9-DAY SELF-GUIDED INN-TO-INN WALKING HOLIDAYS

Trekking “Andros Route” Trail

Experience a unique trekking experience

Discover Andros: A Hidden Gem in the Cyclades

Andros, the second-largest island in the Cyclades, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and well-preserved trails, Andros stands out from its arid neighbors. The island’s unique terrain features steep mountains, verdant valleys, cascading waterfalls, and ancient terraced hillsides. The highest peak, Mount Petalon, rises to 1,000 meters, offering breathtaking views over the Aegean Sea.

Andros boasts a network of over 300 kilometers of historic footpaths, originally used as the main transportation routes before the advent of motor vehicles. Today, around 180 kilometers of these trails have been restored and waymarked according to European standards, making the island a haven for walkers of all levels. These paths wind through diverse landscapes, connecting picturesque villages, ancient monasteries, and idyllic beaches. The trails vary in difficulty, offering something for everyone, from strolls to more challenging hikes.

The Andros Route: A Leading Quality Trail

The crown jewel of Andros’ trail network is the Andros Route, a 100-kilometer long-distance hiking trail certified by the European Ramblers Association as a “Leading Quality Trail/Best of Europe.” This prestigious certification highlights its exceptional maintenance, waymarking, and natural and cultural features. The Andros Route offers hikers the opportunity to traverse the island from north to south, immersing themselves in its stunning landscapes and authentic local culture.

Trekking Program Overview

The trekking program and walks we recommend closely follow the renowned Andros Route, celebrated for its outstanding quality and diverse landscapes. However, as some trail exits do not naturally conclude in towns or villages with accommodation options, we have carefully adjusted the routes to create a seamless inn-to-inn walking holiday. Each day concludes at a new destination, providing a rich and varied trekking experience.

This program is designed for experienced hikers who are prepared for longer walks—up to 20 kilometers per day—and are comfortable with some steep sections. It offers an immersive journey through the most captivating parts of Andros, combining the island’s natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and traditional hospitality.

- Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
- Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (some steep parts, long-distance routes, suitable for hikers with reasonable fitness /10-20 km, 4-6 hours walking per day)
- Trekking Style: Inn-to-inn (linear walks with daily luggage transfers)
- Customization: Tailored programs available, including center-based, two-base, or three-base options with circular or linear walks.
- Inclusions: Accommodation BB, luggage transfers, all on-land transfers, ferry tickets, welcome meal, and 24-hour support.
- Walker’s Pack: Detailed maps, digital guides, and technical descriptions of each route. Andros HIking Book, Travel Guide of Andros with recommendations and tips.

Itinerary

DAY 1 |
Arrival in Andros
- Arrive at Gavrio port, where you’ll be welcomed by your local contact. After a transfer to your accommodation, you’ll receive a briefing about the island, trails, and your trekking program, along with your “Walker’s Pack.”
- Highlights: Orientation, preparation, and introduction to Andros with a welcome dinner
- No trekking on this day.
- Overnight: Gavrio
DAY 2 |
North Andros -Froussei Valley to Gavrio
- Begin in the lush Froussei Valley, following the riverbed past ancient watermills and charming stone constructions. Climb to Amolochos village, where panoramic sea views await, before descending to Gavrio harbor.
- Distance: 15.5 km | Walking Time: 5.5–6 hrs
- Terrain: Mixed cobblestone paths, dirt tracks, and rocky sections.
- Overnight : Gavrio
- Highlights: Froussei Valley, Amolochos village, stunning coastal views.
DAY 3 |
North West Andros – Gavrio to Batsi
- Depart from Gavrio and visit the impressive Hellenistic Tower of St. Peter. Continue to the serene Monastery of Agia, perched in the hills, before descending through olive groves and forest paths to Batsi.
- Distance: 10 km | Walking Time: 3–3.5 hrs
- Terrain: Moderate paths with some steep sections.
- Highlights: Ancient ruins, Monastery of Agia, seaside charm of Batsi.
- Overnight: Batsi
DAY 4 |
West to Central Andros – Batsi to Menites
- Walk the Venetian “Fardia Strada” trail, enjoying views of the Aegean as you traverse the mountains. Stop at Pitrofos to visit the Olive Oil Museum, then continue to Menites, known for its lush greenery and ancient fountains.
- Distance: 16 km | Walking Time: 5.5–6 hrs
- Terrain: Long and moderate-to-difficult paths.
- Highlights: Fardia Strada, Olive Oil Museum, Menites’ famous springs.
- Overnight: Menites
DAY 5 |
Central to South Andros Menites to Ormos Korthiou (via Gerakonas)
- Ascend to the Monastery of Panachrados, a working monastery rich in history. Cross the rural landscape of Vouni village and continue through traditional settlements to the picturesque Ormos Korthiou.
- Distance: 12 km | Walking Time: 5 hrs
- Terrain: Steep ascents and descents with cobbled paths and dirt trails.
- Highlights: Panachrados Monastery, village of Vouni, coastal vistas.
- Overnight: Korthi
DAY 6 |
South to North East Andros – Ormos Korthiou to Andros Town (via Dipotamata Gorge)
- Climb to the Upper Castle for stunning views of the Aegean. Trek through the NATURA-protected Dipotamata gorge, home to ancient watermills and lush vegetation. Pass through Sineti before reaching Hora.
- Distance: 12 km | Walking Time: 5.5–6 hrs
- Terrain: Rocky paths, cobblestone trails, and stream crossings.
- Highlights: Dipotamata Gorge, Upper Castle, traditional Sineti village.
- Overnight: Andros Town (Hora)
DAY 7 |
Central Andros

Option 1: Circular Route from Hora
- A relaxed loop through verdant villages around Hora, including Apoikia and the ravine of Evrousies. Perfect for a lighter day
- Distance: 11 km | Walking Time: 3 hrs
- Overnight: Andros Town (Hora)
Option 2: Hora to Arni Village (via Vourkoti)
- A long, challenging route combining five trails. Detour to Pythara waterfalls before heading to Vourkoti and the ridge of Mount Kouvara, ending in Arni.
- Distance: 14 km | Walking Time: 4.5 hrs
- Highlights: Mountain views, Pythara waterfalls, remote landscapes.
- Overnight: Arni (farmhouse)
Option 3: Hora to Apoikia Village
- A shorter hike ending in Apoikia, with the option to continue to Arni the next day.
- Distance: 8 km | Walking Time: 2.5 hrs
- Overnight: Apoikia
DAY 8 |
Central to West Andros

Option 1 Apoikia to Batsi
- Start in Apoikia and pass through Vourkoti village. Climb to the ridge of Mount Kouvara for breathtaking views before descending to the lush valley of Arni. Continue downhill to Batsi.
- Distance: 19 km | Walking Time: 6–6.5 hrs
- Terrain: Rugged mountain paths, forested trails, and coastal routes.
- Highlights: Kouvara ridge, lush Arni, seaside Batsi.
- Overnight: Batsi
Option 2: Arni to Batsi
- Start from the lash valley of Arni through oaks and walnut trees, running water springs. With beautiful views the downhill end in Batsi.
- Distance: 9 km | Walking Time:3 hrs
- Terrain: Rugged mountain paths, forested trails, dirt roads.
- Highlights: Lush Arni, seaside Batsi.
- Overnight: Batsi
DAY 9 |
End of program
- Transfer to Gavrio port for departure. Option to extend your stay or explore more of Andros.
- No trekking on this day.

Why Choose This Trek?

Authentic Inn-to-Inn Experience: End each day’s hike in a different village or town, enjoying warm local hospitality.
Diverse Terrain and Landscapes: Explore cobblestone paths, verdant valleys, dense vegetation, coastal trails, and historic sites.
Comprehensive Local Support: Meet your local contact upon arrival for a detailed briefing and receive 24-hour on-island assistance during your stay.
Hassle-Free Trekking: Daily luggage transfers, a complete “Walker’s Pack,” and carefully chosen accommodations allow you to focus on the journey.
Eco-Tourism Focus: Experience Andros’s pristine NATURA-protected areas, preserved paths, and unique biodiversity.

Enquiry

enquiry

Included Services

Round-trip ferry tickets (Rafina–Andros–Rafina)
8 nights’ accommodation with breakfast
Daily luggage transfers
Local transfers as needed
Walker’s Pack (digital+printed): Detailed route descriptions, maps, GPS files, Andros Hiking Book and hiking tips
24-hour on-island support
Welcome dinner and briefing

Not Included

International flights
Transfers from Athens airport to Rafina port (available upon request)
Meals (lunch/dinner) except breakfast
Optional lunch boxes
Travel insurance

Our Route.

Know before you go:

The trails offer moderate/difficult grade with a minimum of 3,5 hrs and maximum 6,5 hours walk. Participants should be in good physical condition with some experience.

Insurance: Participants should be covered by their own personal travel-health insurance prior to the trip. The personal insurance must at least cover medical expenses as well as air rescue and the cost of repatriation. One Foot Forward is not responsible for any accidents or mishaps directly or indirectly related to the tour. (See Terms & Conditions)

Things you need to bring: Day pack (approx. 20 lt.), Trekking shoes, Waterproof jacket, Fleece, Water bottle, Hat, Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Swimming suit.

Children over 15 years old can book when accompanied by an adult.

The organisation and support from Ariana was first rate. The walking on Andros was a fabulous experience on this rugged wild island with great views. Andros is a beautiful island with small relatively undeveloped towns and friendly local restaurants. We hope to return soon.

Kirsty, UK