Andros: The hidden treasure of Greece

Andros is not a typical Cycladic island and differs from the others primarily in its elegant architecture, but also in the wild greenery within the island and beautiful beaches. The island of Andros is about a hundred kilometers away from Athens and it takes a little over an hour by boat to reach it from the Greek capital. This northernmost island of the Cyclades can be reached by ferry from the port of Rafina, and during the summer season, Andros is also connected to Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, and Santorini.

The island is rich in geographical contrasts and combines a dry Cycladic landscape with rich vegetation and abundant water. It is the only Cycladic island whose spring waters become rivers that flow throughout the year and flow into the sea.

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Andros is a relatively large island, but only about 10,000 people live on it, in three major cities. For a long time, Andros was a rich island and therefore did not depend on tourism, and even today it is not occupied by tourists. There are mostly Greeks, Italians, and French who come here to enjoy the excellent food and the beauty of the sea.

The picturesque capital of the island, the town of Andros or Chora, is located in the east between the sandy beaches of Neiborio and Paraporti. The center of Andros is a specific combination of Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture. The combination of houses, narrow streets, museums, and beaches on stone paths, makes this city an unforgettable destination for all lovers of art and architecture.

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The port city of Gavrio is located in the western part of the island and from there all ferries arrive and depart. Here, visitors can find numerous restaurants and taverns, souvenir shops, banks, car rental agencies, and even a supermarket. Gavrio is also a good starting point for touring the beaches and other villages on the island. On the hill above Gavri, there is the tower of Agios Petros. It is believed to have been built in the 3rd or 4th century BC and is still quite well preserved.

Even those who want a more dynamic vacation - can find it in Batsi, which is a ten-minute drive from Gavri. Batsi is a former fishing village, but due to its liveliness, beautiful waterfront, and beautiful sandy beach, it has become the most popular tourist destination on Andros.

Post by: Rinna James