Amazing things to do on Andros Island
Hiking
Andros Routes
Unlike the other islands of the Cyclades, Andros is ideal for hiking due to its mountainous landscape and variety of springs. In recent years, there has been a systematic effort by the “Andros Routes” network to record, maintain and promote these routes. And therefore, they have become more popular under tourists over time.
In October 2015 The European Ramblers’ Association granted Andros΄ Paths as “Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe”. This label hides a special system of criteria that takes care of the needs of hikers, makes the attractiveness of trails tangible and thereby guarantees a high standard.
There are more than 25 hiking trails to explore on Andros for both experienced and novice hikers with a total length of 300km hiking paths network.
Hiking in Andros offers many beauties like old bridges, watermills, valleys, and small waterfalls. There are beautiful views and stone-walled paths to enjoy along the way, as well as rivers like Achia, Vori and Pythara river.
In 1997, the Cyclades Prefecture in cooperation with the Andros Agency of Development undertook a project to clear and signpost 12 hiking routes of 85 km long, most of which are located in the central and southern part of the island. Recently, some particularly interesting routes were added in the northern and western parts.
Scuba Diving
Scuba Diving in Andros are quite a magical experience. Andros has crystal clear waters which is full of fascinating aquatic life and shipwrecks that makes the diving experience even more adventurous.
If you are interested in Scuba Diving, then Andros is a great island for it. Here you can learn from scratch how to dive and get a diploma in a PADI course. Or if you are an experienced diver there are advanced dive sites which will be very enjoyable.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing in Andros became more popular over the years due to the location of Andros which is largely affected by the strong northern winds during the summer. The eastern side of the island is most popular for windsurfing especially in the bay of Ormos Korthiou, close to Chora. This seaside village has perfect conditions for windsurfing. It is an ideal place for experienced and novice windsurfers.
On the other hand, various sailing enterprises, associations and clubs offer tuition and equipment available for rent to the novice of all ages as well as the necessary modern accessories for professionals.
It is no coincidence that, some well-known world champions have at times chosen Andros waters to train and in the past the World Windsurf Championship took place in Korthio Bay.
Here are two popular windsurfing centres:
- Noka in Ormos
Established in the area since 1989, the Nautical Club of Korthi, which started by teaching children how to swim, has grown by leaps and bounds to become the most reputed water sports club in Andros offering world-class coaching in a variety of water sports, including windsurfing.
The training team is led by George Frank and Nick Garlic, highly proficient in the sport, and who have bagged several gold medals at the Pan-Hellenic Games as well as many other national and international tournaments. In addition to sports, the center also takes a keen interest in organizing cultural and social activities to promote the rich history and culture of Andros.
- Wesurfin in Kipri
The Wesurfin Club can be found on the western coast in the bay of Kipri. They offer rentals and lessons and is run by some of the most experienced windsurfers in the country – George Fragos, Nikos Skordos and Akis Crysochou. They have all competed and won medals in top-level domestic and international windsurfing competitions.
Throughout the year the three coaches train the new generation of athletes aspiring to repeat the achievements of Olympic gold and silver medalist Nikos Kaklamanakis. During the summer the winds in Kipri blow offshore, creating good conditions for learning on flat-water, and beginners and intermediates can benefit from the experience and enthusiasm of this top-level coaching team. The club also has a great little beach bar for chilling out after your windsurfing session.
Festivals
Gavriotika Festival
Gavrio is home to Gavriotika Festival which marks the beginning of the summer festivals. The event involves art exhibitions, folklore items, sports games, and other events.
Carnival
A traditional feast which is worth seeing is the Carnival Parade of Gavrio which takes place on the last Saturday of the Carnival festivities. Local treats are offered to visitors.
Korthiana Festival
During August, the cultural festival of Korthiana takes place in the village of Korthi.
Ploes Festival
The famous Ploes Festival is organized by Petros and Marika Kydonaeus Foundation and highlights the musical and art events presented in Andros.
