If you’ve watched Maestro in Blue on Netflix, you've likely been captivated by the stunning island landscapes that serve as the backdrop for the series. While the plot is filled with drama, music, and intrigue, one of the show’s true stars is the Greek island of Paxos, where much of the filming took place. This lesser-known Ionian gem has quickly become a must-visit for travelers seeking picturesque beauty with a cinematic twist.

Why Paxos Was Chosen for Maestro in Blue

When the creators of Maestro in Blue began scouting for filming locations, they had a clear vision: they needed a place that exuded natural beauty, tranquility, and charm—an island that could almost become a character in the show itself. Paxos, a small, unspoiled island just south of Corfu, fit the bill perfectly.

Paxos isn’t as touristy or crowded as some of the more well-known Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos. Its off-the-beaten-path vibe made it an ideal location for a show set around intimate stories, relationships, and the complexity of human emotions. The island’s untamed beauty provided the perfect canvas for scenes that range from dramatic confrontations to peaceful, reflective moments.

The island’s landscape—a mix of rocky cliffs, olive groves, and turquoise waters—offers a natural sense of isolation and serenity. This serene setting, with its rustic charm and hidden beaches, made Paxos the perfect backdrop for Maestro in Blue’s complex, emotional storylines.

Key Filming Locations on Paxos

For fans of the show, visiting Paxos offers a chance to step into the world of Maestro in Blue. Here are some of the key spots where filming took place, along with specific places you might recognize from the series.

1. Gaios – The Island’s Bustling Hub

As the main port and capital of Paxos, Gaios serves as one of the central locations in Maestro in Blue. The town's colorful facades, narrow alleyways, and idyllic harbor made it the perfect backdrop for many of the show’s more public moments.

  • Gaios Harbor Promenade: Much of the series takes place along the harbor, where locals gather, and key characters meet for important conversations. Whether it’s at dawn or sunset, the pastel-hued buildings and gently swaying boats in the harbor bring a charming, Mediterranean vibe to the scenes.
  • Gaios Square: Filming here brought together scenes of community gatherings and the everyday life of the show’s characters. This bustling square is the heart of Gaios, lined with cafes and tavernas where cast members were often seen enjoying coffee breaks between takes. During filming, the crew worked closely with local shop owners to seamlessly blend the production into everyday life.
  • Panagia Islet: Just off Gaios lies Panagia, a small islet that is seen frequently in panoramic shots in the series. The islet’s historic monastery adds a sense of mystery and tradition to the show’s visual storytelling. While Panagia itself isn’t accessible during regular tours, its silhouette provides a haunting and peaceful backdrop for scenes set by the water.
Gaios port at Paxos island in Greece

2. Loggos – A Picturesque Fishing Village

Loggos, a smaller, more intimate fishing village, was used for many of the series' quieter, more emotional scenes. Its charming harbor and traditional architecture made it an ideal setting for scenes that required a deep sense of place.

  • Roxi Bar: One of the most recognizable locations from the series, Roxi Bar is perched right on the water's edge, offering incredible views of the bay. Several poignant conversations were filmed here, and it's a spot where the characters gather to reflect and unwind. If you visit, you’ll find that the bar retains its relaxed, friendly atmosphere—ideal for a quiet drink while soaking up the views.
  • Old Olive Mill: Another significant spot in Loggos, the old olive mill stands as a symbol of the island’s history and heritage. Several key scenes were shot here, making use of its rustic charm. With its stone walls and old wooden beams, the mill offers a nostalgic contrast to the island’s modern life, bridging Paxos’ past with its present.

3. Lakka – A Serene Coastal Gem

Lakka, located at the northern tip of Paxos, provides a quieter, more isolated setting for several scenes in Maestro in Blue. The crescent-shaped bay is surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, creating a natural amphitheater of beauty.

  • Harami Beach: Featured in some of the more intimate moments of the series, Harami Beach is where characters come to seek solace or escape. The beach’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic views of the Ionian Sea provided the perfect backdrop for emotionally charged moments. It’s a tranquil place where visitors can relax, away from the main tourist areas, just like the characters did during filming.
  • Akis Taverna: Located just above Lakka’s bay, Akis Taverna became a central location for many of the show’s quieter, contemplative scenes. The traditional Greek taverna—with its blue-painted chairs and sun-bleached white walls—became a favorite spot for the cast and crew when they weren’t filming. The taverna’s authentic atmosphere was woven into the storyline, making it more than just a backdrop—it became a place where characters formed bonds and shared secrets.

4. The Olive Groves – Nature’s Hidden Sanctuary

Paxos is famous for its ancient olive groves, and these tranquil spots became a recurring location in Maestro in Blue. The groves, some of which are over 500 years old, provided a serene, introspective setting for key scenes.

  • Olive Grove Trails: The winding trails through the groves served as natural pathways for the characters. Filming here took advantage of the natural light, with dappled sunlight creating a soft, dreamlike quality to the scenes. The groves, often silent except for the rustling of leaves, became a place of reflection and decision-making for the characters.
  • Ancient Olive Trees: A specific tree in one of the groves near Loggos became a symbolic meeting spot in the series. This particular tree, gnarled and twisted with age, stood as a symbol of the island’s endurance and quiet strength. Local legend has it that this tree has stood for centuries, watching over the island’s inhabitants—a fitting backdrop for the emotional gravitas of the scenes filmed there.
Erimitis Beach

5. Erimitis Beach – Paxos' Wild Beauty

Erimitis Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and clear, azure waters, served as one of the most visually striking locations in Maestro in Blue. Tucked away on the western side of Paxos, this remote beach became a key spot for some of the series' most intense scenes.

  • Erimitis Sunset Bar: The dramatic sunsets at Erimitis are legendary, and the Erimitis Sunset Bar was often featured as a gathering spot for the characters. The breathtaking views of the cliffs and the Ionian Sea during golden hour provided some of the series’ most beautiful, cinematic moments. Whether for romantic encounters or reflective solitude, this location offered a stunning natural backdrop for the characters’ journeys.

Some Anecdotes from Filming in Paxos

The filming of Maestro in Blue was not without its share of memorable moments, and Paxos provided plenty of charm behind the scenes.

  • The Island’s Warm Welcome: The cast and crew were overwhelmed by the hospitality of Paxos’ residents. Locals often invited the production team into their homes for meals, sharing stories about the island’s history and culture. It’s said that one particular family in Gaios hosted a full Greek feast for the entire crew after the final scene was shot in the town—an experience that left a lasting impression on everyone involved.
  • Dolphins Steal the Show: During a key scene filmed near Lakka, a pod of dolphins made an unexpected appearance, swimming close to shore as the cameras were rolling. The playful dolphins briefly stole the spotlight, and while they didn’t make it into the final cut, the cast and crew were thrilled by the magical moment.
  • Olive Grove Superstitions: While filming in the ancient olive groves, local elders warned the crew to be mindful of certain trees, as they believed some had protective spirits. The crew respected these local superstitions, and one director even made a point of thanking the trees for their “cooperation” after each day of shooting.
  • Unplanned Weather Perfection: While many productions struggle with weather delays, the Maestro in Blue crew was surprised to encounter near-perfect conditions throughout their time on Paxos. This allowed the team to wrap up filming ahead of schedule, leaving plenty of time for the cast to explore the island's hidden beaches and enjoy spontaneous outings.

Why Paxos Stands Out

There’s something undeniably magical about Paxos. The island’s remote location—accessible only by boat—adds to its allure. It feels like a hidden secret, waiting to be discovered by those who venture just a bit further. While some travelers seek out the flashy, bustling vibe of other Greek islands, Paxos attracts those who crave a more authentic, peaceful experience.

The absence of large-scale tourism also means that Paxos retains much of its traditional charm. The locals are welcoming, and the island has managed to maintain its character, even as more people discover its beauty thanks to shows like Maestro in Blue. Whether you’re exploring the winding alleys of Gaios or swimming in the clear waters off its pebble beaches, Paxos offers an experience that feels both timeless and serene.

Explore Paxos Like a Local

If you're inspired by the stunning visuals of Maestro in Blue, here’s how you can explore Paxos like a local:

  • Rent a Boat: One of the best ways to experience Paxos is by sea. Rent a small boat and explore the hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by water. You’ll find secluded spots that make you feel like you’ve discovered a private slice of paradise.
  • Visit Antipaxos: Just a short boat ride from Paxos is the tiny island of Antipaxos, which is famous for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches like Vrika and Voutoumi. It's the perfect day trip to escape the crowds (not that Paxos ever feels crowded!).
  • Hike Through Olive Groves: Paxos is covered in centuries-old olive trees. Take a walk through the olive groves to experience the island’s lush, green heart, and enjoy the incredible views over the Ionian Sea.
  • Dine at a Taverna: You can't visit Paxos without enjoying a meal at a traditional taverna. Whether it's fresh seafood, local olives, or homemade bread, the food on the island is simple, fresh, and delicious.

There’s no doubt that Paxos’ natural beauty helped to elevate Maestro in Blue to another level, making the island an unforgettable part of the show’s atmosphere. But beyond the screen, Paxos offers something for everyone—whether you’re a fan of the series or just someone seeking a peaceful, beautiful getaway.

So, if you’re dreaming of a Greek island adventure that feels both cinematic and serene, Paxos is calling your name.

Need help planning the perfect holiday escape to Paxos. Let Isla Guru Islands Travel Guide inspire your next adventure.

Posted 
Sep 12, 2024
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