AMORGOS
Amorgos
Amorgos is located in the easternmost part of the Cyclades archipelago, with a land area of approximately 121 square kilometers.
Amorgos has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with evidence of early Cycladic settlements found throughout the island. The island was also an important centre of the ancient Minoan civilization, and it played a significant role in the Aegean’s trade routes during the ancient Greek period. The island was later conquered by the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Venetians, and it was even occupied by the Ottomans for a time.
Today, Amorgos is a popular destination for tourists who are looking to experience the beauty and charm of the Cyclades. The island’s rugged terrain and stunning coastline make it a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, while its picturesque villages and traditional architecture offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
One of the island’s most notable features is the stunning Monastery of Hozoviotissa, which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea. The monastery was built in the 11th century and is a testament to the island’s Byzantine heritage. The Monastery is open to visitors and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.
Another popular attraction on Amorgos is the Chora, which is the island’s main town. The Chora is a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses, and it is home to many of the island’s shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can explore the town’s winding streets and alleys, admire its beautiful architecture, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Amorgos is a beautiful and unique island that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and history of the Cyclades. Whether you are interested in hiking, history, or simply soaking up the island’s laid-back atmosphere, Amorgos is a great destination for your next Greek island getaway.
Best for: those looking for a more a more rugged and traditional island experience
Not best for: Those looking for more ‘sophisticated’ locations, shopping and the best sandy beaches.
Best Amorgos Accommodation
There are several locations to stay on Amorgos, each offering something different depending on your preferences.
Chora is one choice as the main town of Amorgos, perched on a hilltop and offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. It is close to the island’s main sights, including the 11th-century Monastery of Hozoviotissa and the Venetian Castle. Chora has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, and plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. Vorina Ktismata is a great place to stay – very comfortable rooms, walking distance to the Chora and Nikos’ team will look after you well – great breakfast too!
Aegiali is located on the north coast of Amorgos and is a charming seaside village known for its sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular destination for families and couples looking for a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. Aegiali has several hotels, apartments, and studios to choose from, as well as tavernas serving fresh seafood and local dishes.
Tholaria is a small mountain village located in the northern part of Amorgos, known for its traditional architecture and panoramic views of the sea. Tholaria is a great option for those seeking a quieter and more authentic experience of the island. It has several guesthouses and small hotels, as well as tavernas serving local specialties.
Lagada is a small fishing village located on the east coast of Amorgos, known for its quiet beach and crystal-clear waters. It is another great option for those seeking a peaceful and secluded holiday. Lagada has a few accommodation options, including traditional guesthouses and small hotels, as well as a handful of tavernas serving fresh seafood.
Best Amorgos sights
The Hozoviotissa Monastery is probably the single most photographed landmark in Amorgos. It is situated on a steep cliff, 300 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. The monastery was built in the 11th century by the Byzantine emperor Alexios Komnenos in honor of the icon of the Virgin Mary that was found in a cave on the island.
To reach the monastery, visitors must climb 300 steep steps that are cut into the side of the cliff. The climb can be challenging, but the view and the experience are worth the effort. The monastery is made of stone and has a fortress-like appearance. The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, icons, and artifacts from the Byzantine era.
The Hozoviotissa Monastery is still active and inhabited by a small number of monks. Visitors can explore the monastery, but they must be respectful of the monks and their way of life. Women are required to wear long skirts, and men must cover their shoulders when entering the monastery.
The Chora is definitely worth visiting – a small maze of alleyways with views out to the ocean, filled with shops, bars and restaurants. It comes alive in the evenings as visitors flock to the eating places.
Katapola is a fishing village on the south coast and one of the 2 ferry departure points (Aegali is the other). It is a natural harbour and also has a small beach with (of course) plenty of tavernas and bars.
Villages worth a visit include Langada on the north coast, Tholaria on the slopes of Mount Krikelos, Potamos in the center of Amorgos and Arkesini in the southern part of Amorgos – Arkesini has several ancient sites, including the ruins of an ancient acropolis.
Best Amorgos Beaches
The Amorgos beaches tend to reflect the character of the island – more rugged, rocky, pebbles than other Cyclades islands. But there are plenty of opportunities for a dip, particularly if you dont mind going in from rocky outcrops and (sometimes) you dont mind a hike to get there.
Some of the easier access beaches are:
Agios Pavlos – accessible via teh main road from Chora to Aegali or by boat. Usually clear water (good for snorkelling) , rounded stones.
Maltezi – walk from Katapola or get the boat for a few Euros. Vry popular when teh wind is blowing as it’s often sheltered. Has umbrellas/beds for a longer stay.
Kalotaritissa – a drive down to the southern end of the island (and just past the Olympia shipwreck beach of Navagio – park on the main road if you want to take a look). A decent sandy bay beach with facilities and a beach bar.
If you dont mind a walk:
On the north side of Egiali Bay there are 3 small beaches – Levrossos is a sandy beach with some parking but a tricky walk down, Psili Ammos is mixed sand/pebble (some naturist here) and Hochlaka, the least accessible.
To the east and south of the Monastery there are Agia Anna and Kambi – Kambi is easier water access but pebbles, Agia Anna is for confident swimmers – its clear and generally cold but good snorkelling.
Mourou is another pebbly beach with caves to explore, good snorkelling and a taverna nearby.
Best Amorgos Restaurants and Bars
In Chora, Tranzistoraki sits near the top of most lists. Set in the Chora alleys, it a buzzy spot serving traditional food and the service is notably good. Apospero has a nice setting in the Chora and Kastanis is one of the old established tavernas. Mpirzolaki is another Chora favourite.
If you can get to Lagkada, give 25raki a try on teh square. A nice relaxed place with good food (fava is good) and good venue for groups.
At Aegali, Tachendo is a poular choice with good reviews and at Katapola Anemi and Veggera are both good with good views over the harbour.
If you’re driving around the island, Mouros at Mouros offers a fantastic terrace view over the ocean and is a good spot for a lunch stop.
For a drink, try Pergalidi or Rakentia in Chora, Franco’s or Yalos in Aegali, Anemos in Katapola.
Amorgos Island Hopping
Amorgos is a good combination with Naxos giving a good Cycladic contrast with good connections. Otherwise you could get more adventurous by adding Donoussa or perhaps Koufonisia – ferry connections would need careful planning though.
Amorgos Tips
Careful of the goats – there are plenty of them roaming on the roads as you drive around – probably best to avoid complications by not hitting any of them.
