Folegandros In a Nutshell

An undiscovered Greek escape..small Folegandros is one of the most relaxing of the Greek islands

About Folegandros

This island in the Cyclades will sweep you off your feet with its beauty, charm and relaxing rhythm.

A few years ago, Folegandros was a well-kept secret in the heart of the Aegean, known to a discerning few. Now, more and more people are discovering this small island with its rugged beauty and easy pace. Its main town, Chora, teeters precariously on the edge of a high cliff, with its small squares framed by graceful, typically Cycladic church facades and traditional tavernas.

In the evenings, taverna tables fill up and the village becomes even more welcoming. Honeyed raki flows, music starts, people sing and friends are made. By day, you’ll meet them again on beaches lapped by emerald waters or in the colourful alleyways of the oldest part of town where small boutiques tempt you with their wares.

Probably one of the most spectacularly situated of all island villages, Chora adds new meaning to the word breathtaking. Its oldest part, the walled medieval Kastro, is beautifully preserved. Will you dare stand on the parapet at Pounta Square and admire the view? From there, you can stroll to the other squares. Each has its own character, with an exquisite church and small houses glistening under layers of whitewash. You understand the truth of the saying “small is beautiful”.

As though moulded from white clay, the little houses of the Kato Rouga neighbourhood are like sculptures embellished with lively colours. Rest for a longer look and then walk to the Church of Pantanassa. From there you can see the islands Milos, Sifnos and Kimolos.

Above Chora, a striking white path zigzags across the face of the mountain, heading up to a special Folegandros landmark, the Church of the Panagia. Don’t hesitate, the walk is surprisingly gentle and short. And the views are great.

Whether you walk, take the bus or jump into a caique, you will find Folegandros beaches delightful and photogenic. Whatever your choice, fine pebbles or golden sand, you’ll find the water inviting and clear. Angali, Agios Georgios, Vardia, Livadaki, Hochlidia, Katergo will become familiar names. But remember to take a picnic with you. Sun loungers, umbrellas or iced coffees are rarer on Folegandros than elsewhere in the Aegean.

If you were to measure them, the island’s pathways would be far, far longer than its asphalted roads. Generations of farmers and shepherds carved out dozens of routes to their pastures and crops, which any self-respecting hiker would want to try. Most of them are paved with flagstones. Hike as many as you can. They’ll lead you to some of the most beautiful secrets of the Aegean.

Ano Mera, the island’s only other village besides Chora, has kept its strictly agricultural character. Here, in an old farmhouse, you can see what a traditional farmstead was really like, with its storage cellar, outdoor oven, olive press and - a Folegandros phenomenon - walled-in lemon trees.

THINGS TO DO & SEE IN FOLEGANDROS

Ano Mera village
Walking trails
Island Day Boat Tour
Angali, Livadi & Agios Georgios beaches

Getting to Folegandros

Fly to Athens - TRANSFER BY FERRY
Approx. 5hr from Piraeus
Approx. 3hr 15min from Rafina
or
Fly to Santorini - TRANSFER BY FERRY
approx. 50min from Santorini