The aristocratic Chora, the most beautiful beaches, the trails, the lush nature and everything that will make your holidays in Andros unforgettable.
What is it that makes Andros unique? Is it the beautiful Chora with its splendid neoclassical mansions? Is it the lush nature and rushing waters that make you forget you're on a Cycladic island? Or the sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters? It's all these together and much more that make the second-largest island of the Cyclades a destination that can offer you unforgettable holidays.
Just two hours from the port of Rafina, Andros is an island with many faces, unlike any other Cycladic island. There are many reasons to visit Andros and below we've gathered the best.
Exploring the stately Chora
Andros Town (Chora) is one you won't forget. Aristocratic, with splendid captains' mansions, unique listed buildings, beautiful churches, and cobbled lanes. Known as the birthplace of famed shipowners and captains, it's built on a small peninsula that seems to cut the sea in two and doesn't look like a Cycladic capital at all.
At the entrance to the harbor stands the Tourlitis Lighthouse, a unique sight as it's the only lighthouse in Europe built atop 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 Chora's peninsula, on an islet connected to Chora by a stone arched bridge, you'll see the remains of the Venetian castle. Opposite the castle lies the much-photographed square dominated by the Statue of the Unknown Sailor, dedicated to all seafarers who lost their lives at sea.
Along Chora's central marble-paved street you'll admire the Andros Club, Girokomeio Square, as well as the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. It's also worth dedicating time to the interesting museums, such as the Archaeological, the Maritime, and the Museum of Folklore and Christian Art. For art lovers there's always the internationally renowned Museum of Contemporary Art, which hosts fascinating exhibitions every summer.
A stroll through the villages
Stenies is the closest village to the island's Chora. It's aristocratic, with the residences of shipowners and politicians, its grand houses spreading amphitheatrically across the hillside. It's worth seeing the sturdy 17th-century Bistis-Mouvelas tower, the stone Lion bridge, and the now-ruined old factory.
Menites is a village in the heart of the island that will immerse you in the place's rare beauty. In the village square there are many fountains with running water that create a magical picture, together with the centuries-old trees and the stream that crosses the village.
A stroll in Batsi, especially after sunset, is a must, since this is where the island's nightlife beats. Cosmopolitan without losing its tradition, it's built by the sea, with an organized beach, many hotels, bars, and tavernas.
Don't forget to visit Korthi, which is a whole island on its own! The tower houses, dovecotes, watermills and stone bridges at Dipotamata, the neoclassical houses on Ormos Korthiou's waterfront, and the old monasteries, such as Tromarchiani, are enchanting.
Beaches for every taste
Andros offers an incredible array of beaches. Tis Grias to Pidima in Korthi is the island's most famous beach. A long, narrow stone rock rises from the crystal waters and steals the show. Achla, on the island's eastern side, is for many the most beautiful beach on Andros. Fine sand, small white pebbles, enchanting waters, plane trees right up to the sand, and a little river that ends on the beach. Access is by boat departing from Chora's port or via a dirt road that only 4x4 vehicles can negotiate.
Among Andros's most popular beaches are Nimporio and Paraporti next to Chora, Agios Petros, Chrysi Ammos, Kypri, and Batsi.
Also note the wild beach of Vori with the striking shipwreck to the east, Zorkos and Vitali on the northeastern side, Apothikes and Chalkolimionas in the center of the island's west coast.
The trails of Andros
A hallmark of Andros is the presence of many ancient paths, which traverse the island almost across 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 island's mountain ranges, passing through landscapes of great natural beauty and important monuments.
For avid explorers
Foros Cave is one of the island's surprises. It's located in the village of Aladinou on Andros, just outside Chora. It's 4.5-5 million years old and consists of five chambers, four of which are visitable. The stalactites, stalagmites, hanging rocks, and colorful formations offer a unique spectacle.
Another wonderful sight you shouldn't miss is the Pythara waterfalls. The Pythara ravine is in Apoikia, ten minutes from the road via a smooth, vegetation-filled path. It's also called, according to tradition, the 'Fairy Place'. Its abundant, crystal-clear waters create an amazing habitat, forming small waterfalls and pools where aquatic life thrives.
In the Korthi area the Castle of Faneromeni (Upper Castle) dominates. Climb the steep steps through the ruins to enjoy an unparalleled view of the Aegean.
ACCOMMODATION
Chora
- Camara Suites: Housed in a historic Andros mansion with 800 years of history, this distinctive boutique stay blends the island's authentic architectural heritage with modern comfort and serene luxury.
- Egli: Historic hotel housed in a two-story neoclassical mansion in the heart of Chora. The 9 rooms combine modern amenities with neoclassical decor.
Menites
- Armonia Resort: Complex in the village of Menites, set in lush greenery, with stunning views of the wooded slope with centuries-old oaks.
Batsi
- Etesian Villas Andros: In a tranquil location at the entrance to Batsi, the complex comprising four villas combines comfort, privacy, and breathtaking views.
- The Royal Blue Andros: A stone's throw from picturesque Batsi, this brand-new property offers stunning sea views and high-level amenities that promise an unforgettable escape.
- Androck Heaven Retreat: Very close to Batsi, these villas are entirely stone-built, constructed with the island's local stone on a slope that ensures every visitor an uninterrupted, unobstructed view of the endless blue.
- Albatross Studios: Right in front of Batsi's sandy beach, in the center of the traditional settlement, these newly built rooms are equipped with all modern comforts.
Fellos Beach
- Alasthas Beach Houses: Set in a quiet seafront location, 300 m from Fellos beach, it features 7 fully equipped apartments that blend Cycladic character with modern aesthetics.
Korthi Bay
- Nicolas Hotel Apartments: Built amphitheatrically in a stunning spot on Andros with views of the endless blue, it harmoniously combines the simplicity of the island landscape with modern luxury.
FOOD
Chora
- Endochora: On Chora's main pedestrian street, Endochora has managed to stand out as a quality dining choice, with original, carefully prepared dishes.
- Ta Skalakia: In a lane perpendicular to the main pedestrian street, this restaurant serves local specialties and other traditional dishes.
- Nonas: Meze eatery for seafood bites by the sea.
Batsi
- OTI KALO: Tasty dishes from Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, made with local products, are served with wonderful views of the picturesque bay.
- Mastello: Just a few meters from the port in Batsi, it serves contemporary seafood cuisine that places special emphasis on local products.
Fellos Beach
- Steki tou Andrea: Combine your swim with good food at a taverna that serves tasty traditional dishes in a cool courtyard with mulberry trees.
Ano Fellos
- Kossis: Devoted meat-eaters will love the chops and the goat baked in parchment at this famed Kossis taverna-farm.
Aprovato
- Aegean Balcony: Tasty traditional dishes (be sure to try the fourtalia) with unlimited views of the open sea.
Korthi Bay
- Sea Satin Nino: The creative dishes of Dimitris Giginis are served in a lovely square on the pedestrian street of Korthi Bay.
