The largest and most fertile of the Cycladic Islands, Naxos offers everything people imagine when they dream of Greece—and much of what they fear has disappeared. Whitewashed villages, turquoise coves, sacred ruins, and a living culture that has endured for millennia. With easy access to Paros and the Minor Cyclades, it is the perfect base for a week in the Aegean.
Our journey will unfold on the serene island of Naxos, the most fertile of the Cyclades. Its beaches and mountains have been shaped by centuries of sea, sun, and marble quarrying, while its proud spirit of independence can still be felt today in the joy and warmth of its people. As we arrive in the port, we may hear the locals say “Kalos Irthate,” or “welcome,” as we catch our first glimpse of the Temple of Apollo glittering over the water.
Upon arrival, we’ll have time to settle in before meeting our Alithea guide at 4 PM for an orientation to the week ahead—a week of discovery, movement, whole foods, and in-person connection. This evening, we’ll dine together while experiencing the Greek tradition of philoxenia (Φιλοξενία), a beautiful expression of Greek hospitality and the joy of welcoming others.
After pilates this morning, we’ll feel as though we’ve stepped back in time—and onto a film set. Today, we’ll ride horseback along the dunes and sea, slowing down to a more traditional pace while experiencing a part of island culture that is as authentic as it is cinematic. Following our morning by the sea, we’ll stop for lunch and an energy break before enjoying some free time in the afternoon.
Later, we’ll gather at Lianos Village for a hands-on cooking class, followed by dinner.
After an energizing pilates session overlooking the Aegean, followed by breakfast at our hotel, we’ll journey to the center of the island for our first full day immersed in Naxian life. We’ll be introduced to the agriculture and seasonal festivals that have shaped Greek communities as we visit the ancient Temple of Demeter. Along the way, we’ll begin to see how the story of Greece reflects humanity’s enduring relationship with nature and the sacred.
The remainder of our day will be dedicated to exploring the beautiful villages at the heart of Naxos. We’ll visit the neoclassical village of Chalki, known for its citrus groves and jewelry galleries, where we’ll have the opportunity to meet local craftsmen and artisans. Next, we’ll visit Apeiranthos and Filoti, experiencing the pride these communities take in their traditional crafts and seeing the important role that Greek religion and nature have played in maintaining bonds between generations. After lunch and an opportunity to try the Naxian classic dessert, galaktoboureko, we’ll return to our hotel for a free evening.
This morning, after pilates and breakfast, we’ll explore Naxos on foot. We’ll wander through the labyrinthine streets of Chora, or Naxos Town, where winding, whitewashed passageways offer surprises around every corner and stories from times gone by. Continuously inhabited for more than five thousand years, Naxos has served as a major center of the Aegean since the Bronze Age.
Whether strolling through the medieval town and old market, walking along beaches marked by shells and fragments of pottery, or ascending to the Temple of Apollo, we’ll take part in an immersive journey through the architecture, stories, and spirit that make Naxos unique among the Greek Isles.
After our morning walking tour, we’ll enjoy a traditional cheese tasting and lunch, experiencing some of the island’s local flavors before setting out onto the Aegean.
In the afternoon, we’ll board a private catamaran and glide along Greece’s beautiful coastline. We’ll have time to swim, relax, and take in the spectacular scenery of the Aegean.
We’ll return to the island in the evening for a free evening to explore the nightlife and warmly lit city streets, alive with music and the aromas of Naxian cuisine.
After pilates and breakfast, we’ll set out in the morning by local ferry to nearby Paros. We’ll begin in Paroikia, where the harbor, narrow lanes, and whitewashed churches offer a first glimpse into the island’s character and its long connection to the sea.
After an introduction to the island with our local guide, we’ll continue to Naoussa, once a small fishing village and now one of Paros’s most charming coastal towns. Here, we’ll have time to wander, take in the relaxed atmosphere, and enjoy some time at our own pace.
We’ll then continue our exploration of Paros and Antiparos before taking the ferry back to Naxos in the late afternoon. We’ll return to the hotel with time to unwind before gathering for dinner together.
A full day to relax, explore, and enjoy Naxos at your own pace.
After our morning pilates session and breakfast, we’ll have some free time before enjoying lunch on our own. Around 1:00 PM, we’ll set out on a private boat excursion to explore the nearby islands, with opportunities to swim, hike, and explore along the way. We’ll spend the afternoon on the water, taking in the beautiful Aegean scenery and enjoying the sunset from the boat.
As the evening unfolds, we’ll enjoy dinner on board, surrounded by the Aegean Sea.
After an early morning pilates, our Alithea host will be available throughout breakfast to help with transfers to the airport or port, wherever our next destination calls.
I loved how it was just women on this trip. Great bonding trip for all of us and I will treasure the time we had together
This trip was a once in a lifetime experience. Puglia was one of the most beautiful areas to visit, and all of the women supported each other throughout the journey. From yoga and pasta making to hiking, sailing, and art classes, each day was filled with experiences that shaped the trip and left me feeling grateful and thankful, guided every moment by an amazing team.
I would highly recommend Alithea travel; in fact I already have since arriving home. All the arrangements were handled expertly by very pleasant and knowledgeable staff, including any deviations. My experience was excellent and I would use them again.
Alithea, that was an absolutely unforgettable trip. I'll always treasure the memories we made, especially the boat trip on the Adriatic Sea! Thank you for making it so special!
The travel adventure to Puglia was everything we dreamed of and more. The tour guide team were so knowledgeable and efficient at every moving part. They feel like family to us now. My group of ladies are so excited to travel with Alithea next Sept to Greece. ❤️
With over 25 years of experience helping people move with strength, ease, and confidence, Randi brings a rare blend of expertise, intuition, and joy to every session she teaches.
Before becoming a Pilates instructor, Randi spent years on stage as a professional dancer with River North Dance Company and Joseph Holmes Dance Theatre in Chicago. After a significant back injury, she discovered Pilates at The Pilates Center in Boulder, Colorado — an experience that transformed her body and her path. She went on to complete their world-renowned teacher training program and returned to Chicago to open Frog Temple Pilates, a welcoming studio known for intelligent instruction and a warm, supportive atmosphere.
Randi has worked with professional athletes, weekend warriors, expecting mothers, teens navigating scoliosis, menopausal women rediscovering their strength, and determined 80-year-olds who fully intend to stay active forever. Her teaching style is clear, encouraging, and grounded in the belief that every body can feel better than it does today.
Now, she brings her passion for mindful movement to Italy—leading Pilates in the heart of beautiful Puglia. Her classes blend precision, alignment, and a touch of playfulness, creating an experience that leaves guests feeling stronger, more connected, and deeply restored.
Whether in her Chicago studio or overlooking olive groves and the Adriatic Sea, Randi’s intention remains the same: to help you feel at home in your body—vibrant, aligned, and fully alive.
For further questions don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.
The week includes light to moderate activity such as walking through villages, boat outings, and island transfers. Movement sessions are optional and designed to feel enjoyable and accessible rather than intense.
Not at all. We offer both single occupancy rooms and shared double accommodations. If you’d like to bring a friend and share a room, that’s wonderful, but many women attend on their own and quickly connect with the group.
You will fly into Naxos Island National Airport (JNX). Most international travelers will first arrive in Athens (ATH)and then take a short connecting flight to Naxos, which takes about 40 minutes. After you register, we will provide detailed travel guidance, recommended flight windows, and step by step instructions to make planning your journey easy and stress free.
Yes. Starting in late 2026, U.S. citizens will be required to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before entering Europe. ETIAS is a simple online application, with responses typically issued within 96 hours. Once approved, it is electronically linked to your passport.
ETIAS is not yet in operation, but it is expected to be introduced soon. We kindly ask travelers to check whether ETIAS is required for their travel dates and to complete the application if necessary.
To apply, please visit: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias
Your deposit is fully refundable for 30 days. Consider purchasing trip insurance that provides cancellation for any reason if you'd like to have complete flexibility.
Yes. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in the event of unexpected changes to your travel plans.
Yes. We are happy to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options whenever possible.
If you'd like to stay in Athens city center, consider staying at the COCO-MAT Athens BC Hotel. Alternatively, directly across from the Athens' airport is the five star Sofitel Athens Airport Hotel.
Consider flying into Santorini for two nights. We have booked a limited number of pre-arrival rooms at Strogili Traditional Houses.
