High above the emerald valley of Naxos, where olive trees whisper and the Aegean stretches endlessly, there lies a place born from love and artistry — ELaiolithos. It’s not simply a stay; it’s a tender encounter with the island’s soul. Here, mornings awaken to birdsong and mountain light, dinners unfold under a velvet sky, and each detail carries the touch of care and intention. This is a place where time slows, hearts open, and nature itself becomes part of your stay.
Surrounded by olive groves and perched above the lushest valley of Greece’s Cyclades, ELaiolithos feels like a dream suspended between sky and earth. The views stretch endlessly — from the sacred slopes of Mt. Zas to the glimmering Aegean Sea — and every sunrise brings a moment of stillness that feels timeless.
More than a boutique hotel, ELaiolithos is a love letter to Naxos itself. It is the only zero-waste hotel on the island, and the first in Greece to receive the Global Golden Award Certification for Sustainable Excellence.
ELaiolithos is owned and run by Helen, a true Naxian with deep roots in the surrounding villages and whose story is woven into every corner of this place. Her vision was simple yet profound: to create a place that harmonises beauty, sustainability, and local culture, a space where travellers could slow down, reconnect with themselves and nature, and experience Naxos not as tourists — but as part of its heartbeat.
With its serene surroundings, local and seasonal cuisine, art-filled interiors, and endless views that stretch from the mountains to the sea, staying here feels like entering a world where time softens, and life feels beautifully real.
Even if sustainability isn’t your main focus, you’ll fall in love with the calm energy and breathtaking scenery here. The mountain air feels pure, the silence restorative. Each suite opens onto mountain views that stretch over olive groves and valleys — landscapes that seem to shift colour with the light.
At the on-site restaurant, dishes are prepared with care, often by Helen herself, using organic ingredients from family and nearby farms. Every meal tells a story — of family traditions, ancient recipes, and the vibrant flavours of Naxos. Many visitors come just for the food.
Each of the five uniquely designed suites is inspired by local mythology and artistry:
Every suite shares the same breathtaking view of Mt. Zas, the valley and the Aegean beyond. They all include kitchenettes, while some have private lounge areas, and all are adorned with handcrafted details that reflect the spirit of Naxos. The hotel also offers a pool that mirrors the sky, a gym, and a peaceful terrace for lingering over morning coffee or a sunset wine.
Check the rates for Elaiolithos.
Staying at ELaiolithos means immersing yourself in the heart of authentic Naxos. From the hotel, ancient trails lead to villages like Moni, Kaloxylos, Chalkio, and Filoti — each a small universe of tradition, local craftsmanship, and history.
Many guests hike to Mt. Zas (Mountain of Zeus), the highest peak in the Cyclades, or simply watch the sunset paint the landscape gold from the hotel’s terrace. Despite its elevated location, the air is calm, the nights peaceful, and the stars astonishingly bright.
ELaiolithos leads the way in sustainability — not as a marketing concept, but as a lived philosophy. With 95% of its operations being sustainable, it has earned multiple awards, including the Zero Waste Golden Distinction and the Global Gold Award Certification by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), this hotel stands as a model of conscious hospitality.
Helen’s commitment extends to every detail:
I stayed at ELaiolithos for several nights, and from the first morning, I felt something rare — an atmosphere of sincerity and soul. The first thing I noticed was the fresh mountain air, which contributed to the most peaceful, uninterrupted sleep I’ve had in a while.
I woke up to a symphony of nature: the gentle ringing of goat bells, the rustle of olive leaves, and the golden light spilling over the valley. Breakfast was a celebration of flavour and freshness — local fruits, fresh Greek yoghurt, homemade jams, and cheeses from Helen’s brother’s farm.
Helen herself took the time to share stories about Naxian life and invited us to visit nearby villages, meet local producers, and even join a visit to her mother, who, at 79, still practices the ancient art of loom weaving. Watching her weave was like watching history breathe.
Evenings were spent dining under the soft glow of the terrace, with lemon-baked potatoes, Naxian cheeses, and local wine. Conversations flowed easily between guests, and Helen’s warmth made it feel as though we were sharing a table with old friends.
It wasn’t just a stay — it was a connection.
Whether you come to hike and explore, to celebrate your honeymoon or anniversary, to share a quiet romantic escape, or simply to unwind and rediscover a slower rhythm of life, ELaiolithos offers something rare—an experience that speaks to both heart and mind. It’s a place that reminds you that sustainability and beauty can walk hand in hand, that true luxury is local, and that genuine hospitality still carries a human touch.
It’s more than just a boutique hotel—it’s a living expression of Naxos’ culture, its people, and its landscape. Here, sustainability meets soul, and every guest leaves not only rested but inspired.
For me, it wasn’t simply the best boutique hotel in Naxos — it was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had.
