Overview and attractions of the island of Andros
The island of Andros is considered one of the most attractive islands of the Cycladic Archipelago. The mountain chains of the island are a beautiful necklace around the island, the steep slopes are fascinating, with canyons running between them, green valleys planted with groves formed by olive and orange trees. Some vineyards are irrigated by the rushing mountain waters. This landscape is in stark contrast to that found on the other islands of the archipelago.
The island has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, which fully meets the needs of those who come to the island to admire the picturesque villages, ancient monuments, warm sandy beaches, and mineral springs.
What to visit on Andros
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Old Town
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Ancient Zagora
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Pano Castro
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The Monastery of the Life-Giving Spring
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Panahrantou Monastery
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Andros Archaeological Museum
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Maritime Museum
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Museum of Modern Art
Old Town
We recommend that you begin your journey around the island with the old town. You will instantly recognize a picture that you have seen many times in pictures. The city appears to you in the form of white houses with tiled roofs. Walking around the old town you will surely notice the lighthouse Turlitis, which stands alone on a rock.
Ancient Zagora
An important archaeological park on the island is represented by the ruins of the ancient city. It is located near the modern village of Stavropeda. The ancient city was inhabited as early as the 10th century B.C., as evidenced by the excavations, which revealed defensive structures, houses, prayer houses, and sanctuaries.
Pano Castro
Another ancient settlement, but not as old as the previous one. This town began to develop in the Middle Ages and was built by the Venetians. The settlement is located 600 meters above sea level. In addition to historical interest, tourists love to take pictures here, as from this place there are great views of the mountains and the sea.
The Monastery of the Life-Giving Spring
The sanctuary will please fans of Byzantine and post-Byzantine periods. In the monastery, you can see the icons in silver and gold covers and bright wall paintings. Some icons are seven centuries old. At the monastery, there is a museum, where you can look at more ancient artifacts. There is also a library and an exhibition of prehistoric relics.
Panahrantou Monastery
It was built in the 9th century and is located on one of the slopes of the mountain Gerakones. A monastery is a place of pilgrimage for the faithful, who come here to pay homage to the relics of the Saints. Visitors to the monastery are warmly welcomed by the monks.
Andros Archaeological Museum
The museum was opened in the capital of the island and was a gift to the city by the Greek shipowner and millionaire V. Goulandris. The museum building was built at the end of the last century. The museum exhibits interesting finds from different cultural periods, including early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine.
Maritime Museum
One of the most important museums on the island. Here it is interesting to learn about the history of shipbuilding. You can see models of old ships, maps, calendars, seamen's diaries, etc.
Museum of Modern Art
It is named after the Greek billionaire V. Gulandri and his wife. It has an unusual collection of modern paintings, as well as original installations. The museum holds more than 300 works of local and foreign artists. Every year the museum organizes exhibitions of famous modern artists.
Beaches of Andros
Andros is an island that is perfect for a holiday at the beach. We have prepared for you a list of the best beaches in this paradise.
Chrysi Ammos
A beach with golden sand. One of the famous beaches on the island. Here you can not only sunbathe and swim, but also explore the underwater world, take water-skiing lessons, or play volleyball in the fenced area. A bar is open on the beach for delicious and refreshing drinks.
Pidima Gris
The bay is sheltered from the winds, so the sea here is always calm. The place for recreation will suit those who are looking for peace and solitude. The beach is flying the "Blue Flag".
Agios Petros and Kypri
These are two of the island's two seaside resorts that are popular with young people. They offer kayaking and wave catching.
Apofikes
A great cove where you can enjoy the turquoise sea. The beach is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Achla, Zorkos and Vitali
These are the beaches where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. Here you can swim in the clear sea and sunbathe against a beautiful backdrop.
How to reach Andros
Andros is situated in the northern part of the Cyclades. When you travel to either Tinos or Mykonos, a stopover on Andros will be intermediate and comfortable. This island is just between Athens and Mykonos and marks the equator of your trip.
The marina facilities at Andros
Andros has 2 marinas, which are located in the middle on the south side of the island. You can either stay at the main marina (Port) where the ferries come in or go east about 6 miles to the small marina where yachtsmen prefer to stay.
The marina is not big at all and is not equipped for a comfortable stay.
