Magic Andros

“You are going where?”  friends asked when I told them I was going to the island of Andros! And that is why I like so much Andros. 

Andros is only 2 hours away from Athens by ferry and the second largest island in the Cyclades. Though Andros differs from the other islands ….its like a miniature of Greece, with its high mountains, many ravines, small rivers, valleys with vines, waterfalls, hot springs, cypresses, oak trees, great fauna and flora and of course wonderful beaches …

So, I take the ferry beginning of April, before the tourist season starts, and all is so peaceful, quiet …  many goats just sitting in the middle of the roads knowing they will be there alone for a while! The sky is perfect clear blue, and the aromas of the citrus blossoms are overwhelming. Strolling through its beautiful nature I can smell the fresh oregano, thyme, orchids and discover some delicious asparagus! The paths are very well marked and I am pleasantly surprised of the gorgeous sea views, ancient ruins and stone bridges. In some villages they stop me to try their fresh amygdalota sweets or some Volakia cheese and a friendly chat! And of course, I need to try their Pontzi, raki with honey and berries…

Surely during summertime it is a different experience to visit Andros. But still not as busy as some other Greek islands. The capital Chora is a very friendly town built on a small peninsula, with narrow streets, cosy cafes and various tavernas. An interesting mix of mid-age, Neoclassical and Cycladic buildings. Batsi, built by the sea, is a lively place with many hotels, bars and taverns. Gavrio is the main port of Andros, with hotels, taverns, cafes, bars and close to many picturesque villages like Amolochos, Fellos, Varidi, Kalivari.

Next day I am strolling through the marble paved pedestrian streets of Chora, the lovely little town and capital of Andros. After seeing the movie “Mikra Angglia” the houses seem different than before …. Like I’m thrown back in time in the beginning of the 20^th century, with the beautiful, impressive mansions of many ship owners, the place where the Greece-North America sea route was launched! The afternoon is great to be spent at the “plateia” a soothing square surrounded by cafes, pastry shops, small taverns shadowed by old plane trees.

Leaving Andros with only one thing on my mind …. I cannot wait to come back! There is something special about this island and I feel it every time again as soon as I step off the ferry!

Danielle