersHiking enthusiasts

South of Naxos, Kastraki unfolds its golden dunes facing an infinite turquoise sea. Alyko and Pyrgaki complete this wild scene where centuries-old olive trees caress white cliffs. Sea winds sculpt the landscapes, creating shifting reflections on the crystal waters. Here, silence is broken only by the murmur of waves and the song of cicadas. This preserved spot invites contemplation, far from crowds. Sunsets set the sky ablaze while scents of wild herbs perfume the air. An authentic refuge for those seeking the raw essence of the Cyclades.

Villages intérieurs (Chalki, Filoti, Apeiranthos & Melanes)

Hikers and nature loversHistory and culture enthusiastsFamilies seeking authenticity

Nestled in the heart of Naxos's verdant mountains, the inland villages of Chalki, Filoti, Apeiranthos and Melanes unfold an authentic tableau of narrow lanes lined with stone houses and flower-filled gardens. Far from beach bustle, these hamlets reveal striking Aegean views, ancient olive groves and Venetian towers. The air is fragrant with thyme and local honey while silence is broken only by the tolling of Byzantine church bells. These places preserve traditional Greek soul and invite deep cultural immersion.