andros

Information about Andros island Greece

androsAndros is the northernmost island of the Cyclades archipelago in Greece and is located not far from the coasts of Attica in the west and of Evia to the north. Andros is a popular choice for weekending Greeks as it’s a short hop from the mainland and on a good ferry route.

The island of Andros has a character all of its own, if a little one-dimensional. Variety may not be the island’s long suit but it has plenty of good points.

It has a popular tourist beach resort at Batsi, another less popular at the fairly humdrum capital of Hora and the rest is remote beaches scattered around the coast.

Hora is located on a spectacular finger of rock with sea lapping the cliffs on either side and the main street dotted with cafes, restaurants, shops and galleries.

andros-islandNatural springs give rise to lush green valleys nestled between majestic mountain peaks. The best of Andros island’s beaches can be spectacular – but they are all relatively remote.An extensive network of donkey paths criss-cross the interior, making this an ideal destination for hikers. Although some paths can be choked with scrub and thorns, many are well maintained.

Andros is easy to reach from mainland Greece as ferries leave Rafina every day and Andros is usually their first port of call.Andros is just a short ferry ride from the mainland so it’s popular with Greeks and many have holiday homes here.

Andros is the second largest of the Greek Cyclades Islands, located in the Aegean Sea 30 kilometres south east of the mainland port of Rafina.

andros-lighthouseThe island has been largely overlooked by international tourists but is a favourite weekend getaway for wealthy Athenians, many of whom own villas here.

You won’t find the wild party scene of Mykonos or Santorini on this island but if it’s lush green valleys, waterfalls and mountain springs you’re after you’ve come to the right place.

The island is a two-hour ferry hop from Rafina, the mainland’s second major port (an hour’s bus ride north east of Athens). Take a hydrofoil to cut your journey time by half. There are also regular ferry and fast boat connections to many of the neighbouring islands including Mykonos, Syros, Tinos and Paros.

This is one of the most fertile of all the Cycladic islands which are generally characterised by their somewhat dry and barren landscapes. Andros is awash with mountain streams which tumble down towards the coast. The plentiful water supply has led to the cultivation of olives, figs, citrus fruit and vines.

Reasons to Visit Andros

Andros has its own irresistible charm and is one of the most popular destinations as it is very close to Athens. But it is also the island with many beauties, some obvious and others hidden like secret treasures, which one deserves to discover. The island is a hikers’ paradise, a place where you can ramble for hours along the mountain footpaths, stopping at a riverside taverna for inexpensive Greek fare while you listen to the sound of the nightingales without another tourist in sight.

Andros has 110 kilometres of coastline with no less than 300 sandy beaches, most of which are untouched by tourism. Some can only be reached by small boat or moped. The island only has one major resort area at Batsi, eight kilometres south of the port of Gavrio where the ferries and Flying Dolphins arrive.

batsi-andros Batsi is the place to head for if you want all the usual tourist paraphernalia – watersports, nightlife, accommodation and eateries all in full measure.

Andros Town, on the east side of the island, is an enchanting place on a long, narrow peninsula – more pricey than Batsi because this is where wealthy ship owning families bed down for the night. Its imposing neoclassical 19th century mansions, once the homes of well-heeled sea captains, lend the island capital an air of old-style elegance.

The island offers museums to visit, historic sites to explore and a network of country roads and footpaths via which you can roam through the pine forests and mulberry woods to find pretty inland villages and mountain springs. Andros is the only Cycladic island with a source of natural spring water which is bottled and exported throughout Greece.

The snaking dry stone walls and ancient dovecotes which pepper the island are among its most distinctive features. The elaborately decorated dovecotes were introduced by the Venetians who held sway here in the 13th century. Further evidence of the Venetian occupation can be seen in the ruins of the castle, built around 1220, which occupies the small island at the end of the Andros Town peninsula.

Climate and weather

Andros is in the north Cyclades group of islands and enjoys a typical east-Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers.

From June to September average daily temperatures are 26°C. May and October are a little cooler with occasional showers although rain rarely lasts long.

Winters on Andros are mild and wet, with most of the rain falling in November and December. Winter temperatures average 8°C although Andros can get winter snow.

The climate of Andros is characterized by mild, rainy winters and warm, mostly dry summers. Due to the topography, there are considerable climatic differences depending on the altitude and orientation. Only the places at lower altitudes show the typical Aegean climate of a summer dry period lasting several months.

The annual average temperature is 18.0 °C. Due to the prevailing winds from the north-west to the north-east from the end of July to the beginning of September, the average summer temperatures are 25.0 °C in July. Average winter temperatures in January reach 12.0 °C. Frost days are rare, averaging eight per year.

Due to the island’s altitude and its northwest-southeast orientation, the annual rainfall is remarkable compared to other Cycladic islands. In the coastal towns they are on average 450-500 mm, in the mountain regions often over 900 mm.

Snow falls almost every year from January to February in the villages of the Kouvara-Petalo mountain region. Rare events are snowfalls at lower altitudes, such as on the Gavrionisia in the winter of 1990–1991. In the summer months, the dry and cool Meltemi combined with evaporation leads to local cloud formation and increased humidity in the Kouvara-Petalo mountain region.

When to Go

The best time to visit Andros, like many of the Cycladic islands in Greece, depends largely on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and activities you are interested in. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Andros. The weather starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). The island begins to bloom, making it a perfect time for hiking and exploring the lush landscapes and wildflowers. Tourist numbers are still low, so you can enjoy the sights without the crowds. The sea might still be a bit cold for swimming, especially in early spring.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Andros, with July and August being the busiest months. The weather is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures often climbing above 30°C (86°F). This is the best time for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, as the sea is warm and welcoming. However, be prepared for higher prices and more crowded spots, especially on popular beaches and in main towns. If you enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, summer is an excellent time to visit.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn sees a decrease in tourist numbers, making it a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. The weather remains warm in early autumn, with temperatures gradually cooling down from September to November. The sea can still be warm enough for swimming in September and sometimes even in early October. This season is also ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, as the landscape turns golden and the temperatures are comfortable.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Andros is mild compared to northern Europe, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). While it’s not the best time for sunbathing or swimming, winter offers a unique perspective of the island. The crowds are minimal, and the prices are lower. It’s a good time for cultural exploration, visiting museums, and experiencing the local way of life. Keep in mind that some restaurants and tourist facilities may be closed or have reduced hours during this off-season period.

Geography

The island has an area of ​​374 square kilometers, a maximum length of 39.8 kilometers, a maximum width of 16.7 kilometers, a coastline length of 177 kilometers and a population, as of the 1981 census, of 9020 inhabitants. It is the second largest Cycladic island (after Naxos) and its port, Gavrio, is 2 hours (1 hour by speedboat) from the port of Rafina.

Its beaches are generally rocky and it has several sheltered bays: Mikrogiali, Vitali, Kastro, Melissa, Korthio, Ai-Yiannis tis Kremmides, Gavrio, Batsios, Chalkolimniona, Plaka…

Small rocky islands surround it: Gavrionisia, Kapitita, Makedona, Tourlitis, Theotokos, Plati, Lagonisi, Prasouda, the Castle of the country. The distant Kalogeros is also related to Andros, fear and terror for the old sailors.

Cape Kampanos is the northernmost tip of the island, while Cape Steno (Avlon) is the southernmost. On the eastern coasts we find Capes Frygelo or Kato Kosmos, Cape Akamatis, Cape of Gria. Artemis to the north, Strogylos to the west.

The land of Andros is covered by continuous mountain masses-mountain ranges with steep slopes and between them gorges and ravines and lush valleys with lion trees, figs, orange trees, lemon trees, vines and abundant running waters, which usually end in soft sandy beaches.

In the northern part is formed the mountainous area of ​​Agioi Saranda (altitude 716), in the center Mount Petalo (altitude 994). To the south extends the Katafygi-Gerakones mountainous area and even further south the mountainous massif of Rachi.

In the northern part of the island, the area of ​​Arni has dense vegetation and abundant water. The southern mountain slopes of Petalos have water and fertile soil (Livadia Valley, Pitrovos Field).

After Gerakones is the valley of Korthio. The island has many streams and abundant spring water, since the geological composition of the subsoil favors the retention of rainwater and snow. Many of them, rich in mineral components, have healing properties like Sariza and Pigi.

Economy

The economy of Andros, like many Greek islands, relies heavily on tourism, agriculture, and fishing.

Tourism plays a significant role in Andros’ economy. The island attracts visitors who seek its natural beauty, picturesque villages, historical sites, and stunning beaches. The tourism sector supports various businesses, including hotels, restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and tour operators.

Andros has a long agricultural and farming tradition still plays a part in the local economy. Olive groves, citrus orchards, vineyards, and vegetable gardens can be found across the island. Local products such as olive oil, wine, honey, and traditional food items contribute to the agricultural sector.

Fishing has been a traditional occupation for Andros’ residents due to its coastal location. Fishing provides employment opportunities and supplies the island with fresh seafood. The local fish market and fish tavernas benefit from both the local community and tourism.

Andros has a long history of seafaring and a strong presence in the Greek shipping industry. Many shipping companies and ship management firms have their roots on the island. Shipping activities, including crew management, ship ownership, and maritime services, contribute to Andros’ economy.

Andros has a thriving arts and cultural scene. The island is home to many artists, writers, and musicians who draw inspiration from its natural landscapes and unique character. Cultural events, art exhibitions, and festivals attract visitors and contribute to the local economy.

Various services such as transportation, retail, banking, healthcare, and education also contribute to Andros’ economy. These services cater to the needs of both residents and tourists, supporting the island’s infrastructure and livelihoods.

History and Culture

Andros, a charming island in Greece, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture that captivates visitors from around the world. Steeped in ancient mythology and tradition, Andros is dotted with archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into its fascinating past.

The island’s culture is deeply influenced by its maritime heritage, with many locals traditionally working in shipping. This seafaring background has shaped everything from the local cuisine to the architecture of the charming villages scattered across Andros.

The presence and contribution of Andros was important in ancient times, thanks to its material and spiritual wealth, but above all, even then, thanks to its naval power.

There are very few cultural finds of the Stone and Bronze Age, which certify the existence of a prehistoric settlement on the island. We derive our knowledge from mythological traditions. The named settler and first king of the island was Andros. Later it was settled by the Pelasgians.

During historical times, the island was inhabited by Iones, who may have come from Athens, as Thucydides mentions.  

Art lovers will be delighted to discover Andros’ thriving artistic scene, with numerous museums showcasing contemporary and traditional works of art. The island also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and exhibitions celebrating local talent.

Visitors can immerse themselves in Andros’ history by exploring its impressive Venetian castles, ancient towers, and Byzantine churches scattered across the picturesque landscape. Each stone tells a story of times gone by, adding to the allure of this enchanting destination.

Villages

Chora of Andros

andros-chora The island capital of Andros Chora, known locally as Hora, is like a white blanket throen over a long, narrow 400 metre long promontory that ends at a small rock islet.

On the islet are the ruins of a Venetian fortress connected to Hora by a picturesque, if precipitous, stone arch that was rebuilt in 1956 after the original was destroyed in a storm.

Further out to sea is the Tourlitis lighthouse, impressive on its large rock. The town is bisected by the the long traffic-free street of Georgiou Empirikou, dotted with shops and cafes and small artists’ studios. Three quarters of the way along is the main square with cafe tables set out around a fountain beneath the dappled shade of a huge plane tree.

Hora boasts several large neoclassical buildings, evidence of the wealth of former citizens. The andros Archaeological Museum was founded in 1981 and includes a statue of Hermes of Andros – a first century copy of the original discovered on the coast at Paleopoli.

Most unusual is the Gouldandris family’s Museum of Modern Art with works by Greek artists as well as eminent modern masters such as Picasso, Braque and Matisse. Nearby is the much photographed chapel of Agia Thakassini built on an offshore rock.

A Maritime Museum has opening hours that suit everyone but visitors while a large slabbed square is dominated by a bronze statue to the Unknown Sailor, donated by Russia. Wealthy donors also fund the Kairoa Library which has some 3,000 rare titles.

To the south-west is the pretty village of Menites and its marble fountains with lion head spouts while at Apoika, to the north-west, is the Sariza spring where mineral water is bottled and exported throughout Greece. At nearby Stenies, popular with wealthy Greeks, is an attractive beach called Gialia, backed by eucalyptus trees and a good fish taverna.

andros-chora

Batsi

Batsi is one of the places of Andros with its own special beauty. It is a traditional fishing village, located 8 kilometers from Gavrio and 27 kilometers from Chora.
Its central beach is sheltered from the wind with fine golden sand and is fully organized.

andros-batsi Batsi is particularly popular and has been a well-known tourist resort since the 70s. However, it also carries its own legend, according to which fairies used to live in Piso Vrisi.

The main road curves around the bay behind the beach lined with hotels, apartments, tavernas and shops with a large central car park on a piece of wasteland.

The buildings behind the eastern end of Batsi beach have a first-floor gallery filled with taverna tables that overlook the main beach.

The water is shallow and safe for children, so Batsi beach is a good spot for families. There is more shade at the western end where tamarisks run between the beach and the main road.

It is worth visiting the monastery of Zoodochos Pigi or Agia – as the locals call it – the largest monastery of Andros, with a magnificent view of the Aegean.

The church of the monastery is of Byzantine style and houses remarkable portable icons of the 14th and 16th centuries. The monastery houses a church museum and a small collection of prehistoric tools. Also, the picturesque villages of Katakoilos and Arni, with the springs and watermills.

The beaches around Batsi are ideal for swimming. Choose its cove crowned by the Golden Coast or head south for more secluded beaches. Visit bays of amazing beauty, such as Stivari, Agia Marina and Agios Kyprianos. If you love sports, in Batsi you can go windsurfing and water skiing.

batsi

Gavrio

gavrio The main island port of Gavrio with its beautiful location is located in the northwest of the island. Beaches are located both north and south, but visitors will need transportation. From Gavrio begins the road that leads to the idyllic village of Ano Gavrio Cafes and taverns and shops line the street behind the waterfront.

There are several accommodation units and Gavrio it’s a useful place to stay because is a hub between the north and the south of the island. The surrounding hills are very beautiful and there are good walking paths in the area.

It is worth visiting the picturesque mountain village of Ammolochos, the capital of the region during the Ottoman period, and the agricultural Vitali, with its wide sandy beach and a small stream that ends at the beach – following its course you will come across small caves with colourful stalactites.

gavrio

To the south of Gavrio are three of the most beautiful beaches of Andros like Agios Petros, Kypri and Xrysi Ammos, which have equipment for water sports. You will find a clear sea and a nice sandy beach 7 km northwest of Gavrio, in the bay of Kato Fellos.
There is also a campsite in Gavrio, with a capacity of 63 places. If you have a boat, you will moor at the port of Gavrio where you can refuel and water. On summer evenings the traffic in the port is quite large in the noisy bars, while shops with Greek music are usually open at the weekend.

gavrio-andros

Korthi

korthi-andros Korthi is the southernmost village of Andros. The area of ​​Korthi is surrounded by beautiful picturesque villages with rich folklore and archaeological monuments.

Among them is Kokhylou with the Castle of Faneromeni, the traditional settlement of Ammonaklio and the medieval Mousiona and Agia Triada in Korthi, which was the first pre-revolutionary school in Andros and has valuable relics.

Near Korthi are the picturesque villages of Rogos, Episkopeio, Aidonia, Korthi and Mousionas. Due to the many paths, the area is suitable for hiking and walking getaways. Dipotamata is a river of great natural beauty, about 7 kilometers long.

The ravine is crossed by a wide paved cobblestone road which until 1950 was the only road connecting Chora with Korthi.

Menites

menites-androsMenites is a beautiful picturesque village with a long history. It is built in a verdant area, at the foot of Mount Petalo, at an altitude of 200 meters, 5 km southwest of the capital of Andros. The legend says that its name comes from the Maenads, due to the many running waters, which justify the existence of a sanctuary of Dionysus.

According to popular tradition, large Dionysian celebrations were held in Menites. Characteristic are the “Fountains of Dionysus” the fountains with the heads of lions, from which wine is said to have flowed.
In the settlement there are several accommodation options, while among the attractions of the area, the springs of Dionysos, which spring from marble lion heads, and the church of Panagia tis Vergi stand out.

menites Aidonia

bridge-at-aidonia The main road south of Korthi meanders through several villages along a wide, green and picturesque valley where the well-heeled set up home when Ormos was a thriving commercial port serving ships heading for Istanbul and Smyrna.

There are many fine houses to admire as well as many dovecotes and chapels. The village of Aidonia has a beautiful fountain with a vaulted roof and some flamboyant marble decoration.

At Moskionas there is a delightful church and at Agia Triada a complex of ancient stone houses, built in the traditional island style, but which appear to be abandoned.

The road rises up into the hills at Apatia where small villages like Megalo Chorio, Morakes and Tzeo offer some pretty scenery. This is one of the best places to view the terraced fields that ripple down hillsides almost everywhere in Andros.

Along the valley floor are some abandoned windmills and above Tzeo is one of the best examples of a stone bridge on the island.

Aprovato

aprovato-androsAprovato is a beautiful village of Andros with lots of greenery and running water, built on the mountain. It is located at a distance of 3.5 km from Batsi and offers a magnificent view towards the sea.

The village has many old houses and pigeon houses. Here was the ancient city of Ypsili, ancient remains of which came to light in the early 1980s. It is located on a rocky hill with ravines to the north and south that lead to the sea. It extends over 60 acres and the wall surrounding its citadel is preserved in several places, as are the remains of a temple in the center of the citadel, buildings, as well as an abundance of movable finds.

The excavation yielded the most important findings, valuable for the Geometric and Archaic era in the Cyclades and wider in the Aegean. The sanctuary, in the center of the acropolis, probably dedicated to the goddess Demeter, was founded in the 8th century BC. and continued its operation at least until the second quarter of the 5th century BC.
The region of Aprovato maintains the most residents in North Andros. They are engaged in animal husbandry and agriculture and feed Batsi with their products.

aprovato

Top Attractions in Andros

As you explore the picturesque island of Andros, you’ll find a wealth of top attractions that are sure to captivate your senses. Start by visiting the stunning Archaeological Museum in Chora, where you can delve into the island’s rich history through its impressive collection of artifacts.

For nature lovers, a visit to the refreshing waterfalls of Pythara is a must-see experience. The lush greenery and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Don’t miss out on exploring the beautiful villages scattered across Andros, each with its own unique charm and character. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers.

History buffs will appreciate a trip to the iconic Venetian Castle in Chora, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and surrounding landscapes. Immerse yourself in centuries-old architecture while soaking in breath taking vistas.

From ancient ruins to natural wonders and charming villages, Andros has something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to this enchanting Greek island.

Archaeological sites

The main archaeological sites of the island, dating from the Late Neolithic to the early Byzantine years, are Strofilas, Plaka, Mikrogiali, Vryokastro, Zagora, High, Paleopolis, Agios Petros Tower.
Many more places have yielded antiquities without including the monuments of the Byzantine years. These sites are located along the south-west coast of Andros, within Mikrogiali which is located at the north-east end of the island.

Not all sites were inhabited at the same time, but it seems, as stated in the research, that after the abandonment of one, another flourished, although in some cases there was parallel habitation.

Paleopolis

beach-in-paleoplisThe Ancient capital of Andros, as we know it from historical sources, is located in Paleopolis and extends from the top of the hill of Agios Dimitrios, where the acropolis is located, to the port now submerged in the sea.

Outside the strong, standing walls have been identified the eastern and western necropolis of the city with impressive funerary monuments. Residential remains, temples, baths and retaining walls have been identified within the walls

In the Agora of the city, which is made up of two towers, there is a gallery, streets and a building with a propylaea, which was built on top of older structures, but also a fountain that was incorporated into the luxurious basilica that was built in the 5th century. A.D.

Many inscriptions and important sculptures come from Paleopolis, many of which are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Chora, while others, equally important, as well as vessels, tools, jewelry and various objects can be admired in the Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis, which has been operating since 2003.

paleoplolis

Tower of Agios Petros

An impressive monument of Andros is the tower of Agios Petros which stands at a height of about 20 m., west of the village of Agios Petros. It was built during the 3rd-4th BC but the traces of its foundation are pre-historical.

It is one of the best-preserved ancient towers in Greece, with impressive architectural elements, built in the Hellenistic period. Its character seems to have been that of a fortified residence that supported productive activities in the surrounding area.

The Tower has at least five levels which can be reached by a spiral staircase. The Tower is topped by a dome which today, unfortunately, is partially destroyed.

tower of agios petros

Paleokastro

Paleokastro stands in the center of the area of Korthi with all the villages within easy reach. Paleokastro, and the legends associated with it, are closely intertwined with a historical road, which connected Korthi with Mesaria in medieval times.

On the entire route from Makrona to the Monastery of Panahrantou, or at a short distance on either side of this old road, very important archaeological finds have been identified and the existence of Paleokastro may be related to them.

In particular, rare tomb inscriptions from antiquity, early Christian sculptures, as well as sculptures dating back to particularly dark periods of the island’s Byzantine history have been identified. A period of time in which corresponding documents are scarce throughout the island of Andros.

Strofilas

The impressively large settlement of Strofilas for the Neolithic era, with findings that reveal a developed society with a need to ensure its defense and formed cult practices. A Late Neolithic settlement has also been identified on the hill of Vriokastro.

The conclusions from the ongoing excavation in the area  which first came to light twenty-five years ago, demonstrate not only that Strofilas it is the oldest city in Europe but also with a developed technology and culture, which overturns the theories about the Cycladic so far Bronze Age Civilization.

strofilas-andros

Zagora

ancient-zagora-andros The settlement of Ancient Zagora flourished in the geometric years, from 850 to 700 BC. A city in a fortress position, with a strong wall, a sanctuary and residential areas, with abundant finds exhibited in the Museum of Andros Town, it has proven to be very important for the study of geometric times and maritime contacts.

The ancient Zagora is one of the most important archaeological sites of Andros. An ancient settlement existed here from C10th-8th BC.
The settlement was protected by a strong wall of approximately 330′ long and10′ high.

The wall had a gate at the entrance to the settlement. Inside there is a temple that was built in C8th BC and was used until the Classical Years, although the settlement had been abandoned 300 years before.

The houses were built of stone and had roofs made of earth. Remains of this settlement can be seen in the Archaeological Museum at Hora as well as a model replica of the settlement.

Ypsili

Further north, in the area of ​​Aprovatou, there is the organized archaeological site of Alysa, which dates from the Geometric era to the beginning of the Classical period.

It has a strong wall with later repairs and reinforcements, a dense urban fabric and a sanctuary that was probably dedicated to Demeter and operated until almost the middle of the 5th century. e.g. His research gives very important results for the geometric and archaic era in the Cyclades.

Beaches

andros-beach Close to Chora, the most famous beaches are Neimporio, organized sandy beach, ideal for children and Paraporti with a nice sandy beach. In the northeast, the show is stolen by the beach at Achla, a large sandy beach, with access from a dirt road.

After Gavrio, the busiest beach is Chrysi Ammos (with fine golden sand, sunbeds and beach bar). The central beach of Batsi is cosmopolitan and organized, with beach bars and water sports, while in Korthi the central beach gathers a lot of people.

Mylos is ideal for windsurfing, while everyone will also pass by the famous beach of Tis Grias to Pidima with sand with the characteristic rock in the sea.

Nice beaches are also Plaka (on the way to Korthi, with a nice sandy beach and shade of trees), Apothikes, a secluded cove with sand, Kypri, in the northwest, with large rocks at its edges, Chalkolimionas, protected by winds, with sand and pebbles, while Agios Petros beach has a wide sandy beach and shallow waters.

What to see

Dovecotes of Andros

Dovecotes-of-Andros Although neighbouring Tinos is considered to have both more and better, there are still enough intricately designed dovecotes on Andros to make them a holiday island highlight.

Dovecotes are dotted all over the island and are a legacy of the Venetians who kept their doves for both sport and for meat.

If the dovecote towers on Andros are nowhere near as impressive as those on neighbouring Tinos, they are still very fine nevertheless.

Most are two-storey affairs; the upper part housing the doves and the lower is usually used as a storeroom.

Entrances for the doves were created by triangular arrangements of the slate-like schist stone that is found all over Andros.

The triangle motif is found everywhere on Andros island buildings as a decorative feature. On the quayside at Gavrio a dovecote has been turned into a tourist office.

Field walls of Andros

Field-walls-of-Andros Many older buildings on Andros are built from the island bedrock of crystallised schist which has been used in their construction, giving rise to some unique building methods.

This is nowhere more in evidence than in the walls that were built to contain the extensive terracing that creep up many of the steep hills across the island of Andros, a legacy of when the land was tilled by hundreds of small farming families.

Some liken the walling to works of art, while others think it a complicated mess. Large vertical slabs are often infilled with smaller, horizontally laid stones, giving the walls a stuttered, concertina look.

The technique in both interesting and effective as many of the walls, built on incredibly steep slopes, have lasted for centuries.

Where to stay

There are various accommodation units in Andros. Only two hours by boat from the port of Rafina, the island of Andros is a wonderful choice for a holiday, short or long, or even a short weekend getaway. Plenty of beaches, beach bars, deserted bays, tavernas with delicious snacks and picturesque villages.

In order to discover all of the above, it is of course important to arrange the matter of your stay. The seaside resort of Batsi is the liveliest, and with an excellent choice of restaurants, while Chora is the most authentic and romantic. A choice between these two villages will never be wrong!

Batsi for those who do not like to feel alone, and want all the services of the most pleasant seaside town. Kipri for those who cannot give up the beach, Chora for those who love the daily rhythms of Greece, Menites for those who love to stay cool in the evening, and dominate the island from the hills overlooking the sea.

Must-Try Foods in Andros

When visiting Andros, Greece, make sure to indulge in the delicious local cuisine that this island has to offer. One must-try food is “froutalia,” a traditional omelette made with potatoes and sausage, bursting with flavor. Another iconic dish is “souvlaki,” skewers of grilled meat served with pita bread and tzatziki sauce – a perfect meal for meat lovers. For seafood enthusiasts, sampling fresh octopus cooked in various ways is a must-do experience on the island. Don’t miss out on trying “kremmydopita,” an onion pie filled with local cheese and herbs, showcasing the unique flavors of Andros. To satisfy your sweet tooth, treat yourself to some loukoumades – deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Wash it all down with a glass of chilled ouzo or a refreshing frappe coffee for the complete culinary experience in Andros.

Getting Around Andros

Andros, being one of the Cyclades islands in Greece, offers various local transport options, albeit limited compared to larger cities or more tourist-heavy islands. The island’s transport system is tailored to meet the needs of both its residents and the visitors who come to enjoy its beautiful landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming villages.

Buses

The most common form of public transport on the island is buses. The local bus service in Andros connects the main port of Gavrio with other significant locations, including Batsi, Andros Town (Chora), and several beaches. The bus schedules are more frequent during the summer months to accommodate the higher number of tourists. However, it’s important to note that bus services might not cover all areas extensively, especially the more remote beaches and villages.

Taxis

Taxis are available and can offer a more direct and comfortable way to get around Andros. They can be found at taxi stands in major towns or called by phone. Taxis are a good option for late-night transport or for reaching destinations not covered by the bus service. It’s advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, especially for longer distances.

Car and Scooter Rentals

Renting a car or a scooter is a popular choice for visitors wanting the freedom to explore Andros at their own pace. Rental agencies are found in key areas, such as Gavrio, Batsi, and Chora. Having your own vehicle allows you to access more secluded areas, beautiful hidden beaches, and mountainous villages that public transport might not reach. Remember to bring your driving license, and be aware that during peak season, it’s best to book your rental in advance.

Hiking

For those who prefer eco-friendly and health-conscious ways to explore, Andros is a fantastic place to hike. The island boasts a network of marked trails that pass through breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and traditional villages. Hiking in Andros offers a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty at a slower pace.

Tips for Traveling to Andros

To make the most of your trip to Andros, it’s essential to plan ahead. Start by checking the ferry schedules from Athens as they can vary depending on the season. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

When packing for Andros, don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and a hat for protection against the Mediterranean sun. Comfortable shoes are also a must if you plan on exploring the island’s rugged terrain.

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Greek phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals and immersing yourself in the culture. Additionally, be respectful of local customs and traditions during your stay.

Transportation options on the island include rental cars, scooters, or public buses. Keep in mind that some attractions may require hiking or walking, so be prepared for some physical activity.

How to get to Andros

Andros has no airport but regular daily ferries sail from the mainland port of Rafina calling in at Andros, Tinos and Mykonos so visitors can fly either to Athens or to Mykonos and catch the ferry

By Ferry

The Rafina to Mykonos ferry route is currently operated by five ferry companies so there is no shortage of sailings on this popular route. There are normally three to four ferries sailing daily from Rafina and the sailing time to Andros is two to four hours depending on the ferry type.

Blue Star Ferries has a daily sailing from Rafina with a journey time of just over three hours while Fast Ferries has two sailings daily but with a sailing time 30 minutes longer.

One of the fastest is the Golden Star superferry leaves Rafina daily at 7.50am and arrives on Andros two hours later

Also operating fast ferry services to Andros are the nine weekly sailings by Sea Jets which take just two hours and the daily sailing by Hellenic Seaways which take another 15 minutes.

There ferry services sail on to Tinos and Mykonos so holiday visitors can fly to Mykonos and catch the return ferry to Rafina although this is a relatively expensive option.

Don’t be late for fast ferry connections as turnaround times on this route are notoriously short. They only take a few minutes and fast ferries don’t wait for stragglers.

The ferry link to Mykonos also opens up further travel as Mykonos is a major gateway to the Cyclades islands and even further afield.

There are no water taxis to the beaches or round island trips on Andros, although it is possible to hire a boat in the larger resorts.

By Air

Most visitors fly to Athens International Airport (ATH) then catch a bus to Rafina in order to hop on one of the regular daily ferries.

Athens International is located about 27 kilometres east of Athens and buses leave regularly for Rafina from just outside the airport terminal opposite the Sofitel Hotel. There are usually about 14 buses daily from 4.50am to 10.15pm with a journey time of 30 to 50 minutes depending on traffic

Take care to catch an airport bus on the way back or you end up in Athens city. Athens city buses leave from the main Rafina Square, airport buses from the port road at the seaward end of the square.

You can also take a taxi to Rafina from the pick-up points outside airport exits two and three and the journey takes about 30-40 minutes.

Some tourists choose to fly to Mykonos International Airport (JMK) and catch the Mykonos to Rafina ferry.