Butterflies

Situated on the picturesque island of Paros, 7 km to the west of Parikia and in close proximity to the Monastery of Christos sto Dasos, lies a place that has always been known as “Butterflies Valley” or “Petaloudes” in Greek . An idyllic landscape of dense vegetation and abundant spring water, “Petaloudes” is a unique monument of natural beauty.

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Well-marked paths winding through the park make it easy to discover all that the Petaloudes has to offer.. The minimal entrance fee is a small price to pay to experience the idyllic setting and escape the heat.

During the months of June to September, swarms of butterflies named Euplagia quadripunctaria, or Jersey tiger moth, settle on this small oasis. They choose this place to spend the last phase of their life.
Resting on the leaves, they can be observed by the guests in their natural habitat. If you are lucky, you might catch them in flight, revealing the vivid red of the underside of their wings, which contrasts with their dark upper side.

For countless years, “Petaloudes” has been a haven for this species, granting it a unique essence. The gates opened to the public in the ’70s, enabling the visitors to relish in the beauty of the natural world. However, it’s crucial to remember that the reserve primarily belongs to the winged creatures. We kindly ask all visitors to be attentive to their environment and refrain from disturbing them in any way.

Butterflies

The valley in which you will find yourself has always been known as “Petaloudes”. This is indeed a true oasis as water comes into the valley from a natural spring all the year around.

Playground

Butterflies Nature Reserve is an ideal destination even for families as there is a small playground also ιn the area.

Cafeteria

In the beginning of the reserve, we have created a cafe that is in complete harmony with the surrounding environment.

Souvenir Shop

For those who would like to have a memento of this island in general or the reserve in particular, there is a shop to choose among a variety of souvenirs.

Byzantine Watermill

Harnessing the energy available to humans through the power of running water, hydro or hydraulic energy, was the most significant step in the evolution of grain milling technology.

Testimonials

This is a must see location on Paros! 400 year old trees, ancient ruins, beautiful garden and butterflies. The nice cooling shade of the trees provide a nice break from the sunny land. If you love nature, you have to visit this spectacular garden. Very sweet owner of the place will tell you more of its history as well.

Villius

Beautiful oasis!! And love the butterflies!
What a beautiful oasis with fascinating butterflies!! Madeleine and her father were wonderful, taking the time to explain the butterflies and some of the amazing horticultural items in their reserve. Just walking along the botantical path, in the cool, quiet and peaceful reserve, would have been worth the trip, but the amazing butterflies (yes, there is only 1 variety), are unique as we observe them in their natural habitat. And when they fly, their red underside is quite brilliant against the greenery. But, difficult to get a photo of them in flight!

Michael

great place
what a great spot to spent your afternoon in Paros. We were lucky to see loads of butterflies, ripe fruit on the trees and even a close look at an amazing falcon that landed to meters from us…

Noa

A must do! Beautiful spot.
This is a beautiful little alcove in Paros! Even if you spend only 20 minutes in the reserve, you’ll be enchanted by the overgrown trees, vine covered walls, and gorgeous fountains. The butterflies are abundant, and the owner of the reserve is kind and welcoming. Don’t miss it!

Kyla