Greece’s most walkable island has been crowned but it’s got nowhere near as many tourists as Crete or Corfu do. If you’re looking for a Greek island getaway, away from the crowds of other popular islands, Andros could be just what you need. The northmost island of the Cyclades was recently named the best island walking and hiking destination for 2025 by Conde Nast Traveller.
Unlike the other islands of the Cyclades, Andros stands out with its “Andros Routes” network of hiking trails with over 25 different trails across the island. From caves to rivers, mountains, monasteries villages and beaches, the trails offer something for everyone.
The island has several hundreds of miles worth of footpaths and is one of the least tourist crowded islands of the Cyclades.
The Andros Route is a long 62-mile hiking route which travels the entire island from North to South and was awarded the Leading Quality Trails for two years in a row.
This hiking trail can be done in several days with visitors spending each night in a different village.
For those looking for a shorter hiking experience, the Apikia – Pithara Waterfalls route will only take you a total of half an hour there and back and is said to be the easiest of all the hiking trails on the island, but will still lead you from the stunning village of Apikia into the mountains and the Pithara Waterfalls.
Another incredible route is the one that goes to Vourkoti to Agios Nikolaos and Achla Beach featuring the Agios Nikolaos Monastery, arched bridges, waterfalls, old farmhouses and one of Andros’ most beautiful beaches.
Hiking Trail 9a features a fascinating archaeological site of Palaiopolis, with a submerged port, a mountain range and the stunning beach of Palaiopolis.
Palaiopolis was the capital of the island during a millennium and its beach has crystal clear waters and stunning views.
From crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, ancient monasteries, charming villages to mountains, archaeological sites, St. Peter’s Tower, churches, springs and natural waterfalls and even a Nautical Museum, the island offers an array of experiences and landscapes to discover.
