PAROS – ANTIPAROS HOTELIER ASSOCIATION
Cycling through the Parian countryside is an excellent way to discover the island’s natural beauty, passing through vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages. Horseback riding along the beach or through scenic trails also offers an unforgettable experience.
Visitors who love cycling will find plenty of opportunities on Paros. There are many routes and accessible places to explore by bike. A main road circles the island, stretching over 50 kilometers. This serves as the central artery, leading you with your bicycle to Paros’s beautiful beaches and charming villages. The altitude difference along this main road is not significant, making cycling more enjoyable.
When choosing routes, keep your fitness level in mind, and always carry water and snacks—especially in the summer months, as the midday sun can be very strong.
Suggested Routes:
Naoussa – Parikia
The two main settlements of Paros are 12 kilometers apart and form one of the suggested routes. It is fairly easy, with a paved road throughout. Both towns are rich in attractions to explore. After your ride, you can enjoy a swim at Livadia Beach (the main beach of Parikia) or at Piperi and Agioi Anargyroi Beaches in Naoussa. Both destinations also offer numerous restaurants and tavernas with excellent cuisine.
Naoussa – Santa Maria
A pleasant route of about 5 kilometers, with no elevation changes—perfect for everyone. In the first half, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Naoussa Bay, while the second half takes you past houses with gardens and farmland. Santa Maria is one of the island’s most famous beaches and will definitely reward you! After your swim, if you’re in the mood for more exploration, you can follow the coastal dirt road to Ambelas. The return route to Naoussa has a slight incline, with a total distance of about 4 kilometers.
Naoussa – Piso Livadi
This route offers not only a picturesque destination but also charming villages along the way, perfect for a rest stop before reaching Piso Livadi. The total length is about 13 kilometers. Villages such as Prodromos, Marmara, and Marpissa are ideal for breaks and photos. Piso Livadi itself is a delightful seaside village, with two sandy beaches and a small harbor filled with traditional fishing boats. One of the nearby beaches is Logaras. The village also has many fish tavernas and cafés where you can relax before heading back. If you feel tired, you can always take the bus back to Naoussa.
Parikia – Agios Fokas
Agios Fokas is a picturesque church at the northern entrance of Parikia Bay, visible from the town when looking west. Cycling to Agios Fokas is a very interesting excursion. Midway, you’ll be on a small rise opposite Parikia, perfect for panoramic photos of the capital. As the road leads you back to the coast, you can stop for a swim at the popular Marcello or Krios beaches. If you prefer less crowded spots, small hidden beaches can be found further along toward Agios Fokas, as well as right next to the church. Sunset is the best time to be there, watching the sun sink beneath the Aegean waves. The total distance is 5 kilometers.
Parikia – Lefkes
A challenging 11-kilometer route ending at one of Paros’s most beautiful villages. Lefkes sits at an altitude of 200 meters, with enchanting views of the coasts of Paros and Naxos. Its architecture and colors captivate every visitor, while its shops retain traditional character and its locals are warmly welcoming. The road to Lefkes has many uphill and downhill sections, making it quite demanding. Alternatively, you can reach the village by bus and then continue your cycling route toward Naoussa.
