Andros island is situated in the northern part of the Cyclades island complex and it is the second largest in size. Its difference from the rest of the Cyclades is that it has a fairly rich flora, mainly due to the water streams that run affluently above and below the surface of its green land. The presence of trees is rare in the Cyclades, so it is this distinct characteristic of Andros combined with its aristocratic aura, that distinguish it from the other islands of the complex. 

Culture & Nature at its best!

Andros island correlates to a noble civilization and culture. It used to be the strongest naval power internationally and, hence, the fatherland of numerous captains and merchants. Later on, it became the favourite destination for known ship owners and businessmen, who preferred it for its elegant and classy qualities, as well as, its noble past.  

Besides its fairly rich flora, Andros island is famous for its aristocratic cultural heritage, as well as, for its wealthy naval tradition and very often people refer to it as “the floating cultural museum”. Important specimens of Mansion Houses and other buildings of exquisite architecture can be spotted especially in Chora - the island's capital town -.

Andros has a distinguishable architectural style which consists of an amalgam of the usual Aegean styled housing, plenty of neoclassical buildings and a considerable number of Venetian towers which altogether yield an image of elevated aesthetics at all directions. Walking the streets of Chora, you will come across the admirable pigeon houses which definitely complement the local architecture.

As far as its geographical location is concerned, Andros island is very close to Athens and this renders it a very appealing destination, both for a long holiday but also for a short-break from the city. More specifically, ferries from the port of Rafina in Athens, will take you to the island within just 2 hours and, thankfully, the schedules are fairly adequate. 

Discovering the island

The island of Andros conceivably sets the boundaries between the north and the south of the Aegean Sea. Ferries will have to get passed the Cape of Kafireas - also called the Cavo d' Oro - which is a marine passage that usually manifests very strong winds and you will certainly experience some discomfort at that point of your trip. Nevertheless, soon enough the beautiful landscapes of Andros will reward you for your brief patience!

Getting closer and closer to the island, the port of Gavrio is one of the first images that will captivate your view. Gazing up, you will see the Aegean styled white houses, a string of shops, the main road by the port and the imposing light house. The village of Batsi with its small fisherman’s cove is accessible within a 10 minute drive and it is considered one of the most attractive resorts on the island, offering a sandy beach appropriate both for families and for water sports. This is, also, where you can catch the local boats that will take you to most of the beaches which are hard to access otherwise.

Among the settlements situated on the southern side of the island, Korthi bay is worthy of your visit which, in essence, it will enchant you with its picturesque landscapes. Its long sandy beach is especially preferred by surfers due to the strong winds in the area.

Undoubtedly, the Chora of Andros plays a protagonist role on the island and will attract your attention with its incomparable beauty and its aristocratic aura. Enjoy taking endless strolls in its numerous alleys, shop in its exquisite boutiques and feel free to indulge to the island’s gastronomy at any of the uncountable restaurants and tavernas at your disposal. 

Your selected destination will reward you generously in terms of the natural beauty that correlates to a Greek island and large doses of history and civilization. There are numerous beaches of all types to suit your tastes, most of them well organized and ideal for families, as well as a fair number of solitary and untouched beaches for quiet swims and hours of absolute tranquillity. The island of Andros offers magnificent settings for scuba-diving, snorkelling, sailing, water ski and other activities that involve the joys of the sea.

At this point, we must also mention that the island of Andros offers alternative activities in its interior, such as hiking. You will find a sign-posted network which includes 12 stone-paved paths and other routes which stretch over85 km in total and will walk you through the historical and cultural specimens of the island.

Local tradition

Traditions are kept strong and they are manifested through various local feasts and traditional festivals. The island’s festive calendar lists numerous chances for the visitor to witness traditional folk dancing and feasts with live music that will last all night long! One of the most important religious dates for a feast, is the one dedicated to Virgin Mary “Theoskepastos” which occurs two Sundays before Easter Sunday.

Traditionalism is also manifested through the island’s cuisine for which locally sourced products are used. You must definitely try the sweet “pambiloni” which is made of a citrus fruit cultivated only in Andros, as well as any of the hand-made marmalades, liqueurs, cookies, thyme honey from the area of Agios Petros, the locally produced olive oil and vinegar, the local cheeses and the delicious “kaltsounia” pies.

To wrap it all up, Andros island will bewilder you with its green landscapes, its crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches, its mouth-watering flavours and its unique town, the Chora. What will win your hearts though, is its incredible aristocratic finesse.