Butterflies

7 km west from Parikia , near the Monastery of Christos sto Dasos (or Agios Arsenios), there is a place well known as the Valley of the Butterflies or “Petaloudes” (from a Greek translation), an idyllic landscape of dense vegetation and abundant spring water, a unique monument of natural beauty. The butterflies reserve on the island of Paros is considered one of the main attractions of the island for the past 30 years.

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The area is a small park with paths and steps, so making your way around is rather easy. There is a small fee to enter, but it’s worth it for the shade and quiet.

During the summer months, swarms of butterflies by the name of “Panaxia 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 fly, which reveals the underside of their wings, a vivid red which contrasts with the blackness of the rest of them.

The butterflies have chosen this place for at least 100 years, making it distinctive. We opened the place to the public in the 70’s so visitors could observe and enjoy the nature at its true form.

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