Experience the Best of Andros – Secure Your Guided Walking Tour Spot!
Discover the untouched beauty of Andros on this 7-day walking holiday, combining scenic trails, rich history, and authentic Cycladic charm. Explore lush valleys, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages, all while enjoying the island’s vibrant culture and delectable cuisine. Each day offers a new adventure, from hiking through serene forests and visiting waterfalls to uncovering historic sites and savoring traditional Greek hospitality. With comfortable accommodations in Andros Town and guided walks tailored to a moderate fitness level, this trip promises an unforgettable experience in one of the Cyclades’ most captivating destinations. Perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike!
Itinerary: Your 7-Day Walking Holiday in Andros
Day 1: Arrival in Andros and Welcome Dinner
Your adventure begins as you arrive in Andros, the second-largest island in the Cyclades. Upon arrival, enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel in Andros Town. After settling in, meet your guide over a delightful dinner featuring traditional Andros cuisine. Learn about the week’s itinerary and gain insights into the island’s unique blend of natural beauty and history.
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 2: Hike Through Naval History and Natural Beauty
Highlights: Apoikia Village, Pythara Waterfalls, Gyalia Beach, Stenies Village
Start your day with a short drive to Apoikia Village, home to the Sariza springs. From here, embark on a trail leading to the enchanting Pythara Waterfalls, a haven of natural beauty. The cobbled path continues through lush landscapes filled with oaks, olive, and walnut trees, leading to Stenies Village. Visit key landmarks, including the Bistis-Mouvelas Tower, Agadakis Tower, and a botanical garden. The route concludes at Gyalia Beach, where you’ll enjoy a light lunch and a refreshing swim. Return to Andros Town by foot.
Distance: 8 km | Duration: ~3 hours | Elevation: +150m/-200m
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 3: Discover Menites – A Village of Springs
Highlights: Ypsilou, Mesathouri, Lamyra, Menites Village
Today’s hike begins directly from your hotel, guiding you through picturesque settlements like Ypsilou, Mesathouri, and Lamyra. Marvel at dense woods, old village houses, and traditional mansions that showcase Andros’ rich maritime heritage. Your destination is Menites Village, famous for its abundant springs and lush walnut trees. Enjoy a light lunch in this serene setting before returning to Andros Town by car.
Distance: 7 km | Duration: ~3 hours | Elevation: +130m/-290m
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 4: Walk the Historic “Ample Way”
Highlights: Olive Museum, Archaeological Museum, Palaiopolis
Begin with a visit to the Olive Museum in Pitrofos to learn about Andros’ olive oil traditions. Then, walk a segment of the historic “Ample Way,” one of the island’s longest and most significant trails. Traverse diverse landscapes before arriving at the archaeological site and museum in Palaiopolis, the ancient capital of Andros. A transfer will bring you back to Andros Town.
Distance: 8 km | Elevation: +200m/-200m
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 5: Forested Beauty – Arni to Batsi
Highlights: Arni Village, Kanavas Park, Katakoilos, Batsi Bay
Transfer to Arni, a village nestled at 500m altitude and one of the island’s most forested areas. Explore Kanavas Park’s lush vegetation and cross scenic hills to reach Katakoilos, where you’ll rest for a light picnic. Continue along narrow, well-preserved trails with stunning sea views, concluding your hike in the vibrant seaside town of Batsi. After some free time to explore Batsi, return to Andros Town by car.
Distance: 9 km | Elevation: +180m/-350m
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 6: The Dipotamata Gorge and Upper Castle
Highlights: Dipotamata Gorge, Upper Castle, Kochylou Village
Immerse yourself in the ecological wonder of Dipotamata Gorge, home to 22 historic watermills and a sanctuary for various bird and animal species. The trail ascends to the Upper Castle, offering panoramic views of the island. Continue to Kochylou Village, where you’ll enjoy a picnic and traditional Greek coffee in a local “kafeneio.”
Distance: 6 km | Elevation: +250m/-250m
Overnight: Andros Town
Day 7: Farewell to Andros
Conclude your walking holiday with a transfer to the port. Depending on your departure time, take the opportunity to explore more of Andros Town or extend your stay to uncover additional hidden gems on the island.
Overnight: Not included (optional stay extension available)
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Duration
6 nights / 7 days
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Overnight
6 nights Andros Town or Batsi Town
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Trip Style
Walking Holidays (This holiday can turn into a Self-Guided mode)
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Difficulty
Easy (up to 8km per day)
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Group Size
min 2 – max 8
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Customization
Tailored itineraries available for private groups or specific interests.
Why Choose this Trip?
- Explore Diverse Trails: Discover Andros’ varied landscapes, from waterfalls and gorges to beaches and forests.
- Cultural Immersion: Visit historic landmarks, villages, and museums to connect with Andros’ rich history.
- Eco-Tourism: Experience unspoiled nature and ecological treasures like Dipotamata Gorge.
- Expert Guidance: Enjoy the expertise and safety of CPR-certified guides throughout your journey.
- Convenience: Stay in Andros Town each night, with seamless transfers to and from trailheads.
Our walking routes
Inclusions
- Ferry tickets from Rafina port to Andros and back
- 6 nights’ accommodation in Andros Town with breakfast.
- 5 Guided hikes with experienced local guides.
- Transfers for hikes and port transfers.
- Welcome dinner on Day 1.
Exclusions
- Flights
- Athens City Centre and Aiport Transfers (upon request)
- Meals other than breakfast and welcome dinner.
- Personal expenses and travel insurance.
Know before you go
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Fitness Level: A kind of fitness is recommended; daily walks range up to 8 km with varying elevations.
- Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, cancellations, and trip interruptions.
- Children over 12 years old can book when accompanied by an adult
- Getting There: Ferries are available from Rafina Port to Andros
Practical Info
- Packing Tips:
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- A daypack for water, snacks, and personal items
- Lightweight, breathable clothing and layers for cooler evenings
- Swimwear and a quick-dry towel for beach stops
- Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle (hydration is essential during walks)
- Currency: Euros (€) are used throughout Greece. While most restaurants and shops accept cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small, local establishments.
- Local Transportation: Taxis and local buses are available but transfers for guided hikes are included in your package with a private transfer
- Language: While Greek is the official language, English is widely spoken on the islands.
- Meals: Meals are not included (except breakfast & picnics), but you’ll have the chance to dine at traditional taverns offering fresh, locally produced dishes. Your guides will recommend the best options.
- Transportation: We travel by private cars, taxis, or minivans.
- Accommodation: We stay in family-run hotels or studios/apartments in the main towns (all with private facilities).
Getting There
While Andros does not have its own airport, travelers can easily fly to nearby Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) or Mykonos Airport and then connect to Andros by ferry, only by the port of Rafina. Read More
How we walk
Our guided hikes balance active exploration with cultural immersion. Trails are chosen for their historical and scenic significance, and we ensure a comfortable pace to match group abilities. Expect to encounter a mix of rural paths, cobblestone streets, and coastal tracks, all showcasing the island’s beauty. Read More about how we walk