September 7th 2024.
Have you ever been to the beautiful Greek islands? You may have checked off all the popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, but there is one hidden gem that often gets overlooked - Amorgos. Located in the easternmost part of the Cyclades, this island offers a unique and authentic Greek experience that is less crowded than its well-known counterparts.
You can reach Amorgos through various options, as there is no direct flight to the island. You can fly to Athens or Santorini and then take a ferry to Amorgos. Popular budget airlines like Jet2, Ryanair, and Easyjet have flights to Athens for as low as £39 return in October, and around £100 during peak summer months. The ferry ride from Athens to Amorgos can take over six hours, but it is a scenic journey.
Another option is to fly directly to Santorini, which has a shorter ferry ride to Amorgos. While the flights to Santorini are similar in cost, around £54, the fast sailing ferry takes only 90 minutes to reach Amorgos. For budget travelers, there are longer ferry sailings with tickets for less than £10.
Once you reach Amorgos, there are plenty of things to do and see. The island has beautiful beaches and bays, like Mourous Bay, known for its turquoise waters and small caves for snorkeling. Agia Anna, a beach featured in the film “Le Grand Bleu”, is also popular for its calm waters and a nearby chapel to visit. The Olympia Shipwreck near Kalotaritissa Beach is a must-see for diving enthusiasts.
For a taste of Greek culture and history, visit the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a dazzling white structure built into a cliff 300 meters above the sea. It is a bit of a hike to get there, but the breathtaking views and traditional Greek hospitality make it worth the effort. Just remember to dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
To immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, head to Chora, the picturesque capital of Amorgos. You can explore a 13th-century Venetian castle, admire the famous windmills, and stroll along the cobbled streets. For a taste of the island's nightlife, Sunset Boulevard in Aegiali offers stunning views of the sunset, along with a row of restaurants and bars.
No trip to Greece is complete without indulging in the delicious local cuisine. Amorgos has its own specialties, like loukoumia (local sweets) and fouskopitta (a savory pie). For the more adventurous, try xydato, a soup made with goat and offal, traditionally served after weddings to cure hangovers. Highly rated restaurants like Loukaki Ksana and Tranzis ToRaki offer mouth-watering dishes and a charming atmosphere.
If you want to explore the island, there are hiking routes ranging from one to four hours. The Old Strata walk takes you through Chora, past the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, and towards Langada. The Fotodotis walk, starting in Chora, passes through a ravine towards Millies and ends in Katapola.
For accommodation, there are plenty of options on Booking.com. Some budget-friendly options include Pension Ilias Chora Amorgos for £31 per night and Pension The Big Blue for £38 per night. For a more luxurious stay, consider Theasis Suites for £92 per night or Vigla Hotel for £95 per night.
Amorgos has a Mediterranean climate with warm temperatures from June to September, ranging from 22°C to 28°C. The off-shoulder season in September and October still offers pleasant weather, with temperatures around 24°C to 26°C.
In terms of expenses, snorkeling is the most expensive activity on the island, with trips starting at €35. However, entrance to popular tourist attractions like the Monastery of Hozoviotissa and the botanical gardens is free. For food and drinks, dinner at Loukaki Ksana, the top-rated restaurant on the island, is fairly affordable, with dishes ranging from £5 to £11.
So, if you want to experience a true Greek island adventure, consider adding Amorgos to your travel list before it becomes a mainstream destination. With its stunning beaches, quaint streets, delicious food, and warm hospitality, it is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
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