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5163

8 days / 7 nights

Period of Operation : March to November

Andros, Cyclades

Min Participants : 4

Max People : 7

Tour Description

The Cyclades unfold like a constellation across the sapphire expanse of the Aegean Sea – sunlit islands shaped by wind, salt, and time. In summer, the refreshing Meltemi breeze sweeps across their rugged landscapes, offering a natural antidote to the Mediterranean heat. These islands are not only a feast for the senses but also the cradle of one of Europe’s earliest cultures: the Cycladic civilization (3000–1000 BC), whose minimalist artistry still inspires today.

While names like Mykonos and Santorini dominate postcards and headlines, a quieter, more authentic Cycladic rhythm still thrives elsewhere. For travelers seeking depth over display, the neighboring islands of Andros and Tinos offer a rare invitation: to slow down, to explore, and to connect.

Andros — The Green Soul of the Cyclades

As the northernmost island of the Cyclades, and second largest after Naxos, Andros surprises with its unexpected lushness. Fed by natural springs and flowing streams, the island is a tapestry of olive groves, citrus orchards, and pine forests—an oasis in an otherwise arid archipelago.

Here, a network of ancient stone-paved paths (kalderimia) weaves through valleys, leading hikers to hidden waterfalls, hilltop monasteries, and timeless villages. Elegant neoclassical mansions in Andros Town hint at a proud maritime heritage, while secluded beaches invite moments of stillness by crystalline waters.

Tinos – Tradition, Craft, and Spirituality

Just a short ferry ride away, Tinos reveals a different, equally captivating character. Known for its intricate dovecotes scattered across the hillsides, the island is a living canvas of Cycladic artistry. Marble craftsmanship thrives here, especially in villages like Pyrgos, where every street corner feels sculpted.

Tinos also holds deep spiritual significance. Much like Delos in antiquity, it remains a sacred destination for modern pilgrims. Each year, on March 25th and August 15th, thousands gather at the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, honoring the Virgin Mary in one of Greece’s most profound religious traditions.

Our journey through Andros and Tinos is an immersion into the authentic Cycladic way of life. We traverse breathtaking trails overlooking the endless blue, wander through whitewashed villages untouched by time, and meet local artisans who keep centuries-old traditions alive. Between explorations, we unwind on golden beaches, savor sun-ripened flavors of the Aegean, and witness sunsets that dissolve into the horizon in hues of fire and gold.

Level of difficulty

Easy

Level requirements

Relatively easy hikes and activities for beginners (3 – 4 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.

Itinerary

Day 1Arrival in Andros

Arrival day in Andros and check-in at the Hotel. Welcome drinks and Greek ‘mezes’ in the evening, first meeting and briefing about our exciting program!

Day 2Batsi - Pitrofos (14 Km's - 8,6 Miles / 5 hours)

The longest route in the network follows the old path which connected south west 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 will pass by two small waterfalls the watermills (Melida and the Olive Oil Museum one) finishing our lovely day at the charming village of Pitrofos for a gastronomic lunch with special local dishes of Greek islandic cuisine!

Day 3Hike Chora - Apoikia - Chora (10 Km's - 6,3 Miles / 4,5 hours)

After our mighty breakfast we will leave Chora, for a beautiful circular hiking route. Heading to Gialia Beach, where the river forms a unique natural environment, the cemented footpath parallel to Pythara ravine, goes up towards Apikia Village passing through major settlements of seamanship and rural Andros. Following a short break and a quick bite, we descend this time to Chora via a different excellent trail, with magnificent views to the capital city and the sea. During our hike, we will visit ‘the Fabrica’, an old pasta factory watermill, a medieval stone bridge, the Bistis-Mouvelas Tower dating from the 17th centrury and the ‘Pythara’ waterfalls. Light lunch during our hike to a local “mezedopoleio” and return to Chora. Stop for swim and free time to rest or walk in the center of the town. Transfer back to our accommodation.

Day 4Chora - Korthi (12km - 7,5 Miles / 5 hours)

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, unveiling the central agricultural and commercial artery for south-eastern Andros until 1950. We will cross Dipotamata ravine, the famous valley for its impressive water mills, an arched bridge and of course the ‘Kochylou’ medieval castle.

Day 5Travel to Tinos

In the morning we will be transferred to the port of Andros (Gavrio) where we will take a ferry to Tinos (2hours), our next destination! Having settled at our hotel we will have the rest of the day free, in order 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 revealing 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 which leads to a year long pilgrimage to the island, having its highlight on the 15th of August, one of the most important and famous Greek holidays! Many pilgrims make their way the 800 metres from the ferry wharf to the church on their hands and knees as a sign of devotion, belief and thankfulness.

Day 6Hike: Chora Tinou - Ktikados - Kionia - Chora Tinou (13,2Km - 8,1 Miles / 5,2 hours)

This day is devoted in discovering the picturesque villages and dovecotes of Tinos. Following an impressive medieval paved path (kalderimi), we will visit the old villages of Ktikados, Xatzirados and Tarabados, the heart of traditional dovecote architecture and we will reach Kiona bay. Light Lunch during our hike today, at the traditional “kafeneion” at Ktikados. Return to Hora, with a free evening for swimming or relaxing!

Day 7Hike: Hora - Xobourgo - Koumaros - Volax - Falatados (10Km - 6,2 Miles / 4 hours)

Via an old paved path, up we go up to Xobourgo, the old Byzantine fort of the island. The view of the Aegean sea from here is priceless! 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.
Our hike today ends in the village named Falatados, the second biggest settlement of the island, proud for its imposing Cathedral and the famous House of Scetch.