I visited Naxos last in 2021, just as international travel had opened back up. I visited Basilico cafe for a cooking class, there were 5 people in the class and we were hosted by a beautiful young girl named Anna. Basilico is a 6th generation farm in the middle of Naxos. I had such great memories of that day that I booked another class for today. Anna and her family are still doing cooking classes that include a tour of their family farm, olive trees and some farm animals. Anna now has a beautiful baby boy but has endless energy as she meets visitors from all over the world.

I ask Anna about her son’s name, she shares that they don’t name the baby until he is baptized later this year. For now he is Baby! The tradition will be to name him Evangelos, the same name as her father-in-Law. Similar for girls, Anna is named for her Mothers mother. So at family dinners there will be multiple Anna’s and Evangelos!!

Our group had about 20 people, many from the US but also UK, Australia and Switzerland. We walk thru the garden to pick vegetables, meet the animals and along the way she shares the rich history of agriculture on Naxos. They rely on their farm to press their own olive oil, harvest their own food and make their own cheese.

We see a small castle that is for sale if anyone is interested!!

Anna guides us thru chopping and pouring for stuffed peppers, vegetables and tzaziki.

We go on a short hike and Anna shares stories about her family farm and Greek culture. It’s fascinating, I only wish I could remember it all!!

Anna’s mom makes Loukamoudres for dessert and wine from their harvest is poured throughout. It’s just amazing, the combination of their home, the food and the company. People sharing their travel stories and their experience in Greece. For most, Naxos will be one of three or four islands on their trip.

The evening ends with Anna and her brother leading the group in Greek dancing, then plate breaking then line dancing. Everyone is laughing and happy. It’s a beautiful experience.

Line dancing apparently is universal!!

Thank goodness we have taken a taxi, the island roads are steep and winding. It was a really beautiful day. Will need a full beach day to recover!