Mount Zas Trail Naxos
Hike to the highest peak in the Cyclades, steeped in mythology, for breathtaking 360° views of Naxos and beyond.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Mount Zas Trail Naxos
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the highest peak in the Cyclades, steeped in mythology, for breathtaking 360° views of Naxos and beyond.
"This hike was absolutely fantastic and a true highlight of my trip to Naxos."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or good trainers are essential for the rocky, steep trail. Avoid sandals!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Two large bottles per person is recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit of Mount Zas
Summit
Reach the highest point in the Cyclades for unparalleled panoramic views of Naxos and surrounding islands.
Cave of Zas
Near the summit
Explore the legendary cave where Zeus is said to have spent his childhood.
Mountain Goats
On the trail
Encounter friendly mountain goats along the scenic and sometimes challenging hiking path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for the Summit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or good trainers are essential for the rocky, steep trail. Avoid sandals!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Two large bottles per person is recommended.
☀️ Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are crucial as the trail is very exposed. Go early to avoid the harshest sun.
⬆️ Follow Rock Piles
Red paint markers can be hard to see; follow rock piles for the best trail guidance.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots or good trainers are essential for the rocky, steep trail. Avoid sandals!
💧 Hydration is Key
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Two large bottles per person is recommended.
☀️ Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are crucial as the trail is very exposed. Go early to avoid the harshest sun.
⬆️ Follow Rock Piles
Red paint markers can be hard to see; follow rock piles for the best trail guidance.
🐐 Be Kind to Goats
You might encounter thirsty mountain goats; consider bringing a little extra water for them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Mount Zas hike is overwhelmingly praised as a highlight of Naxos, offering spectacular 360-degree views and a sense of accomplishment. While challenging due to its steep and rocky terrain, most visitors find it manageable with proper preparation and enjoy the encounters with mountain goats and the mythological significance of the peak. Some find the trail markers difficult to follow, and the wind at the summit can be intense.
"This hike was absolutely fantastic and a true highlight of my trip to Naxos. I went with my friend and we left our hotel in Naxos town at 5am (ouch!) but we were tight on time, a bit worried about the sun and wanted to see sunrise. We got to the little chapel at about 5.45, followed the trail beginning which was easy to find (my friend had downloaded the trail in All Trails just to be safe). It was incredible! The horizon turned rosy and the sun rose over the Aegean as we hiked. The path was steep and rocky but manageable as long as you’re in decent shape (I’m 37, my friend is 26 and we are both active). Hiking boots would be great but trainers did for us fine - I really wouldn’t do it in any kind of sandal though. The hike was simply magical: we came across mountain goats and the views really are something else. The last part is steep and rocky as you approach the summit. I have a fear of heights and it was only when we got to the summit that my knees felt a bit wobbly. You really do feel like you are on top of the world. In terms of timings, it took us two and a half hours total to get up and down (that includes lots of breaks to take pictures and videos and a short break at the summit, about 15 mins). It is very exposed so I would go early in the morning, wear a hat, take water (we took two and a half big bottles) and enjoy it! It really is spectacular and not to be missed. In fact, it has inspired me to get into hiking.
Oh also, the hike is marked in red paint and at times this is hard to see, the trick is to follow the rock piles instead. We didn’t get lost following this method."
Isolde Walters
"By far our favorite thing to do in Naxos! So beautiful.
We are big nature lovers and love hiking and this one just hit the spot. It is a great hike, not hard to do until the Cave of Zas (closed at the moment), after that you might be good for a little more and then it might get even harder.
Keep in mind you will have to park on the hill going up. Don’t recommend having a big car."
Daniela Cristina Ramirez Calicchia
"Wonderful hike!
We encountered very thirsty mountain goat, so feel free to bring water up for them, you can save their lives!"
Lisianne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is often accessed by parking near a taverna like Pigi Naxos in Ano Potamia. Some recommend a smaller car for the uphill drive.
Yes, parking is available on the hill leading up to the trail. It's advised not to bring a very large car.
Public transport options to the immediate trailhead are limited. Renting a car or taking a taxi is generally more convenient.
Many hikers start from Agia Marina or near the Pigi Naxos taverna. Using an app like AllTrails can help locate the beginning.
The trail is considered strenuous and steep, especially the upper sections. While manageable for active individuals, it can be challenging for those not accustomed to hiking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike Mount Zas. It's a natural trail accessible to everyone.
Mount Zas is accessible at any time, but it's highly recommended to hike during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
The Cave of Zas is sometimes closed, so it's best to check locally for its current accessibility.
While not mandatory, guided tours can enhance the experience by providing historical context and ensuring you stay on the right path.
Local tour operators in Naxos Town or online platforms can help you find and book guided hikes for Mount Zas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The round trip hike typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours, including breaks for photos and enjoying the summit views.
The hike is considered moderately difficult to difficult due to its steep and rocky sections, especially near the summit.
Expect breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Naxos island, the Aegean Sea, and surrounding Cycladic islands.
The trail is marked with red paint and rock piles. However, markers can be faint, so paying attention and using a navigation app is advised.
Wear comfortable hiking clothes, sturdy shoes with good grip, a hat, and sunglasses. Layers are advisable as it can be windy at the top.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible 360-degree vistas. The trail itself provides scenic overlooks and opportunities to photograph the unique landscape and wildlife.
Early morning for sunrise and soft light, or late afternoon for golden hour hues, both offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Look for the dramatic rock formations, the winding trail, the mountain goats, and the sweeping views of the Aegean Sea.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the lower, gentler parts of the trail if you have very young children, or consider if older children are up for a more strenuous adventure. The chance to see mountain goats can be a great motivator for kids.
Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear and is prepared for the exposed conditions. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Starting early in the morning is highly recommended for solo adventurers to enjoy the tranquility, witness a potential sunrise, and avoid the heat and crowds. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time as a safety precaution.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and consider a telephoto lens for potential wildlife shots of the mountain goats. The winding trail itself, with its rugged textures and the play of light and shadow, makes for compelling compositions.
Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards to capture all the stunning moments. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mythology of Mount Zas
The cave near the summit, often referred to as the Cave of Zas, is particularly significant. It's said that Zeus was hidden here as an infant to protect him from his father, Cronus. Exploring this area, even if the cave itself is inaccessible, allows you to imagine the ancient stories unfolding.
This mythological backdrop transforms the hike from a physical challenge into a cultural and historical exploration, appealing to those interested in ancient Greece and its rich folklore.
Navigating the Mount Zas Trail
While marked with red paint, these indicators can sometimes be difficult to spot. Experienced hikers and reviewers suggest following the rock piles as a more reliable navigation method. Using a GPS-enabled app like AllTrails, with the trail downloaded beforehand, is also highly recommended to ensure you stay on course.
The terrain requires careful footing, with many sections demanding the use of both hands and feet for balance. The wind can also be a significant factor, especially at higher elevations, adding to the challenge but also enhancing the dramatic feel of the ascent.
Wildlife Encounters on Mount Zas
Visitors often share heartwarming anecdotes about encountering these animals, noting their curiosity and sometimes their thirst. Some reviewers even suggest bringing a little extra water to share, a gesture that can be appreciated by the local wildlife.
Beyond the goats, the natural landscape itself is a significant draw, with rugged terrain and unique flora contributing to the wild beauty of the mountain. Keep an eye out for other local fauna as you make your ascent.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit