FOLEGANDROS | GREEK ISLANDS | CYCLADES
Narrow, medieval streets among the unusual fortress-like houses and a view of the infinite blue seascape.
The town of Folegandros is one of the most enchanting of all the Greek islands. Peaceful holidays with romantic strolls along the narrow, medieval streets among the unusual fortress-like houses and a view of the infinite blue seascape. Folegandros is our top choice amongst the quieter islands. Its principal attraction is the exquisite Hora, where you’ll spend most of your time. Book a room there in advance, take some good books with you and relax in one of the charming squares with the delightful cafes and traditional Greek tavernas serving snacks and tit-bits.
FOLEGANDROS IN BRIEF
The population of Folegandros is about 800. It is a rocky, infertile island, with spectacular cliffs sheer to the sea. The climate is mild, with scant rainfall and windy in summer. The Romans used the island as a place of exile. In the 13th c. it devolved to the duchy of Naxos under the sovereignty of the Venetian Marco Sanudo. It was frequently raided by pirates and in 1617 passed into the hands of the Turks, who went there only to collect taxes. In 1828, together with the other Cyclades islands, it was incorporated with Greece.
WHAT TO SEE & DO IN FOLEGNDROS
FOLEGANDROS HORA
One of the loveliest Cycladic towns, built in and around the island’s medieval fort, at the edge of a steep cliff. Ideal for walks along its alleyways and for whiling away your time under the trees of the pretty squares full of local colour such as Dounavi Square with three wellheads and its churches, Manolis’s square, Kritikou or Kontarini Square. Stroll in the lanes of Kastro, the medieval defence settlement built in 1212 by Marco Sanudo, the governor of the Aegean duchy. The church of Christos or Pantanassa is in the fort at the edge of the cliff. The church of the Panagia (Kimissis Theotokou) is the most striking church of the island, multi-domed, with a bell-tower, it dominates the peak of Paleokastro above Hora.
CHRYSSOSPILIA
A beautiful big cave at Paleokastro, with stalagmites and stalactites, which was an ancient place of worship. Access by caique, or by a steep path.
ANO MERIA
Sparsely populated farm settlement built for protection from the winds. See the traditional self-supporting farmstead comprising a dwelling, cultivated garden and auxiliary buildings.
KARAVOSTASSIS
The island’s only port. A small village with hotels, tavernas, shops and a beach with a few trees.
BEST BEACHES IN FOLEGANDROS
Most of the beaches are accessible only on foot or by caique from Karavostassis. The best beach which also has the easiest access, is Katergo one of the most famous beaches of Folegandros. Don’ t forget to be equipped because there are no services on the beach. Then there is Angali in Vathy bay, with tavernas and the only beach with a road. Choclidia is next to the port of Karavostassis with deep blue waters, trees and tavernas. If you have time, visit the sandy beach of Livadi and Agios Georgios.
FOLEGANDROS TIPS & INFORMATION
HOW TO GET T0 FOLEGANDROS
By ferry from Piraeus, Piraeus Port Authority, tel. 0030 2104226000.
By air from Athens, El. Venizelos airport to Santorini with Aegean Airlines.
From Santorini to Folegandros by ferry.
CONNECTIONS FROM FOLEGANDROS
By ferries from Folegandros to Paros, Naxos, Ios, Sikinos, Santorini, Anafi, Kythnos, Serifos, Sifnos, Kimolos, Milos, Folegandros Port Authority tel. 0030 2286041530
HOW TO GET AROUND IN FOLEGANDROS
A central road connects the villages with Hora. There is a bus, so your car is not necessary. Anyway, most beaches are accessed by caique.
BEST SEASON TO VISIT FOLEGANDROS
Easter in Folegandros is exceptionally lovely. Naturally so is summer, with the exception of August.
LOCAL FOOD & PRODUCTS OF FOLEGANDROS
Try matsata, (traditional home-made pasta with rabbit), especially in Ano Meria.
Buy ladotyri (oil-preserved cheese), anthotyri (soft, white cheese) and thyme honey.
FOLEGANDROS USEFUL TELEPHONES NUMBERS
Folegandros Community Office 00302286041285
Folegandros Police 00302286041249
Folegandros Clinic 00302286041222
Folegandros Taxis 00302286041048
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