Philosophy

Andros has an impressive network of footpaths of over 300klm in total length. The network is scattered all over the island and connects old settlements with farm lands, holy places, ravines, valleys, ports and shores. About 160km of hiking routes are fully way marked and sign posted according to European standards.

Its exploration offers a rich experience to hikers.

In 2015 “Andros Route”, a continuous hiking route of about 100km, received the distinguished quality certification “Leading Quality Trails- Best of Europe” from the European Ramblers Association !

Visit the special section of our website for the certified Andros Route with all details on each daily section here : https://www.androsroutes.gr/andros-route/ or visit our website section for day hikes here https://www.androsroutes.gr/nl/overview-page/

Path maintenance

Andros amongst the best of Europe for hiking Andros has an impressive network of footpaths of over 300klm in total length. The network is scattered all over the island and connects old settlements with farm lands, holy places, ravines, valleys, ports and shores. Its exploration offers a rich experience to hikers. About 160km of hiking routes are fully way marked and sign posted according to European standards. In 2015 “Andros Route”, a continuous hiking route of about 100km, received the distinguished quality certification “Leading Quality Trails- Best of Europe” from the European Ramblers Association !

Visit the special section of our website for the certified Andros Route with all details on each daily section here : https://www.androsroutes.gr/andros-route/ or visit our website section for day hikes here https://www.androsroutes.gr/nl/overview-page/

Research

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Team

Nature & Biodiversity -Andros is the northernmost, second largest, greenest and among the Cycladic islands closest to the Greek capital, with a surface area of 384km2 and a coastline of 148km. It is unigue among the Cycladic islands because of its plentiful water reserves, mountainous terrain, sharp relief and extremely varied scenery. Small forests, fertile valleys, numerous beaches, ravines where water flows all year, gushing waterfalls and springs are to be found in almost every slope and valley. The coastline has more than 70 small and larger beaches. Areas comprising almost half of the island are designated Natura, Important Bird Areas (IBAs) or wildlife sanctuaries, where many rare or endemic species of flora and fauna find refuge.

An ancient, man-made landscape- Human presence in Andros has probably been continuous since the 4th century B.C. with numerous settlements developed over the course of time. The human presence has left signs visible even in the remotest and steepest parts of the island, with stone as the raw material in a man-made landscape. The variety of rural architecture is quite astounding: dry stone walls, terraced hillsides (“emasies” in the local dialect), oil mills, threshing floors, more than 200 recorded water mills, 69 windmills, scores of stone bridges some of which are arched and hundreds of rural chapels are scattered everywhere around the island.

Supporters

People & occupations- Agriculture, stock farming, silk production and shipping have been the main occupations of the inhabitants for centuries. About 9000 people (2011 cencus) live on the island today and in their majority are occupied in services, construction, agriculture, live stock farming and fishing. Tourism development on Andros has been rather limited compared to the other islands of the Cyclades. Due to Andros’ proximity to Athens, many vacation homes have been built, whose residents revive the local economy and community during week-ends and holidays.

Culture & activities -Andros has many important archaeological sites most of them open and under excavation. Many of their findings are exhibited in the 2 archaeological museums. There is also a maritime Museum, 2 folklore Museums, the Olive Museum, a contemporary digital Museum, an accessible cave, and several historical monasteries and Castles. The Kairis Library holds many important documents from Andros’ history. Numerous cultural events and festivals are organised mostly during the summer period. There is a wide range of activities that are available for visitors. For example, organised hiking routes, bicycle tours, scuba diving, sea tours, sports, cooking lessons and lessons on how to make local products as well as local products tasting events.

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