Paros-Antiparos

The Cycladic Quest

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Intro

Paros and Antiparos, with their rich history spanning over 6,000 years, are two of the most captivating islands in the central Aegean. Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, they offer a unique blend of ancient heritage, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. The islands are renowned for their cuisine, particularly the local specialties made with fresh seafood, local cheeses, and olive oil. Dining in the small seaside tavernas after a day of swimming is an experience in itself!

Trip Dates

  • Mon 22 - Mon 29 September 2025
  • Mon 29 Sept - Mon 6 October 2025
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Paros Routes

Paros Map

PAROS-ANTIPAROS TRIP INTRODUCTION

Gems in the Aegean Sea, Paros-Antiparos, are some of the most charming islands in Greece and part of the Cyclades group. Inhabited since Palaeolithic times and with a rich Neolithic civilisation they are renowned for their stunning beaches, traditional whitewashed architecture, succulent wine and the world famous, bronze age Cycladic idols made from Parian marble. This translucent white marble has been used in the creation of classical architecture like the statue of Venus of Milos and Hermes by Praxiteles. With invaluable local knowledge and the expertise of our guides who have lived on the island, we have curated unique swimming routes that blend dramatic scenery, ancient ruins, exquisite local cuisine and of course, crystal-clear seas. The Cycladic Quest is based in the charming village of Aliki, where swimmers stay at the Galatis Hotel, a peaceful retreat nestled beside a serene beach, offering stunning views of the bay.

This perfect blend of classical culture, breathtaking swim routes, and the quintessentially relaxed Greek atmosphere makes this island an unmissable destination for the discerning swimmer!

This 7-day, approximately 5K swim per day sea adventure, combining coastal routes and crossings, starts on Monday and finishes the following Monday morning. We will greet you on your arrival on Monday evening with a welcoming drink and an introduction to safety by our Paros based team. As part of this trip there will also be an optional opportunity for a filmed swimming analysis and open water swimming technique tips. During the week you will have the chance to explore caves, relax on deserted beaches, swim in remote waters and visit ancient ruins, thus experiencing the full wonder of these beautiful Cycladic islands. It is an unforgettable way to connect with the heart of Greece!

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE HOLIDAY

The trip starts on your arrival at Galatis Hotel, in Aliki. On your arrival day you will be welcomed and in the evening have a chance to meet your fellow swimmers and be briefed on the week’s itinerary and safety issues over relaxing complimentary drinks. On the first day of the trip our guides/coaches will video your swimming technique for an analysis session. We then view this with you and offer advice on achieving a more efficient, injury-free stroke. Individual advice can also be given during the swims. Buffet style breakfast is offered every morning at the hotel and we will then travel by boat to the swimming location (which is different every day). We will escort the swimming groups with the support boats and drinks will be offered at regular intervals during the swim. The boats will be manned by fully qualified first aid experienced swimmers who will keep a watch over you; you will swim approximately 5K daily. You will be given a Paros-Antiparos themed Big Blue T-shirt, a water bottle and a swimming hat to use and keep and we have a range of snorkeling gear and fins you can borrow for exploring in caves or along coastlines.

Summary

  • On Arrival: Complimentary drink, T-shirt, Water bottle
  • 1st Day: Individual underwater video, Individual stroke analysis, Swimming hat
  • 7 nights’ Hotel accommodation
  • Breakfast
  • 3 motorised boats (One main and 2 auxiliary)
  • 3 qualified swim guides
  • Local Greek boat captain
  • Cold drinks along the swims
  • Variety of snacks at the end of each swim
Day 1

Welcome to the quintessential islands of the Cyclades, Paros & Antiparos. We will formally meet and welcome you at 7.00 pm at the terrace of Galatis hotel next to the pool, where complimentary drinks will be on offer. We will brief you on the week’s swims and our Paros-based team will tell you a little about the history of the Cyclades as well as Paros itself, famous for its wine and translucent white marble amongst many things, inhabited since Palaeolithic times!

Day 2

The first swim day is always exciting and having met your fellow guests and guides we will have a briefing on the hotel terrace and let you know the day’s programme. A short stroll along Aliki beach will take us to the marina where our main boat will be awaiting. A short boat ride takes us to the islands of Glarobi and Paderonisi for the morning’s grouping swim; this 500m swim helps us divide you into the 3 groups based on speed and at this point we will hand you your swim hat for the week. We also offer optional filming of your stroke this morning and give you personalised feedback soon after that. Lunch will be at Agios Georgios tavernas on Antiparos and later in the afternoon we will have the first grouped swim. The 2.5K swim follows the stunning east coast of Despotiko - an islet off the south west coast of Antiparos - hugging its cliffs and beaches, finishing near the ruins of the Temple of Apollo.

Day 3

After our morning briefing at our hotel in Aliki we head to our boat and a short ride south, brings us to our first swim along Paros’ southern coast, through clear turquoise waters and beautiful bays. After the 3K swim we go back on board and enjoy snacks and drinks as we cruise to Antiparos town on the island’s north east coast; it’s a lively spot with cobbled streets, tavernas, and boutiques; we shall lunch in a traditional taverna and in the afternoon, we continue north to Kato Fira islet, where we’ll swim 2K along its stunning eastern coastline.

Day 4

This morning, we travel to the southern tip of Antiparos, and swim 3K along the eastern shore from Faneromeni Chapel towards Agios Sostis bay. We’ll lunch at a beachside taverna before returning to Glarobi and Paderonisi, the little islands off Paros’ south coast for the afternoon’s 2K swim, exploring the islets’ scenic bays. We end the day with a short ride back to Aliki.

Day 5

Today brings a mix of history and swimming. We’ll start with a 3K swim along the southern cliffs of Antiparos, where the underwater views are as striking as the cliffs above. Then, we’ll take a short walk on Despotiko islet to visit the Temple of Apollo; an ancient site currently under thoughtful restoration. The temple dates back to the Archaic period, circa 6th century BC and was a major religious sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, son of Zeus, one of the most important gods in Greek mythology. After lunch at Agios Giorgos on Antiparos, we’ll swim a 2K route along Despotiko’s north coast.

Day 6

Today is picnic day!  During our morning’s 3K swim we will explore more of the cliffs of south Antiparos starting at its south tip. After the swim and some well-deserved snacks we will motor to a secluded beach on the uninhabited island of Despotiko, where lunch will be served on the boat. We will be free to visit the beach and play some beach games or simply rest and sunbathe. The 2K afternoon swim will take us along the truly deserted south side of this island.  

Day 7

How can we be at the last swim day already? We will turn south out of Aliki village for this morning’s 3K swim and weave our way along Paros’s southern tip, along Tripiti beach and Pirate’s Cove. We will then reboard and replenish with some drinks and snacks whilst we motor to Antiparos Town for lunch and coffee. This is a busy harbour with many tavernas, coffee places, shops and alleyways, excellent for window shopping. Also look for the large Parian marble replica of the world famous Cycladic idols found during the Bronze Age around these islands, circa 3200 – 2000 BC. From our lunch spot we can see the channel between Paros and Antiparos - that is our last swim - from one island to the other! A short ride down the coast and we will swim from the church of Agia Kiriaki on Antiparos to Agios Nicholaos church on Paros, in our groups and land on the other side as true Parian swimmers!

Day 8

The week has gone too fast and it is our final goodbye, “sto epanithin” (until we meet again). This is the last morning in your accommodation and swimmers are asked to vacate rooms at Galatis Hotel by 11am. If you need to stay for a little longer please ask the owner or let Michael, Lisa or any of the guides know. If you are staying longer on Paros we can suggest accommodation options and places to visit in and around the area.

FLIGHTS

You can reach Paros island by air and although at the moment the airport is not international, there are rumours that one is on the ‘negotiations table’. However, the island is well served by Olympic Airways and Sky Express from Athens International Airport and this is a short 20 minute flight. For connecting flights, it is also wise to check luggage allowance on these shorter flights. Please note that our welcome meeting starts at 7pm on Day 1 so please plan your arrival accordingly.

BY FERRY

For more of an adventure, you could take a ferry to Paros from Piraeus Port next to Athens or Rafina Port near enough Athens. You can choose between high-speed ferries (less than 3 hours) and regular ferries (around 4-6 hours) and these will take you to the traditional, bustling town of Parikia, with its traditional whitewashed architecture. Paros is well-connected by ferry to other Cycladic islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Naxos, and Ios.
Booking: Ferries to Paros can be booked in advance, especially in the high season. Companies like Blue Star Ferries, https://www.bluestarferries.com/en-gb/ Seajets, https://www.seajets.com/ and Golden Star Ferries https://www.ferries.gr/en/ferry-companies/golden-star-ferries/ offer services to Paros.

The ferries from Athens arrive at Parikia which is the main port and it’s a 20 minute taxi ride from the hotel costing approximately 30 Euros.

Alternatively check the KTEL Paros Bus schedule for times (buses may not run frequently, especially in low season); the hotel is a short walk from the bus stop in Aliki.

ACCOMMODATION

Swimmers will be staying at Hotel GALATIS which lies in a quiet and charming location of Aliki village, just less than 10 minutes by car from the airport and 20 mins from the port of Parikia.
It is situated in a marvellously privileged position beside one of the most beautiful beaches of Paros. It is a spacious, family-run hotel providing its services on the basis of sincere interest in the well-being of its guests, whilst their priority has been to maintain high quality services in a cozy and agreeable atmosphere.

All the rooms are ensuite, have a balcony mostly with sea views, air-condition, satellite TV, telephone a small fridge and of course Wifi.

The family-run restaurant offers a buffet-style breakfast and this can be enjoyed on its ample veranda next to the pool, overlooking the water’s front; reception is ‘manned’ 24 hours a day by Anastasia who speaks a number of languages. Aliki itself is a picturesque fishing village on the southern coast of Paros, known for its tranquil atmosphere, inviting beaches and authentic Greek charm. If you aren’t worn out by all the swimming it is an excellent base for hiking and paddle boarding. The area’s serene waters also make it ideal for snorkelling and exploring marine life.

For more information please refer to the hotels website: https://www.galatishotel.gr/en/

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