The Cyclades is a group of islands scattered over the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea, cooled in the summer by the ‘Meltemi’ wind. One of the most ancient European civilizations was born and prospered here: the Cycladic civilization (3000-1000 BC).
Although some of the Cycladic Islands are famous to the tourist crowds and the international jet set, there are a few that are still left to be discovered, from travellers that are seeking authentic vacation experiences: Andros and Tinos are amongst them!
Andros is the most northerly island of the Cyclades and the second largest after Naxos. Thanks to its water springs it’s irrigated with plentiful running water and thus verdant with a large number of olives, pine and fruit trees. Tinos just one mile away, famous for its characteristic dovecotes, is full of picturesque villages and windmills. Tinos is today exactly what Delos Island was to believers in ancient times. Twice a year, on March 25th and August 15th, pilgrims inundate the island to visit the famous church of Virgin Mary (in Greek: Panagia).
During our tour, we explore magnificent paths and trails with breathtaking views. We discover traditional Greek villages, local craftsmen and the unique Cycladic architecture and history. We enjoy sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets.
Arrival in Andros, transfer, and check-in at the hotel. We meet for the first time to get to know each other and have a small talk about the program, in a unique Greek manner: with welcome drinks and small bites of Greek delicacies (mezes in Greek).
Overnight in Chora.
We start from Chora, for a beautiful circular hiking route. Around Gialia Beach we admire a unique natural environment formed by the river. From there, the cemented footpath parallel to Pythara ravine goes up towards Apikia Village passing through major settlements of seamanship and rural Andros.
After some rest and a light lunch, we descend this time to Chora via a different excellent cobbled path, enjoying a magnificent view of the capital city and the sea. During our hike, we visit ‘the Fabrica’, an old pasta factory watermill, a medieval stone bridge, the Bistis-Mouvelas Tower dating from the 17th century and Pythara waterfalls. Light lunch during our hike to a local “mezedopoleo” and return to Chora.
(Lunch in the taverna is included in the guided mode only, for self-guided we offer lunch box).
Stop for a swim and free time for rest or a walk to the centre of the town. Overnight in Chora.
Distance: 12Km – 7.5 Miles / Duration: 5 hours
We hike a route of great variety and wealth of rural landscapes, connecting central with south Andros. We follow the old road leading to Korthi, connecting the two old medieval castles of the island on the central agricultural and commercial artery for south-eastern Andros until 1950.
We cross Dipotamata ravine, a valley with impressive water mills, an arched bridge, and Kochylou medieval castle. Transfer back to Chora and overnight in Chora.
Distance: 12 km – 7,5 Miles / Duration: 5 hours
Transfer to Upper Pitrofos in the morning. We take the longest route in the trail network, following the old path which connected southwest Andros to the central villages and Chora, the so-called “Ample Way” (Fardia Strata).
In the first part of the hike, we enjoy panoramic views to the west coast and the ancient port of Palaiopolis on an exceptional cobbled path with holy oak, wild olives and seasonal crops. En route, we pass by two small waterfalls the watermills of Melida and the Olive Oil Museum. We end up in the village of Batsi.
Distance: 12 Km – 8,6 Miles /Duration: 4 - 5 hours
In the morning we transfer to the port where we take a boat to Tinos, the isle of dovecotes and small Catholic chapels. Having settled at our hotel, we have the rest of the day free to explore the town of Tinos.
Don’t forget to visit the church of Virgin Mary in Chora. Tradition says that a nun, Pelagia, from the nearby convent of Kechrovouni had visions of Virgin Mary revealed to her the burial place of an icon. After intensive searching, an icon was indeed found, at the spot where the Church stands today. Today the icon is widely believed to be the source of numerous miracles and Tinos has become the center of a yearly pilgrimage that takes place on the 15th of August. Many pilgrims make their way the 800 meters from the ferry wharf to the church on their hands and knees as a sign of devotion.
Overnight in Tinos.
Today we discover the picturesque villages and dovecotes of Tinos. Following an impressive medieval paved path (kalderimi), we visit the old village of Ktikados, the heart of traditional dovecote architecture and we reach Kiona bay. We enjoy our light lunch box and return to Chora hiking. Rest and swim in the evening. Overnight in Tinos.
Distance: 9 Km – 6 Miles /Duration: 5 hours
We go up to Xobourgo, the old Byzantine fort of the island, via an old, paved path. The view of the Aegean is remarkable. We continue walking down to Volax, an isolated, small, sparkling white village in the middle of a plateau surrounded by hills of round granite blocks and we return on to the village named Falatados the second biggest settlement in the island, with the imposing Cathedral and the famous House of Scetch. Transfer back to Chora and overnight in Tinos.
Distance: 12 Km – 7 Miles /Duration: 4 hours
Time to return to Athens, or travel to another Greek island. After our delicious freshly made breakfast, we transfer to the port for our next destination and full of happy memories and images.
Discover traditional Greek villages, local craftsmen, and the unique Cycladic architecture and history. Relax on beautiful sandy beaches and take in stunning sunsets.
Self-Guided Mode:
Fully Guided Mode:
Relatively easy hikes and activities for beginners (3 - 5 hours per day), good start for a first outdoor holiday. The walking is on a mixture of dirt tracks and well-constructed stone mule paths.
Our trips are designed for active people who enjoy energetic days. We expect participants to be in good physical condition.
Self-Guided Mode
Included:
Fully Guided Mode:
Included:
Self-Guided Mode
Not Included
Fully Guided Mode:
Not Included
Please consider taking along the following items on your trip. This is not a fixed list, but more of a guideline, so feel free to add and remove items as you see fit.
Greece has a temperate climate. Base your clothing on the “layering system”, if it is hot you can “peel off” layers quickly, if it is cooler and windy you can quickly “dress up”.
Luggage
Outerwear
Clothing
Clothing Accessories
Footwear
Accessories
Optional Accessories
The lighter you travel, the easier you travel. Use your best judgment and pack as lightly as possible. You will appreciate light luggage towards the end of your trip.
Price from €999
DECLARE INTERESTMeeting Point: TBA
Time: TBA
The activity is available Throughout the year (excluding July and August)
During spring and autumn, there is a possibility of rain, so it is recommended to pack a raincoat or waterproof poncho. In the summer period, temperatures can range between 30 and 40 degrees Celsius during the daytime.
3-star hotels with double/twin sharing rooms and private bathrooms are used in the itinerary.
If meals are included, they are served family-style. Vegan/vegetarian meals can be provided if needed.
Transfers from/to airports and ports, as well as additional stay, can be provided upon request.
The activity is suitable for children above 14 years old.
