Filoti - Zas Summit - Filoti

Μετάφραση Greek Version

Filoti - Zas Summit - Filoti

This is a circular route starting and ending in Filoti, and visiting Aria Spring, Zas Cave, Zas Summit and Danakos. This is trail number #2 that brings you to the summit of the Zas, the highest mountain of Naxos and of all of the Cyclades (1,001 m). Located in the Tragea region on the island of Naxos, Mount Zas has important historical and speleological significance. According to mythology, the cave on the northwest flanks of the mountain, is the place where Zeus, the king of the twelve Olympian gods of ancient Greece, spent his childhood.

The panoramic views, turns this hike into a great experience. Do it on a clear day and you can see all the islands around. A sign on the left of the main road in Filoti, indicates the start of the trail. The path follows an easy and paved track to the Aria Spring and Zas Cave, but the way up from the cave to the summit is quite steep and requires a fit person with good hiking shoes. This part is not well marked but it is very scenic. You can rest and resupply water at the Aria Spring though you should carry enough water with you. It is a nice hike that may take more than the described hours, depending on physical and weather condition.

To make it a bit easier, park at the church of Agia Marina and follow the well-marked path up to the summit. Follow the same path back down, instead of the circular route. If you are not having a car, you can take the bus from Naxos Chora to the church of Agia Marina situated at the road to Danakos. The bus does not actually go to the church of Agia Marina and you will have to get off the bus at the Filoti-Apiranthos/Danakos junction and walk to the church (12-12 mins). If you choose the circular route, the total length is 9.070 meters and it will take about 3 and a half hours to complete.