Dips at beaches with crystal-clear waters, hikes through lush nature, strolls through the aristocratic Chora and picturesque villages that are connected to each other by beautiful trails - A mini guide to discovering multifaceted Andros
Just two hours from the port of Rafina, Andros is an island quite different from the rest of the Cyclades. Its lush nature makes you forget youre on a Cycladic island, the beautiful Chora with neoclassical mansions and picturesque villages creates a unique mosaic of experiences and pleasures.
The second-largest island of the Cyclades is multifaceted and has the whole "package" to offer you unforgettable holidays. From unique sights to gorgeous sandy beaches and nature-lover surprises, we have gathered in a mini guide everything that will convince you to visit Andros.
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The aristocratic Chora of the sea captains
The Chora of Andros is one you never forget. Aristocratic, with splendid captains mansions, unique listed buildings, lovely churches and cobbled lanes. Known as the homeland of famed shipowners and captains, it is built on a small peninsula that seems to split the sea in two and in no way resembles a Cycladic capital.
At the entrance to the harbor stands the Tourlitis lighthouse,a unique attraction as it is the only lighthouse in Europe built on a rock. It was built in 1887, destroyed by the Germans during the war and rebuilt in 1994, at the expense of the Goulandris family.
At the northeastern tip of Choras peninsula, on an islet connected to Chora by a stone arched bridge, you will see the remains of the Venetian castle. Opposite the castle lies the much-photographed square where the statue of the Unknown Sailor dominates, dedicated to all the seafarers who lost theirlives at sea.
Along Choras central marble-paved street you will admire the Andros Club, Girokomeio Square, as well as the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. It is also worth devoting time to the interesting museums, such as the Archaeological, the Maritime and the Museum of Folklore and Christian Art. For art lovers, there is always the internationally renowned Museum of Contemporary Art, which hosts interesting exhibitions every summer.
Exploring the villages
Stenies is the closest village to the islands Chora. Noble, with the residences of shipowners and politicians, its large houses spill amphitheatrically down the slope. It is worth seeing the sturdy 17th-century Bistis-Mouvelas tower, the stone Lion Bridge and the now-ruined fabrika.
A stroll in Batsi, especially after sunset, is a must, as this is where the heart of the islands nightlife beats. Cosmopolitan yet without losing its tradition, it is built beside the sea, with an organized beach, many hotels, bars and tavernas.
Do not miss visiting Korthi, which is a whole island in itself! The tower houses, dovecotes, watermills and stone bridges at Dipotamata, the neoclassical houses on the quay of Ormos Korthiou and the old monasteries, such as Tromarchiani, are enchanting.
The best beaches of Andros
Andros offers an incredible palette of shores. Grias Pidima in Korthi is the islands most famous beach. A long, narrow stone rock springs from the crystal-clear waters and steals the show.
Achla, on the eastern side of the island, is for many the most beautiful beach on Andros. Fine sand, small white pebbles, enchanting waters, plane trees up to just before the sand and a little stream that ends on the beach. Access is by boat that departs from Choras port or along the dirt road that only four-wheel drive vehicles can cross.
Among the most popular beaches of Andros are Neimporio and Paraporti next to Chora, Agios Petros, Chrissi Ammos, Kypri and Batsi. Also note the wild beach of Vori with the dramatic shipwreck to the east, Zorkos and Vitali on the northeastern side, Apothikes and Chalkolimnionas in the middle of the islands western side.
Nature and History
Menites is a village in the heart of the island that will initiate you into therare beauty of the place. In the village square there are many fountains with running water that create a magical picture, in combination with the centuries-old trees, as well as the stream that crosses the village.
The Foros Cave is one of the islands surprises. It is located in the village of Aladino, Andros, just outside Chora. It is 4,5-5 million years old and consists of five chambers, four of which are visitable. The stalactites, stalagmites, hanging rocks and multicolored rocks offer a distinctive spectacle.
Another wonderful sight you should not miss is the Pythara waterfalls. The Pythara ravine is in Apikia, ten minutes away from the road via a gentle path full of vegetation. It is also called, according to tradition, Neraidotopos. Its abundant and crystal-clear waters create an amazing habitat, forming small waterfalls and pools where aquatic life abounds.
In the area of Korthi towers the Castle of Faneromeni (Pano Kastro). Climb the steep steps among the ruins to enjoy an unparalleled view of the Aegean.
A characteristic feature of Andros is the existence of many ancient paths, which run across the island almost along its entire length and breadth. The total length of the paths is estimated at about 300 km. A continuous 100 km route of the Andros Routes network has received the European certification Leading Quality Trails- Best of Europe. It crosses the islands mountain ranges, passes through landscapes of great natural beauty and important monuments.
ANDROS GUIDE
ACCOMMODATION
Chora
- The Camara Suites is a beautiful boutique hotel with four unique suites in a privileged location in Andros Chora, on the highest and most secluded edge of the cliff.
- Built within a lush area of 10 stremmas, just 1 km from Chora, Casa di Fiori Andros Suites is a brand-new hotel inspired by the beauty of flowers.
- Myrto Studios and Apartments, on a hill in Neimporio, right above Choras main beach, offers fully equipped studios suitable for 2 people and apartments for 4 people.
- The Rastoni Apartments complex is located in the traditional settlement of Anemomylos in Andros Chora, in a verdant and enchanting environment.
- Vassiliki Studios is just 50 m from the sandy beach of Neimporio and features an outdoor pool.
- Very close to the sea, on Neimporio beach, are the comfortable Stella Rooms & Apartments.
Kypri
- Hotel Perrakis is set in an idyllic location on the Kypri coast, just 3 km from the port of Gavrio. It is a beautiful hotel with modern renovated facilities and a special passion for hospitality.
Kato Fellos
- In a wonderful location, in a valley about 500 m from Fellos beach, Ow Andros Luxury Suites has only 5 suites with premium amenities that ensure relaxation and safety.
- In the same area, Valsamia Studios awaits to host you in 6 studios and 2 apartments, in a quiet environment.
Batsi
- Built above the picturesque harbor of Batsi and just 50 m from the nearest beach, Villa Fiamegou consists of 12 spacious and bright rooms overlooking the endless Aegean Sea.
- Right in front of the sandy beach of Batsi, in the center of the traditional settlement, the newly built rooms Albatross Studios, equipped with all modern amenities, promise carefree holidays.
- Built in a privileged position, in the Stivari area of Batsi, Marisini Sea View offers lovely and comfortable studios and apartments, all with sea views.
- Aneroussa Beach Hotel is ideally built between two sandy beaches, Delavogia and Agias Marinas Aprovatou, with crystal-clear waters, just 800 m from picturesque Batsi.
- Paradise Design Apartments, just 15 minutes from the port, offers discreet luxury and comfort in a particularly warm, friendly and family environment.
- Blue Dolphin is located in one of the most beautiful and amphitheatrical spots of Batsi and features a beautiful garden.
- Equally good accommodation options in Batsi are Amorani Studios, Villa Joanna, Villa Bonatsa and Ilios Studios.
Paleopolis
- Agnanti Apartments offers 10 comfortable rooms that make you feel at home.
FOOD
- In Andros Chora it is worth trying the original and carefully prepared dishes at Endochora as well as the seafood meze at the meze restaurant Nonas.
- In Batsi you will find OTI KALO, a small restaurant that offers wonderful views over the picturesque bay and delicious dishes from Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, made with local products.
- At Tou Zozef in Pitrofos you will savor traditional dishes crafted with care and selected local products by Mrs. Katerina in a lush green courtyard.
- Try the creative dishes of Dimitris Gkiginis at the beautiful Sea Satin Nino in Ormos Korthiou.
- Balcony of the Aegean in Aprovatou serves tasty traditional dishes (be sure to try the fourtalia) with unlimited views of the open sea.
- On Fellos beach there is To Steki tou Andrea for flavorful traditional dishes in a lovely courtyard with mulberry trees.
- Devoted meat-lovers will adore the chops and the goat baked in parchment at Kossis taverna in Ano Fellos.
