FOLEGANDROS
Folegandros
Folegandros Greece is a relatively small southern Cyclades island covering an area of just 32 square kilometres and holding a population of around 700 locals. It’s made of volcanic rock and hence the vistas are spectacular with towering cliffs, deep ravines and dramatic rock formations.
Despite its small size it has all the key attributes of a Cycladic island with a very pictureseque group of interlinked ‘squares’ hosting a number of tavernas and bars and some attractive beaches in the coves between the cliffs.
The Hora itself is really attractive to stroll around in a very relaxed atmosphere – parts of the old Kastro are well preserved from medieval times and on most summer evening you’ll be joining the other visitors strolling around, selecting their eating place for the evening.
Given its size, there may not be a need for a car on Folegandros – there are local bus services to get you to key spots on the island and this is one place where you can survive without the stress of driving.
Best for: those who prefer the relaxed smaller and more rugged islands and perhaps like some walking as part of their holiday.
Maybe not the best for: Families with younger children and those who are big beach goers
Best places to stay in Folegandros
Around the Hora is a popular spot to stay with a good range of accommodation available up to some pretty swish setups. Anemomilos is a good option around the Hora – nicely laid out with a pool, a decent breakfast service and a good view over the cliffs. If you fancy staying nearer the beach then Blue Sand at Agali Beach is another popular option.
Other popular options close to the Hora are:
Anemi Hotel: This stylish hotel is located just a short walk from Hora, and offers comfortable rooms and suites with traditional Cycladic architecture. The hotel has a large swimming pool, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a spa for guests to relax and unwind.
Polikandia Hotel: This family-run hotel offers cozy rooms and apartments with traditional decor. The hotel has a lovely courtyard with a garden and outdoor seating area, as well as a small bar serving drinks and snacks.
Aspalathras White Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in a quiet area just outside of Hora, and offers elegant rooms and suites with sea views. The hotel has a large swimming pool, a restaurant serving Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, and a spa offering a range of treatments.
Aegeo Hotel: This hotel is a short walk from Hora, and offers comfortable rooms and suites with sea or garden views. The hotel has a swimming pool and a bar with a terrace overlooking the sea.
Antheia Hotel: This hotel is located just outside of Hora, and offers spacious rooms and apartments with traditional decor. The hotel has a large garden with olive trees and a swimming pool.
Best sights on Folegandros
Check out the Venetian Castle located in Chora. This impressive castle dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views over the island and the surrounding sea. The castle is well-preserved and has several interesting features, including a chapel and a cistern.
The Cave of Chrisospilia is located on the southeast coast of the island and is accessible by boat or on foot. The cave is named after the gold and silver stalactites and stalagmites that can be found inside, and has an eerie and mystical atmosphere.
For fans of hiking, Folegandros has several great hiking trails that offer stunning views over the island and the surrounding sea. The most popular trail is the one that leads to the Church of Panagia, which is located on a cliff overlooking Chora. The hike takes around an hour (its harder on the way up!) and offers stunning views over the island and the Aegean Sea.
Best beaches on Folegandros
Folegandros has a small number of beaches set in the rugged coastline.
Agali Beach: Located on the south coast of the island, Agali Beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches on Folegandros. The beach has crystal-clear waters and soft sand, and is surrounded by cliffs and rugged coastline. There are several tavernas and cafes nearby, as well as sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
Livadaki Beach: This secluded beach is located on the northwest coast of the island and is accessible only by boat or by a challenging hike. The beach has stunning turquoise waters and is surrounded by rugged cliffs and rock formations. There are no facilities or services available at the beach, so visitors should bring their own food, water, and supplies.
Katergo Beach: Located on the southeast coast of the island, Katergo Beach is a secluded and pristine beach accessible only by boat or by a challenging hike. The beach has crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by rugged cliffs and a stunning natural landscape. There are no facilities or services available at the beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies.
Agios Nikolaos Beach: This small and quiet beach is located on the east coast of the island, near the port of Karavostasis. The beach has soft sand and crystal-clear waters, and is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape. There are no facilities or services available at the beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies.
Vardia Beach: Located on the west coast of the island, Vardia Beach is a secluded and pristine beach accessible only by boat or by a challenging hike. The beach has crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by rugged cliffs and a stunning natural landscape. There are no facilities or services available at the beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies.
Best restaurants and bars on Folegandros
For its size, Folegandros has a pretty good range of places to eat and that reflects its general ‘upmarket’ nature.
Pounta: Pounta is an attractive venue in Chora that offers a unique and creative take on traditional Greek cuisine. The menu includes dishes like fried zucchini flowers, smoked eggplant dip, and grilled octopus.
Blue Cuisine: Blue Cuisine is a modern and elegant restaurant featuring fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and the restaurant offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea.
O Kritikos: O Kritikos is located in Ano Meria and serves homemade Greek dishes like moussaka, grilled lamb chops, and stuffed tomatoes. The restaurant has a cozy and authentic atmosphere and is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
To Stiho: To Stiho is a cozy cafe and bakery located in Chora that serves delicious coffee, pastries, and light bites. The cafe also offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free options.
Τo Spitiko: Τo Spitiko is a traditional Greek taverna located in Ano Meria that offers homemade dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is known for its delicious grilled meats and seafood.
Read about some of the local foods on Folegandros.
Folegandros is also well set for bars of course – some of the more popular are Blue Bar, Rakentia, Voltes and Zefiros Anemos, all located in the Hora
Island hopping from Folegandros
There’s no airport on Folegandros (not sure I’d ever want to land there if there was!) so ferries are the way to get there – this and its location tends to keep the crowds away.
The best ferry connections are to Milos, Sifnos and Santorini which would all work work well as a contrast to Folegandros.
Check the schedules carefully though – not all the services are daily
Folegandros tips
Check out the Ano Meria bakery on the road to Chrysopigi – choosing what to consume is a tough task!
If you’re at Agali Beach, you can pretty much sit on the sand and enjoy lunch at the Agali Taverna.
For those of you who cant resist a bit of shopping on holiday, you’ll find that Folegandros Hora has a few small boutiques to browse through – Utama, Kalokairi and Malama are three to check out.
