Paros has long been a watersports paradise, attracting fanatics from all over the world who appreciate the dependable weather conditions and the clean seas. Small water taxis leave Parikia and Naoussa for the outlying beaches, while operators offer tours of the island and some companies have small self-drive boats for hire for following your own itinerary.

Wine-making is said to have evolved on the island some five millennia ago during the Cycladic civilisation period and the island has a long tradition of viticulture. Similarly, Paros has a strong culinary identity and cooking classes are available to learn the gastronomic secrets of the island.

A blaze of wildflowers under the Spring sun, Paros is a perfect destination for hikers and trekkers with a network of 35 kilometres of trails and paths. Some are organised and well-marked, others are old like the Byzantine Road that connects Lefkes and Prodromos, while the Paros Park peninsula is a splendid way to appreciate the authentic landscape of the island.

Paros Kite
The Southern Cyclades are blessed with reliable winds in the summer with the meltemi caressing their shores. The channel between Paros and Antiparos funnels these zephyrs for some of the best wind and kite surfing conditions and water sport enthusiasts flock to the turquoise seas from all over. Paros Kite have 30 years of experience on Pounta beach and their beach bar next door to the surfshop is a great pkace to refuel after a day of exertion in the water. Paros Kite (Tel.: 69441 99666, www.paroskite.com)