Our Route.
A journey through Andros’ wild heart—rivers, forests, heritage, and the sea
Join us on one of the most unique walking tours in Andros, an adventurous hike from the mountain village of Vourkoti down to the pristine Achla Beach. This tour blends untouched nature, rich biodiversity, and spiritual heritage, guided by a local expert with a deep knowledge of Andros’ flora and landscapes.
Our day begins in Vourkoti, the most remote and highest-inhabited village in the Cyclades (620 m altitude). From there, we follow a trail that runs parallel to the dramatic Achla valley, descending gradually along forested slopes.
As we walk, your naturalist guide will point out endemic plants and explain the island’s ecosystems. We cross the Achla River via an old stone bridge and pause by small waterfalls for a refreshing break.
Our next stop is the historic Monastery of Agios Nikolaos, an active spiritual site nestled in the hills. After visiting the monastery and filling our flasks with cool spring water, we continue back down toward the river valley—a protected nature reserve and one of Andros’ most important biodiversity hotspots.
The final stretch of our hike leads us through dense riparian forest with towering plane trees and wild vegetation, eventually reaching Achla Beach: a remote sandy bay with dunes, caves, and a small river lagoon. This area is a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife, under strict environmental protection.
We’ll enjoy a light picnic and swim before beginning our return.
It was great fun walking in the countryside and the information you gave us was so interesting! Definetely we will come back
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Tour Duration:
4–6 hours (depending on return option)
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Persons:
min 4- max 8
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Hiking Route Starting Point:
Vourkoti or Saint Nicolaos Monastery
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Hiking Route Ending Point:
Achla Beach or Saint Nicolaos Monastery
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Transfers:
Pick up / Drop off upon request (Transfer to Andros Town by sea/RIB boat (available at extra cost and weather permitting)
Technical description
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Andros Route Hiking Network:
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Distance:
14 km (long hike, return to St.Nikolaos Monastery)
6 km (short hike) + 6km for the way back
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Walking Time:
around 4 hrs (long hike)
around 2,5 hours (short hike) + the way back
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Difficulty:
Moderate
Highlights:
- Hike through the lush Achla Valley, one of Andros’ most scenic areas
- Learn about local flora and ecosystems with a naturalist guide
- Visit the historic Monastery of Agios Nikolaos
- Discover a remote, protected beach ideal for swimming and birdwatching
- Optional boat transfer along the east coast of Andros
Inclusions:
- Guided hiking tour led by European-certified guides (English, French, Italian)
- Snacks & water provided along the trail
- Hiking poles (upon request)
- Safety & First Aid equipment for a secure experience
- Digital photo collection of your tour
Exclusions:
- Picnic lunch (optional, available upon request)
- Pick up / Drop off (upon request)
- Gratuities (optional)
Know before you go:
- The hikes offer a moderate hike with a maximum of 4-5 hours walk. This tour requires reasonable physical and mental health on behalf of all participants!
- This tour is not suitable for people with walking difficulties.
- Necessary: long trousers, appropriate shoes and socks, hat and sunscreen.
- Insurance: Participants should be covered by their own personal travel-health insurance prior to the trip. One Foot Forward is not responsible for any accidents or mishaps directly or indirectly related to the tour. (See Terms & Conditions)
- Children over 9 years old can book when accompanied by an adult.
- Confirmation and meeting point info will be received at the time of booking
