Folegandros: An Unspoiled Greek Island Paradise

Folegandros Sunset — Folegandros. Credit: Navin75 – originally posted to Flickr as Hora, Folegandros at sunset, CC BY-SA 2.0

Folegandros is a small, quiet Greek island that remains virtually unknown to tourists.

Only an hour by high-speed boat form the popular island of Santorini, Folegandros is for those who are looking to experience a more simple and unforgettable Greek experience.

Folegandros has Cycladic charm

Known for its unspoilt landscapes, Folegandros was named after the son of King Minos.

There are only three small villages on the island. The main village, Chora, is filled with houses painted in white with multi-colored doors and windows, perched high on the cliff above the blue sea.

Folegandros Streets — Credit: Zde – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

There are quaint squares and tavernas, so visitors will not run out of things to do when they are not enjoying the beautiful beaches – which are practically empty!

Some examples of the traditional dishes on the island are “matsáta”, which is handmade noodles with rooster or rabbit, and sourotó, a white goat cheese. A popular drink on the island is “rakómelo”, which is warm raki with honey.

Exploring the Church of the Panagia on Folegandros

Panagia of Folegandros — By Zde – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

You can also explore walking the narrow cobblestone streets throughout the village or take the 15-minute walk up a zigzag pathway to the Church of Panagia.

The church is thought to be built on the site of an ancient temple and although the original date of the construction of the church is unknown, it was renovated back in 1687 and again in 1821.

Chrysospilia is another place that attracts visitors on the island. You will find it below the Church of Panagia, on a rocky beach some 30 meters above sea level with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It is only accessible by boat.

There are ancient male Greek names written on its walls and roof, dating back to the 4th century BC, which makes it a unique cave to visit.

Karavostasi & Ano Meria are full of marvelous beaches

Angali Beach — Angali Beac, Folegandros. Credit: rene boulay, CC BY-SA 3.0

The other two villages, Karavostasi (the port) and Ano Meria, are all connected by paved roads to Chora.

You will find Greek tradition at its best in these villages, with authentic Greek Kafenieia, or cafes, as well as tavernas serving up local dishes.

Karavostasi Beach and Angali Beach are connected by paved roads to the villages. There are also several other beaches you can reach via the public bus.

However, you will find that there are many beaches around the island that will require you to either take a boat or walk in order to reach them.

You can get to Folegandros via the ferry line Piraeus – Milos – Santorini, or by ferries or hydrofoils to Paros, Mykonos, Ios and Sikinos.

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