Entire home

A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view

Photo gallery for A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view

The terrace, blissful to lie down on the long couch and read.
The charming terrace and the Venetian cathedral belltower
The perfect breakfast spot on the terrace at Castro Sea View House.
Juliette balcony view towards Mykonos from master bedroom 1
Sunset looking out across the sea towards Mykonos from upper living room

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 4190 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor barbecue
  • Deck or patio
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

View map
Naxos
  • Place, Naxos Archaeological Museum
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Naxos Kastro
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Port of Naxos
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Naxos (JNX-Naxos Island National)
    ‪5 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Living Room 1

1 Double Bed

1 bathroom, 3 half bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Bathroom 4

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Number of living rooms
Garden
Dining area

About this property

A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view

A rare chance to stay in a charming fourteenth-century home, in the heart of the historic castle area of Naxos. Come and be bewitched by the special magic of the Castro and this wonderful island.

Sitting above the lively port, the house is a haven of light and sea breezes looking out over the sea, the mountains and our charming sun-trap terrace. Filled with antiques, books, paintings and sculptures, it is a wonderfully welcoming space.

A short walk uphill from the waterfront brings you into the ancient citadel built by Venetian conquerors in the 13th century, surrounded by the stone battlements of the Ducal palace.

The house lies within the Castro walls, a perfect retreat from the buzzy port town. There are two spacious airy, reception rooms, a cool day room, a large kitchen and two comfortable bedrooms (a double and a twin/double). In addition, a lovely whitewashed terrace overflowing with geraniums and bougainvillea provides a wonderful place to sit for breakfast, read a novel or sunbathe.

We have lovingly maintained this historic property since our family bought it in 1963 from descendants of one of the original Venetian families.

It has long been a refuge and inspiration for writers, artists, musicians, archaeologists, and geologists who have fallen in love with the peace of the house and beauty of the island.

All profits are returned to the upkeep of this special place, maintaining traditional workmanship and methods.

As with the whole of the Castro, the house has walking access only, up stepped alleyways. You can park within 5 mins walk of the house, at the foot of the hill.

We think you will fall under the spell of Naxos, as all visitors do.

PLEASE NOTE: we usually book by the week, with changeover on Saturdays, except by special arrangement. Please contact us for dates outside this and we may be able to accomodate you.

PRN (AMA) 00000015062

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Barbecue
Ocean view

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House Rules

Check in after 2:30 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 9:30 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 13–17
Over-11s only, because of the roof access
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Events

No events allowed
This is a very quiet residential area
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
One week minimum stay, Saturday changeover.
Respect this quiet residential neighbourhood next door to the church.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: This is a very quiet residential area
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
Property Registration Number 00000015062

About the area

Naxos

Located in Naxos, this holiday home is in the mountains and on the waterfront. Port of Naxos and Naousa Harbour are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Agios Georgios Beach. Aqua Fun Water Park and Ergostasion Olive Oil Mill are also worth visiting. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with horse riding and cycling.
Map
Naxos

What's nearby

  • Naxos Archaeological Museum - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Naxos Kastro - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Port of Naxos - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Temple of Apollo - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
  • The Portara - 9 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

  • Naxos (JNX-Naxos Island National) - 9 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Avaton 1739 - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Boulamatsis Tavern - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Ραντεβού (Rendez-Vous) - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Avaton - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪520Premium - ‬4 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view?

As of 25 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view on 23 Aug 2025 start from AU$378, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view?

This property doesn't offer parking.

What time is check-in at A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view?

Checkout is at 9:30 AM.

Where is A jewel in the ancient Castro: a 14th-century home with sunset Portara view located?

Situated on the waterfront, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Catholic Cathedral and Port of Naxos. Naxos Kastro and Naxos Archaeological Museum are just steps away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 26 out of 26 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 26 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 26 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ted T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Enchanting

The house on Naxos has the most pleasant vibe and feeling. We had such a wonderful time. The person that helps you on arrival was the best and had a lot of good recommendations. The views are stunning and the courtyard dining is very special. The home is well appointed and welcoming. We will have so many happy memories of our stay in Naxos.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 18 July 2023
Thanks so much for your kind review Ted, we're delighted that you and your family enjoyed the house and the island.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

karen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Castro Delight!

The house was really quirky and we loved it! The situation was amazing, we loved the windy alley ways and never seemed to go the same way! With windows open at night we had easy sleep and no mosquitos to worry us . The walk to the beach and the port was close by and the exercise back did us good! A wealth of tavernas and shops to explore. We all had an amazing holiday and were sad to leave.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept 2021
Dear Karen, we're really glad you enjoyed your stay in the house and in lovely Naxos. Thank you for being great guests and looking after the house so perfectly. Come again soon for some more Naxos magic :). Best wishes, Zita
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ASHLEY M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a find

I have never given a review before but I felt i needed to for Castro. The property was one of the nicest houses we have ever stayed in. It was just perfect, the views from the roof terrace and windows out to sea, the amazing interiors, simple and beautiful. The house is off the beaten track and away from the crowds in the port and sat beautifully next to the church. It was calm, cool in the evenings, relaxing. I was in two minds to share a review as we would love to keep Castro a secret!
Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept 2024
We're honoured to get your first ever review Ashley! Delighted that you and your family enjoyed the house and Naxos so much and want to come again, we love to hear that. Thank you for being such good guests and so appreciative. See you soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Thomas K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

wonderful authentic experience

When you are on the roof of the house, you feel like the king of Naxos! It is a journey back in time in this Venitian House of 1564. In the house is a large collection of nice books that learn you more about the history related to the island and Greece. The daily walk up and down the citadel is a good work out. The city has a great atmosphere, friendly and relaxed. We highly recommend this house.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug 2021
Hi Thomas, thanks so much. We are so pleased you enjoyed your holiday and staying in the house so much. It's just the most peaceful place to sit and read and listen to music with the sea winds blowing through the windows. Although that's the date carved on the coat of arms above the door, that's when renovations were added. The house is actually 13th century! Walking down to the town and beaches is definitely one that leaves you a lot fitter! But only thinner if you can resist all the delicious local food and wine! Enjoy the rest of your holidays.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mimi W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Timeless Island Experience

Our stay in Castro Naxos home was magical. The books, art, sea views, cathedral bells transported us to another time. This is a home of curated treasures, not another IKEA decorated rental. We felt as if we were guests in the home of good friends. The house was spotless and we were welcomed with gifts of freshly baked bread, honey, milk, wine. It was perfect for my husband and I and our two adult children. Everyone had plenty of space and their own W.C. The sea views were lovely and the garden patio perfect for breakfast. The little bench on the roof provided the best sunset view on the island. I highly recommend this treasure of a house.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov 2023
Thank you so much for your lovely words Mimi. Delighted to hear that your family loved the house and your stay in Naxos. It's such a beautiful spot, the sea is wonderful to swim in, and the Greeks are so friendly and hospitable. We never leave without a lump in the throat! I hope you can return one day. Lovely getting to know you a little. Enjoy the rest of the summer. All the best Zita and Harriet
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceptional and unique.

There is a rare atmosphere of stillness, calmness and poetry about the place. If you happen to know Kettle's Yard, this is what it is like. We loved the atmosphere, the view, the terrace, the books, the furniture and the bells. We were kindly welcomed at the ferry. It was a unique experience. In doubt, just book. Thank you! (and for the fresh bread, olives, the milk, honey and orange juice).
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Susan Wood

Possibly best week away ever...

Absolutely amazing week spent on Naxos and in the house. Just enjoyed every single moment of it. House was so well-equipped, oozing character - it was a sheer delight and pleasure simply to be in it. The roof-top terrace with its sun-trap and access to the roof and views for miles was just a treat. We were blessed with the weather, but were glad to have the opportunity to settle in with books by the stove/fire on the one overcast day we did have during our week. In addition to all of this we really appreciated the tips / info given to us in emails and the handwritten notes in the house with suggestions / recommendations etc... Cannot speak highly enough of the house and of the lovely, lovely week we spent in Greece. Super keen to return again.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Jane B.

The perfect setting for a perfect Greek holiday

What a brilliant place . Rabnet house is absolutely charming ,high , light , with delicious breezes . The house is very comfortable and has everything you might require for a great holiday . It has to have one of the best positions in the quaint town of Naxos especially for sundowners on the roof . The town itself has everything you need ,you can easily get away from the bustle of high season cafes and get lost in the maze of streets or indeed join the bustle and eat in one of the numerous cafes and tavernas there is something for everyone . The bus's are frequent to the main beaches and you can easily pick up a car for the day to explore the island between 50-70 euros ( high season) . There are some great walks along ancient mule tracks and empty beaches in the South. The owners have created a fantastic atmosphere and I would definitely recommend this property , a lucky find .
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your lovely comments! So glad you had such a good holiday. We get lots of wonderful emails after people stay in the house but its great to have a review to post more publicly. Our mission is to keep our thirteenth century house going (all rent from family and visitors goes into maintenance) and introduce more people to the island of Naxos and its people - we think it is the best place in the world!
Archival

10/10 Excellent

George G.

Magical house

This was our sixth stay in this house, and we have already booked our seventh. We used to bring our children but now we come by ourselves or with adult friends. The best things about the house: its patio for leisurely breakfasts and quiet reads and its situation in the quiet Kastro conservation area. Step out on to the roof and you are at the top of the town. While heavily dependent on tourism, Naxos is relatively unspoilt (no international airport), with wonderful beaches and white villages to explore inland. Almost all the produce is local - you are unlikely to taste such delicious salads and fruit anywhere else. And in our experience the Naxians who serve in the restaurants, most of which seem to be family owned, do it with rare grace, friendly and neither grovelling nor grudging. And the walk up the house from the harbour front two or three times a day will keep you fit.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thank you so much for your comments, George and Sylvia. So many people who stay tell us about the spell the house and the island casts on them, and many come back repeatedly, like you. But you forgot to mention gin and tonic on the roof watching the sun set over Paros. Or is that just my favourite thing! We always love reading your children's remarks and what new things you have found to do in the Visitors and tips book. May your future visits be as memorable as your past ones - and I hope you'll find September as equally magical as May! We are off to Naxos next week :-)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous unique home with breathtaking views

Our family LOVED our stay in this very special home. We spent every night on the roof watching the sunset with the best view in Naxos. Jackie, Zita, and Harriet go out of their way to make your stay lovely. Swift communication and suggestions and care. They treat you like family. If you have mobility issues, this is not the house for you but able-bodied visitors who want to immerse themselves in what it would be like to live in Naxos as a local will revel in how truly rare and extraordinary this home is. There is no AC. We had an unusually hot week with little wind. A few oscillating high functioning fans would be an essential added addition to this home. That would be our only suggestion. Everything else was perfection.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 18 July 2023
We're so glad you were happy in the house, Amy! It was lovely to have you to stay. We have bought new fans. We're aiming to avoid A/C for environmental reasons; the thick stone walls usually provide a cool interior but the climate is changing - so we're watching carefully for the future.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzannah Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Please read- we have lots to say!

Sat-Sat booking June 2024 5 people- parents and 3 teens never stayed on a Greek Island before Naxos was ranked best beaches and family-friendly- and it was 100%! We had a wonderful time! What a lovely home- it’s 500+ years old and no a.c. so know that going in. It creaks and has it's own personality, but living in the modern hustle and bustle of the US, we fell in love with the simplicity. Jackie met us as we disembarked the ferry, she was delightful and knowledgeable. We thought we might die hauling our suitcases to the home but the rest of the week we loved the journey through the winding passages throughout Chora. We felt like locals by day 2, knowing our way from here to there easily. About midway through the week we were actually asked direction by another family- and we knew where to direct them! We took laundry into town about midweek-15€ and folded! Our favorite restaurants were Scirocco, Irini’s, Verus, and Capriccio. Nothing was better than Honey & Cinnamon for brunch on a couple of days as we walked back from St. George’s beach. We had so much leftover from the dinners out that we were able to use the kitchen to warm up leftovers one night! We ended up renting a car for the day and traveling across the island to Matsouna, stopping at Filoti, Damalas for Pottery Limpertas Manolis, and Saint Anna winery. It was a switchback day, but glorious! We hope to visit again in the future! It was very hard to leave.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 8 Aug 2024
We're delighted you had such a great time Suzannah, there is so much to love about Naxos. Thanks for the lovely review. It's true that getting bags to anywhere in Chora is a one-off chore but then the rewards are worth it, what with the views and living in a no-car medieval citadel! Plus you get to eat all you like and burn it off on the way home :) We love that part. Please come again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patricia L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

La maison de Jane

Accueillis chaleureusement par Jackie, nous sommes immédiatement tombés sous le charme de cette ravissante maison et de son histoire. Meublée avec goût, elle dispose d'un joli et confortable patio, ainsi que d'un toit-terrasse offrant une vue à couper le souffle sur la mer. Idéalement située, elle est proche des commerces et à une dizaine de minutes de la plage. Nous ne pouvons que vous recommander cette demeure.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Sept 2024
What a lovely review, merci mille fois Patricia. C'e'tait un plaisir de vous acceuillir dans la maison. Thanks for being such good guests, for leaving the house in great condition and for excellent communication. Come and stay again :)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Murielle S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Super séjour dans un lieu authentique

Vacances à la fois farniente et découverte en famille dans un lieu magique
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Delphine d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Un séjour de rêve !

Nous avons passé une semaine formidable en famille dans cette maison. Ce n'est pas n'importe quelle maison, elle a une âme et du caractère. La vue est époustouflante. Tout est joli. Tout ce dont on peut avoir besoin est à disposition. La situation est idéale, tout en haut de la vieille ville, à 5 minutes de tout et à 10 minutes de la plage. Nous avons été très bien accueillis, et n'oublierons pas ce séjour, et avons même envie de revenir ! Merci Jackie et Zita pour votre gentillesse !!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Patrick Garton G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliant!

This is an amazing place to stay. We stayed here 10 years ago and this time was just as magical. The beauty of the house and the sense of history all around are what make it so special. We love it and hope that we don't have to wait another 10 years before our next visit.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexis C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning

Charming house, ideally placed to enjoy the animation of Chora while being perfectly quiet. A family home, full of lovely furniture and antiques. Fantastic view, absolute calm, attentions on arrival. Stunning !
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Caroline Kelly K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Naxos

This house is just amazing, typical Greek house with authentic furniture, perfect for a group of friends as we were . If you prefer the real Greece then this is for you. Not only will you have a fabulous holiday but get super fit with all the steps getting through the town to the house. Top tip you can cut off some of the trek by using the lift at Avaton, plus have a cocktail on the roof terrace on your way back to the house. Perfect location to explore the island from and have wonderful evenings in the town. Watch the sunsets from the roof terrace with a chilled glass of Rose. The courtyard is perfect for leisurely breakfast with the local fruit, honey and Greek yoghourt. We had the best holiday and would certainly recommend this house for a real Greek experience.
Stayed 28 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cyril G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabuleuse location

Maison avec une atmosphère exceptionnelle. Tout est parfait. Dans ces conditions les vacances sont vraiment passées trop vite!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Priscilla H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Like stepping back into a fairy tale

Our family of 5 with kids ranging from 10-15 had the most delightful stay at this Kastro house. The neighborhood and house itself have so much character. Our motto has become, ‘when you can stay in a castle, always do so.’ We got lost in the labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets practically every single time we left the house and it made it all the more special. The church bells right next door and from other churches in close proximity make sure you wake up-we heard them almost every morning. We did scuba diving at the Blue Fin Diving Center in Agios Prokopios, so we spent our days at that beach eating and reading and walking and soaking up the sun. We came back to the house in the evenings -after an ice cream break somewhere-and enjoyed wine and fresh bread with olive oil-and enjoyed the terrace and the rooftop for sunsets especially. We spent a week and enjoyed every minute. Also recommend the sunset catamaran ride offered through Adventure Seaze at the port. We ate at so many delicious meals at restaurants in the port and the neighborhood. We got supplies at the market(you need to either buy water or go to the spigot up the street) and there’s a place that will do your laundry next to the market. We appreciated the 3 WC’s and the 3 bedrooms. Everything felt really old and perfect. The views from the upstairs bedroom and living room are so bright and blue and ocean filled. I could go in and on. Jackie the property manager helped with absolutely every request. She met us at the port to help us get oriented and find our way to the house.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jens S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful week at Naxos Castro

The house is a gem in the old citadel of Naxos citadel. We were welcomed at the port by the friendly house keeper. He brought us through the labyrinth of small alleys. The house is very old with ancient walls and floors. On some spots you can see through the bottom. It breathes history. The interior of the owner family is ancient with lots of books. We enjoyed our stay a lot with the tranquility of the place making our stay extremely relaxing. The host Zita took so much care about us in advance! Thank you! It is a pity for the Greek population how empty not only Naxos is. If you dare to fly go there now and experience this country like never again in summer. Waiters and shop asisstants are almost all wearing face masks. You can easily keep a healthy distance.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Eyuep K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A real gem hidden in Kastro

We had the privilege of staying in this special house for a week in August 2019. The house is a real gem, hidden in a quiet (except when the church bells toll) corner of Castro, lovingly maintained, full of beautiful things, furniture and books. The view from the roof is breathtaking! Such houses are very rare and we indeed first came across the house while searching for a rental in the Cyclades and then booked our holiday on Naxos just because of the house. It was absolutely the right decision, we had an amazing week!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christelle C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical place

This house is hands down in our top 3 vacation ever. This place has a soul. The location in the castro is perfect in our opinion. It's unique. The view is breathtaking from the rooftop. We loved the authenticity of the house. It is a home and not just any rental or hotel room. It is extremely peaceful. You can only hear the church bells once a day. And a few people walking down the street amazed by the beauty of the medieval setting. Yet, you're only 5 minutes away from the downtown restaurants and stores. We truly hope we can go there again.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thank you for your very kind words Christelle. It sounds like you loved our home as much as we do! We're really pleased that you had such a good time and we'd love you to come again. If you come in the spring, the island is full of wild flowers and your lovely family can do more walks around the ancient sites, as they are all so interested in history.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

3 Couples in Naxos for a week

It was a perfect home for our group of friends. Ideal location, close to restaurants, shopping and near the water. At home, there were many great spots to enjoy both cooking and socializing in the house. We highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thanks Gary. We were so pleased that you all chose our house to come to after your concert in Athens. It's the first time we have had so many talented musicians under one roof! It's a great space to enjoy with friends, we love cooking, chatting over long meals, playing music and reading there with chums. Not to mention heading to the sea for midnight swims !:-)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

MARKO M.

Simply great!!!

Romantic, cozy, medieval uptown nest on 4 levels. Superb view from the rooftop. Marko
Stayed 12 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Mar 2020
Thanks Marko! What a nice description of our house! So glad you liked it. Hope the wind stayed nice and strong for all your water sports and the girls enjoyed all the sunbathing :-) Zita
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Susan Wood

Possibly best week away ever...

Absolutely amazing week spent on Naxos and in the house. Just enjoyed every single moment of it. House was so well-equipped, oozing character - it was a sheer delight and pleasure simply to be in it. The roof-top terrace with its sun-trap and access to the roof and views for miles was just a treat. We were blessed with the weather, but were glad to have the opportunity to settle in with books by the stove/fire on the one overcast day we did have during our week. In addition to all of this we really appreciated the tips / info given to us in emails and the handwritten notes in the house with suggestions / recommendations etc... Cannot speak highly enough of the house and of the lovely, lovely week we spent in Greece. Super keen to return again.

About the host

Hosted by Zita Newcome

Host profile image
We are three British sisters lucky enough to inherit this wonderful house from our aunt, who lived on Naxos for decades. We have loved the house, the island and its people since we were young, as have our children in turn.

We love swimming in the incredible turquoise waters, going for long walks in the interior of the island, relaxing at the house reading, or having long meals at the island's excellent tavernas. We are a family of artists, who love to find a quiet corner of the island to paint or draw.

We care for the house using traditional methods that respect its historic construction. We love to share it with visitors and hear how they too fall under the spell of the house, the Castro, and Naxos.

Why they chose this property

Castro Sea View House is a very magical place, and we love it for its secluded position inside the walls of the medieval citadel. You're in the heart of Naxos town, with everything close by, yet you're above all the hustle and bustle. The views over the sea, the ancient Portara, the mountains and church roofs never fail to enchant.

Our aunt bought the house in the '60s to be a haven from the heat of Athens, where she worked. The house was always a refuge for her friends: archaeologists, historians, writers and artists who loved to stay here exploring the culture and antiquities of the island.

Naxos is a great destination for lovely beaches, beautiful walks, great local food and friendly people. It is wonderful to sail on a ferry across the Aegean sea to this fascinating island, full of history. You'll relax so much you'll never want to leave! There is a great variety of delightful tavernas, both along the port and beach or in the alleyways of the old town. You can walk to everything you need and not step in a car at all, or you can do road trips and experience the spectacular drives through the mountains, finding hidden villages, Byzantine chapels and ancient ruins.

What makes this property unique

This is a rare chance to stay in the historic citadel of Naxos, built by the Venetian families who conquered the island in the 13th century. Abutting the lovely Catholic cathedral and close to the archaeological museum, the house is full of history. The Venetian coat of arms on the cellar lintel is dated 1564 - the year of Shakespeare's birth, yet this was only the date when it was renovated, long after it was first built! The marble column supporting the ground floor is a remnant of the classical Greek settlement on this hill.

The Castro hovers above the hustle and bustle of the tourist zone, yet it is just a few flights of steps down to the port town, with its lively marketplace, tavernas and waterfront. A few hundred yards through the North Arch of the castle brings you to the Agora, the ancient market place where you can buy bread cooked in a wood-burning oven, fresh peaches, local vegetables, wine etc . The local produce is delicious and wonderful for cooking up feasts at the house.

You will sink into the timeless atmosphere of this cool and calm home. You can have an all-action holiday or just read, paint and listen to music. Whatever your choice, we hope you'll find this a very special place to stay.

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