Mt. Zas

At 1,003 metres, Mt. Zas, sometimes written Zia, is the highest summit in the Cyclades, a rounded, rocky peak that rises above the village of Filoti on the island of Naxos. Its name is generally linked to Zeus, and local tradition holds that the king of the Greek gods was raised in a cave on its slopes, which is why the mountain carries his name. A cave known as the Cave of Zas, with stalactites, opens in the hillside and is part of the same story.

The climb is the classic walk on Naxos. A well-trodden path begins from the area near the spring at Aria, on the road between Filoti and the coast, and climbs gradually through rocky slopes, past small chapels and terraced fields, to the summit. The first part is steepest, then the gradient eases across open hillside scattered with low shrubs, and the last stretch to the top crosses bare rock. Signposts and painted marks help with navigation, though a map or a downloaded track is still wise. Another trail starts from the village of Filoti itself and is longer, with a gentler gradient. A third, from near the chapel of Agios Prokopios, is shorter but steeper.

The summit gives a wide, all-round view. On a clear day you see most of the island laid out below, the coast of Naxos, and neighbouring islands such as Paros, Ios, Amorgos and Mykonos, with the Aegean Sea in every direction. The round trip generally takes four to five hours, depending on pace and which route is used. The wind can be strong at the top, and temperatures drop noticeably compared with the coast.

Hikers should carry plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen and a wind layer, and wear shoes with good grip, because the rock is uneven and loose in places. Starting early avoids the midday heat in summer, while spring brings flowers and clearer air. Late afternoon walks are popular for sunset but require attention to the time and a torch for the descent.

Because the starting points are near Filoti, the walk can be combined with lunch in the village, one of the most traditional on the island, where tavernas serve local meat and cheese. A rental car makes access easiest, though buses run along the same road.