Paxos vacation rentals

Olives, olives, and more olives on the island of Paxos

Just off Greece's northwestern coast, tiny Paxos in the Ionian Islands is the perfect place to kick back and disconnect from the world. With just 3 villages to its name, the island is the epitome of the simple life. While it may be small, you'll find all the pebble beaches, traditional restaurants, and breathtaking scenery you need for the perfect relaxing vacation. Foodies will want to leave their diets at home and enjoy all the amazing olives and wine. Be sure to leave some room in your suitcase to take back some tasty treasures.

Exploring Paxos: a tale of 3 distinct villages

With an area of just 16 square miles, the island gives you 3 villages to choose from when planning your Paxos vacation rental. Gaios is a quaint port town, centered around a picturesque Venetian square. Another highlight is the Church of Agios Apostoli. On the north end of the island is Laxos, known for its sheltered bay that's great for water sports. Rounding out the trio, Loggos is a tiny fishing village with plenty of places to grab a drink or bite. Offshore, the islet of Agios Nikolaos features a 15th-century Venetian fortress, and nearby Antipaxos is essentially one giant vineyard.

You'll learn to love pebble beaches (if you don't already)

Paxos may be tiny, but that doesn't mean it's lacking for beaches. The pebbly stretches on the eastern shore are particularly popular with Italian travelers. For water sports, head to the north end. If you prefer sand, take a short ride to the beaches of nearby Antipaxos. Be sure to pop in for a tasting at the spectacular vineyards there. Back on Paxos, the tastings are all about olive oil. A Paxos vacation rental also offers something for the culture vultures in your travel crew, with a popular classical music festival held every year.

I bless the rains down in Paxos (not all year, don't worry)

If you're heading to your Paxos vacation rental between October and February, you'll probably want an umbrella, because that's when most of the rains fall (something has to make all those olive trees grow). You'll also see the coldest temperatures from December to April, with lows dipping into the 40s. The other half of the year tends to be sunny and dry. Highs sit in the mid-70s to upper 80s from May to October, peaking in July and August. Those are also the best months for swimming, when the sea water is pleasantly in the 70s.

Exploring the natural landscape of Paxos

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to appreciate the scenery, Paxos is a great place to spend some time outside. Here are some of the area’s most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Avlaki Beach (1.3 mi / 2.2 km)
• Voutoumi Beach (5.2 mi / 8.4 km)
• Sarakiniko Beach (11.1 mi / 17.8 km)
• Arkoudilas Beach (11.3 mi / 18.2 km)
• Kavos Beach (11.9 mi / 19.1 km)
• Anthousa Waterfall (13.1 mi / 21 km)

Transportation options to and around Paxos

Fly into Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (CFU), the closest airport, located 30.4 mi (48.9 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could book a flight to Preveza (PVK-Aktion National), which is 38.2 mi (61.4 km) away.