With the Meltemi keeping us close to Paros and the nearby islands for another day, we decided to explore a different corner of Paros.
Our first stop was Kolymbithres Beach, one of Paros’ most famous beaches – and it’s easy to see why! Rather than long stretches of sand, the shoreline is framed by enormous granite boulders that have been sculpted by wind and waves over thousands of years into smooth curves, shelves, and little natural pools. Combined with the shallow turquoise water, it feels almost like nature’s own water park.
Yes, it was busy… Very busy.
But the scenery more than made up for it. Whether arriving by paddleboard or dinghy, everyone in our crew found a little patch of paradise to swim, float, and soak up the sunshine.
After lunch aboard KORA, we set off for Naoussa, about a 15-minute dinghy ride across the bay. With the Meltemi beginning to build, the trip was a little splashier than we’d hoped – but still great fun.
Naoussa is one of those places that perfectly captures the classic Cycladic look. A picturesque fishing harbour sits at its heart, surrounded by whitewashed alleyways, tiny chapels, colourful bougainvillea, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants. By night, it transforms into one of the island’s liveliest spots, attracting visitors from all over the world.
While it wasn’t our favourite village of the trip, we could absolutely understand its appeal. It has an energetic, cosmopolitan feel that contrasts nicely with some of the quieter islands we’ve visited.
Dinner overlooking one of the little inner waterways was another reminder that Greece rarely disappoints when it comes to food.
Afterwards, we wandered the narrow laneways and climbed to a beautiful church overlooking the harbour, where the views were well worth the hike up the hill.
The ride home? Let’s just say we arrived a little wetter than when we left. But Steve seemed completely unfazed, proudly striking his best Titanic pose on the bow of the dinghy. Haha!
With cooler temperatures courtesy of the Meltemi and another beautiful Cycladic evening drawing to a close, we settled back aboard KORA looking forward to wherever the wind would take us next.
