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Iraklia

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About Iraklia

Just south of far more well-known Naxos, the little island of Iraklia remains amongst the most tranquil and secluded of the Cyclades. A wonderfully quiet spot, it’s a great choice for a relaxed holiday with family and friends, or a romantic couples’ escape. Hikers and beachgoers will particularly appreciate the sense of space; there are fewer than 100 permanent residents on the island. Intimate and charming, the best places to stay in Iraklia promise a warm welcome.

Hop aboard the ferry from Athens, Naxos or Paros, arriving into the pretty port of Agios Georgios. The more developed of Iraklia’s two villages, this community offers some excellent, family-owned tavernas as well as small shops and guest houses. Don’t miss the chance to amble around the village before you head to the beach, or venture inland. Panagia, the island’s other village, is set close to its rocky centre — and a lovely destination for a hike.

Eight hiking trails criss-cross Irakleia’s unspoilt landscape, some leading along striking clifftops — and one to beautiful Merichas Bay, on the south-east coast. Keen birdwatchers can look out for the island’s 170 species of birds, some of which nest in the cliffs above the bay. Heritage aficionados, on the other hand, will be fascinated by the enormous Cave of Agios Ioannis — 1.5 hours’ walk from Panagia — and the ruins of the Castle of Livadi as well as the Agios Athanasios settlement. The team at our pick of the best places to stay in Iraklia are full of top tips for exploring on foot — as well as diving and sailing in the Aegean Sea.

The Best Places to Stay in Iraklia

For Intimate Charm

  • Speires Suites has sleek rooms and suites, with a soothing all-white palette allowing the colours of the gardens and the ocean to take centre stage. Just five minutes from the beach, this is a charming spot for an island escape, complete with friendly & knowledgeable owners. Enchanting.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens, or catch a connecting flight from Athens to Naxos Airport, and take a shorter ferry across to Iraklia from there.
  • There's plenty to see in rural Iraklia! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 28°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

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Best Hotels in Iraklia

  • Speires Suites Naxos, Iraklia 10 rooms from CA$102

    Value chic  -  A chic and stylish hotel on the picturesque island of Iraklia, with a pocket friendly price tag.
    Beach Life  -  The white sands and crystal clear waters of Livadi beach are only five minutes away.
    Great walks  -  There are plenty of hiking trails running through the rugged countryside, the perfect way to get to know the island.
    Sailing  -  Charter a boat and head off to explore the Aegean coast in style.
    RestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Michelin Travel, Great Small Hotels

    Speires Suites is a Cycladic-style complex five minutes from the beach on the lovely island of Iraklia. The white on white rooms and suites are decorated in a sleek minimalist style and come with a private balconies. Sit out on the terrace and admire the views over the mountains and the Aegean sea. See More

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