voted best island in europe 2018 (travel + leisure magazine), paros is known throughout the world for its divine white marble. today, it’s quarries are quiet, but the same bright stone can be seen across this carefree destination, reflecting the warm greek sun throughout the year.
a medium sized island, paros is a pleasingly round shape, formed by a single mountain sloping gently down on all sides towards the sea. just a 3-4 hour ferry trip from athens, or a short 40 minute flight from the city to paros national airport, the island is well connected and centrally located within the aegean, making it the perfect choice for international visitors all year long.
peaceful throughout the winter, paros bursts into life come summer, with countless boutiques, cafes, artisan workshops and traditional shops opening their doors to visitors from the greek mainland and beyond. despite its role as a popular tourist destination, paros has managed to preserve its local spirit in a way some other islands have not. traditional houses are whitewashed with blue doors and window- frames, whilst larger buildings may have beautiful private gardens filled to the brim with fragrant orange trees and vibrant bougainvillea.
the first choice for the smart set is naousa, a typical cycladic settlement filled with cobbled streets and simple, white buildings. the tiny harbour is home to countless traditional tavernas and ouzeries, whilst the sight of fresh octopus hung up to dry on is a regular, ever-day occurrence. gastronomy lovers are spoiled for choice at this culinary hotspot of the aegean, with prestigious names including barbarossa, mario restaurant and le sud serving the freshest seafood all summer long. naousa also boasts a vivid nightlife scene, from elegant city clubs and award-winning bars to traditional kafeneions and laid-back cafes.
welcome to ailia estate, an upscale villa complex consisting of six private villas on a plot of 4300 sq.m. and 4000 sq.m. natura plot overlooking the aegean. nestling nearby the cosmopolitan santa maria beach, in the northern part of the island, the fully furnished villas offer an oasis of tranquillity and unparalleled luxury, amid a pristine scenery.
the waterfront villas are built in a way that ensures complete privacy among guests and their interiors are stylishly decorated to match the luminous surroundings.
every villa is equipped with all modern comforts: from spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms to fully equipped kitchens and cosy outdoor sitting areas.
step out on the spacious terrace to enjoy laid-back moments sunbathing on the comfy loungers and sunbeds, and when the sun gets too hot, immerse in the refreshing waters of the pool. lay back and let the calming sea breeze and the gentle scents from the garden that surrounds the villas take you to a place where all your worries are history. or you can walk down 10 steps to the private sandy beach of crystal clear aegean waters.
ailia estate is the perfect place to align your senses and connect with the pristine nature, blossoming out its treasures all around you. let your gaze glide slowly from the gorgeous santa maria beachfront all the way to the enchanting silhouette of filizi islet, a natura 2000 protected area, and feel nature’s vibes sweeping you off your feet.
paros is one of the most beautiful cycladic islands, with its capital, parikia, being a perfect example of cycladic architecture: whitewashed houses with blossomy yards and balconies, quaint cobblestone streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
crisscross the island to explore its gorgeous countryside with picturesque traditional villages of unique beauty and cultural interest. naoussa is probably the most famous settlement in paros, showcasing ruins of a venetian fortress, dazzling white houses, and a charming little harbor where you can gaze at the colorful traditional fishing boats. santa maria, marpissa, ambelas, lefkes, alyki and pisso livadi, are but a few other charming hamlets that are worth a visit to explore the authentic paros life.
if you are interested in history and archaeology, in paros you will have the chance to explore many sites that will enrich your knowledge of history and broaden your horizons such as the ancient church of ekatontapiliani, the venetian cast le, the apollon and artemis temple called “delion”, the ancient cemetery, the temples of asclepius and pythian apollo, the monastery and ancient ruins at agios ioannis detis, the ancient quarries in marathi and many more.
discover the remarkable and diverse coastline of paros, boasting sun-kissed –and mostly sandy– beaches with crystal clear waters, like chryssi akti, santa maria, agios ioannis, also known as monastiri, ambelas, kolymbithres and the famous pounda. many of the beaches in paros are blue flag awarded, and, in some of them, you will find modern facilities to engage in water sports as well.
