Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

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9 Days From

$857

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

9 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Gavrio - Andros, Greece

Visiting: Athens, Andros, Andros Chora, Batsi, Agios Petros

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

GRW

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate

Tour operated in:

English
From: $857

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Andros Trail Self Guided Walk and immerse yourself in the stunning coastal scenery of Greece's Cycladic island of Andros. This adventure offers a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, with opportunities to explore unspoilt beaches and encounter local wildlife. Stay in charming, handpicked hotels and savor authentic Greek cuisine at local tavernas. As part of a sustainable tourism project, you'll help maintain ancient paths while enjoying panoramic views, hidden villages, and historical sites. With a digital information pack and emergency hotline, this self-guided tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience.

Highlights

  • Experience the breathtaking coastal scenery of the Cycladic island of Andros.

  • Visit unspoilt beaches.

  • Be a part of a sustainable tourism project by helping maintain a network of ancient paths.

  • Walk from Tromarchion Monastery with panoramic views over the valley of Kothi and the sea.

  • Explore the white town of Chora with its museums and local cafes.

  • Walk through the forest to Apikia, famous for its spring water.

  • Visit the fortress-like monastery of Zoodochou Pigis.

  • Enjoy a coastal walk ending at the beach of Agios Petros.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive Athens, Transfer To Rafina Port, Ferry To Andros And Bus To Ormos Korthiou

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

On your arrival in Athens you will be met and transferred to the port of Rafina from where you will depart by ferry in the late afternoon to Andros (ferry: approx 2hrs). Pick-up is possible from Athens airport or city. From Andros, port Gavrio, you travel by local bus to Ormos Korthiou (bus: approx 1hr). On arrival you will receive a welcome package including a small pruner and gloves.
*You will need to arrive in Athens before 1.00pm to travel to Rafina and onwards today. For arrivals after 1.0pm, we can book a pre-trip night in Athens - please ask for our rates. Alternatively, you may wish to book your own pre-trip night in the port town of Rafina or the village of Mati (5km/3mi from Rafina). In this case, you will travel on the 7.30 am morning ferry to Andros.

Day 2 : Transfer To Tromarchion Monastery, Return To Ormos Korthiou On Foot (3Hrs)

Location: Andros

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's walk today starts at Tromarchion monastery, situated high upon a cliff near the west coast of Andros. You will enjoy panoramic views over the wide valley of Kothi and the sea on the horizon. A short section is via a dirt road but most of the walk is via old footpaths. The route is mostly hilly with ascents and descents but without too many height variations. Distance 9km/5.6mi, +180m (590ft), -350m (-1148ft).

Day 3 : Inland Walk To The White Town Of Chora (5 Or 6 Hrs)

Location: Andros Chora

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

There are 2 possible routes today. Walking from Ormos Korthiou to Andros Chora you will encounter outstanding views, tiny, well-hidden villages, old watermills and beautiful stony trails. The first part of the walk takes you through traditionally cultivated land that is used for small-scale farming. You'll cross a mountain ridge to the valley of Andros Chora where you will have impressive views of this great valley and the township of Andros Chora. Continue through forest and orchards until you reach town. Crossing the town you'll come down to the beach of Nimborio, where your accommodation is situated. Andros Chora has two fine museums and is a great town to stroll through or relax in a local cafe. Distance 14 or 15km/8.7-9.3mi, +530 or 700m (+1740ft/2296ft), -530 or 700m (-1740ft/2296ft)

Day 4 : Circular Walks From Chora - 2 Options (4 Or 6.5Hrs)

Location: Andros

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

There are a couple of walking options today. You can take the wide paved paths ('kalerimia') through the forest to Apikia, a village situated in a green valley that is famous for its spring water. The path descends along cypress hedges to the old Bitsis-tower house and on to the sandy beach of Gialia. Following this there is a short but demanding climb before a final descent to the beach of Nimborio. Alternatively, walking via great walled footpaths you ascend to the charming villages of Lamira and Messaria. After crossing the arched Venetian bridge of Stichiomeni the pathway climbs steadily to the monastery of Panachrantou (590m). The monastery clings to the side of the mountain Gerakonas. The monks will happily show you around this historical and architectural monument, and after taking a break you descend through the lush valley of Livadia towards Andros Chora. The path will take you along the river to the beach of Paraporti with the last section through some interesting wetlands.
Both walks are rewarding and you might want to add an extra night here (must be done at the time of booking the trip) - please ask for our rates.
Distance 9 or 17.5km (5.5-11mi), +400 or 600m (+1312/1968ft), -400 or 600m (-1312/1968ft)

Day 5 : Walk On The West Coast Of Andros To Batsi - 2 Options (6.5 Or 5.5Hrs)

Location: Andros

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

There are 2 options today as you explore the west coast of Andros. With the first option you take a local bus or taxi to Messaria, or a taxi to Ano Pitrofos further along. From Messaria you walk to the beautiful village of Menites, where in the village square you will find many water fountains, considered therapeutic in ancient times. Refreshed, you start your demanding climb up the Petalo mountain, followed by the old trading route over the side of thee mountain with great views over green valleys, villages and the sea far below. On the way up you pass through the village of Ano Pitrofos. Or if you arrive by taxi here, you will have avoided half of the ascent (300m) and shortened the walk by 5km. You then descend to the charming seaside resort of Batsi, where you will stay overnight.
Alternative walk: If you missed visiting the monastery of Panacharantou yesterday, you have the option to walk there today. Instead of returning to Chora, you continue walking to Stavropeda and take the afternoon bus or taxi to Batsi. Distance 16 or 18.5km (10-11.5mi), +560 or 600m (+1840/1968ft), -400 or 700m (-1312/2296ft)

Day 6 : Walk In The Hills Above Batsi Via Villages And Terraced Fields (4Hrs)

Location: Batsi

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning you take a taxi to the nearby village of Remata to start your walk. Following a lush, shaded stream bed you ascend to the villages of Arni and Katakilos. Via a wide valley with terraced fields you walk to the hills above Batsi. After enjoying the great views, descend to Batsi and the sea.
Alternative walk: if you didn't walk to Ano Pitrofos village yesterday you can take the morning bus to Paleopolis and follow the route above the coast to this lovely village before continuing to Batsi. Distance 11-12km (6.9/7.5mi), +400m (+1312ft) -600m (-1968ft)

Day 7 : Coastal Walk Via The Monastery Of Zoodochou Pigis To Agios Petros Or Gavrio (4Hrs)

Location: Agios Petros

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

A lovely walk today above and parallel to the coast line. On your way you can visit the fortress-like monastery of Zoodochou Pigis. Further along is the imposing spring at Aguis Petros. This walk ends at the beach of Agios Petros. Overnight here or at nearby Gavrio (dependent on availability). Distance 11.5km (7mi), +450 (+1476ft) -450m (-1476ft)

Day 8 : Circular Walk From Agios Petros/Gavrio (3.5Hrs)

Location: Andros

Accommodation Name: Hotel or B&B

Meals Included: Breakfast

On your last day on the Andros Trail you will walk in the interior near Gavrio. You walk below the beautifully located village of Ano Gavrio and ascend via a pleasant but steep path to the summit of a hill where there are spectacular views of the area. After descending into the valley of Agios Petros you walk past the imposing Hellenistic Tower back to the beach, or continue to Gavrio. Distance 12km (7.5mi), +400 (+1312ft) -400m (-1312ft)

Day 9 : Trip Concludes

Location: Agios Petros

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trip concludes after breakfast. The transfer from Agios Petros to Gavrio port is included. All other transfers and ferry tickets need to be booked at additional cost, ask our office for details, or can be arranged on the spot by yourself. Make your own way back to the mainland.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    8 nights hotels / B&Bs

  • 8 breakfasts

    Breakfasts are usually Greek style inclusive of breads, tomato, olives, feta cheese, yoghurt, tea, coffee & juices.

  • 8 nights in simple hotels and B&Bs

    Accommodation on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Single rooms available on request - supplement applies.

  • Transfer Athens airport or city hotel to Rafina

    Includes ferry ticket from Rafina to Andros.

  • Luggage transfers

    Luggage transfers are included during the trip.

  • Digital information pack

    Includes a smartphone app with maps and roadbook.

  • Emergency hotline

    Access to an emergency hotline during the trip.

  • Pruning tools on loan

    Pruning tools are provided on loan during the walk.

  • Travel to Athens and from Agios Petros/Gavrio

    Ferry ticket from Gavrio (Andros) to Rafina (mainland) can be pre-booked for an additional cost.

What's Not Included

  • Meals not listed as included

    Lunches, dinners, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory and not included.

  • Entrance fees for museums and other sights

    Entrance fees for museums and other sights of interest not stated as included are not covered.

  • Hotel taxes

    Hotel taxes need to be paid locally and are not included.

  • Local transfers by bus and taxi

    Local transfers by bus and taxi are not included.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Items such as laundry, WIFI, and phone calls are not included.

  • Tour guide

    This is a self-guided walking tour, so a tour guide is not included.

Accommodation

8 nights hotels / B&Bs. The choice of accommodation on Andros is limited and the simple hotels for the trip have been chosen for their atmosphere, comfort and hospitality. All rooms have private facilities and will almost always have a balcony or terrace.

Grading

MODERATE - GRADE 3
The walking is graded moderate with 4 to 6.5 hours walking each day over hilly to steep terrain. There are numerous ups and downs in any hike on Andros so your preparation should include climbing and descending steps. A reasonable level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, stair walking and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.

What You Carry

As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, water bottle, lunch supplies, mobile phone and sun protection etc.

Mode of Transport

Transfer from Athens airport or city hotel to Rafina, ferry ticket Rafina-Andros, local bus to Ormos Korthiou, and local transfers by bus and taxi.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the Andros Trail Self Guided Walk?

    The accommodation consists of 8 nights in simple hotels and B&Bs, chosen for their atmosphere, comfort, and hospitality. All rooms have private facilities and will almost always have a balcony or terrace.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 8 breakfasts, which are typically Greek style and include breads, tomato, olives, feta cheese, yoghurt, tea, coffee, and juices.

  • Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

    Yes, additional costs include meals not listed as included, drinks, a supplement for solo travelers or single rooms, travel insurance, entrance fees for museums and other sights of interest not stated as included, hotel taxes, local transfers by bus and taxi, and items of a personal nature.

  • Is there any support provided during the walk?

    Yes, you will receive a digital information pack including a smartphone app with maps and a roadbook, and there is an emergency hotline available. Pruning tools are also provided on loan during the walk.

  • What should I carry during the walks?

    As the walks are fully supported, you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, water bottle, lunch supplies, mobile phone, and sun protection.

  • What is the difficulty level of the Andros Trail Self Guided Walk?

    The walking is graded as moderate with 4 to 6.5 hours of walking each day over hilly to steep terrain. There are numerous ups and downs, so a reasonable level of fitness is required.

  • What happens if I arrive in Athens after 1.00pm on the first day?

    If you arrive in Athens after 1.00pm, you can book a pre-trip night in Athens, Rafina, or the village of Mati. You will then travel on the 7.30 am morning ferry to Andros the next day.

  • What are the options for the walk on Day 4?

    On Day 4, you have two walking options. One option is to walk through the forest to Apikia and then to the beach of Nimborio. The other option is to walk to the villages of Lamira and Messaria, visit the monastery of Panachrantou, and then descend to the beach of Paraporti.

  • What is the itinerary for the last day of the tour?

    On the last day, the trip concludes after breakfast. The transfer from Agios Petros to Gavrio port is included. All other transfers and ferry tickets need to be booked at an additional cost or can be arranged on the spot by yourself.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

P. Deponio(Edinburgh, UK)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

18 Oct 2019

Our first self-guided walking trip was an unqualified success and reassuring to have a named person to deal with from the outset. Route-finding was very straightforward, with map, comprehensive descriptions and GPS waypoints. A joy to travel light, confident that comfortable accommodation was awaiting us at the end of each day. A perfect way to get to know a "new" island in the Cyclades.

Susan Jane Simons(Auckland, New Zealand)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

27 Sep 2022

The Andros Trail has some challenging stages with lots of steep ups and downs particularly in hot weather but views are absolutely worth it. Beautiful, lush hidden valleys on an otherwise dry mountainous Island. The people are warm and friendly.

C. Sargent(Beckenham)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

18 May 2022

Thoroughly enjoyed this walking holiday in Andros! We went at the start of May and it was a great time to go, with the island carpeted with wildflowers everywhere and looking stunning. Varied terrain, from green valleys, white-washed hillside hamlets and farm ruins to rugged hilltops, and everywhere you get Andros’s characteristic, very picturesque dry-stone walls and terraces. Weather very breezy (I think it’s always a windy island), so great for walking. The trails were the best way-marked I have ever seen - we barely needed to use the very comprehensive app, map and written directions provided. We only ever saw a handful of other walkers all day, it’s a very peaceful, not very touristy island. Mostly that’s great, but sometimes limits options - eg there was only one restaurant, a pizza place, open in Agios Petros when we stayed there; and a couple of the attractions on route, the oil factory and one monastery, were closed due to Covid. The studios and hotels we stayed in were nicer than we expected - spotlessly clean, very well-kept and very welcoming. Would definitely recommend this trip and consider other walking holidays with the company.

G. Lane(Waverley, Australia)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

13 Nov 2023

We had a most enjoyable holiday, the walking was challenging at times when the weather became hotter other than that we would recommend the experience.

C. Dunn(Bristol, United Kingdom)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

26 Jun 2023

Andros is a beautiful place to explore in late May, and we only saw one other pair of hikers in the whole 9 days. The local people were very friendly and pleased to sell us their honey, yoghurt etc. and the restaurants served very fresh food with smiles. The maps UTracks supplied were clear and detailed, and the routes were well signposted so we didn't have to think about navigation. The walks were a good distance, taking about 4-5 hours at a leisurely pace with lots of stops to look at various reptiles and fruit trees, and to drink from springs. The east side of Andros had the nicest valleys and villages, and the west side had lots of sheltered spots for a cooling swim. It's a pretty island with happy local people and we felt that we were in the real Greece before tourism.

Sarah B.(Bath, UK)  

Andros Trail Self Guided Walk

01 Jul 2019

Andros was great. The Andros Routes project is very inspiring – what the volunteer team have achieved there is remarkable. Incredibly well waymarked routes, beautiful and varied scenery, lovely little villages. I was lucky that the north wind was a-blowing – it would have been brutally hot without it. Of course, knowing you could sink into the sea at the end of each day was a big mental help. The sea was delicious! Everything worked out pretty well. No problems to report. The accommodation - especially Nicolas in Korthi and Irene Studios in Gavrio - was much nicer than I expected. And I had the trails completely to myself – I saw one other couple walking on one day, but that was it!

Read all 6 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.