Andros is the northernmost island in the Cyclades and the second largest at 374 km2.
It is an easy trip from the port of Rafina in Athens-only 1 hour by fast boat or two hours with the regular ferry. This makes Andros an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many Athenians as well as foreign visitors come here for recreation and relaxation.
Andros is the greenest island in the Cyclades. Although the northern part of the island is barren, the south is lush with many trees such as plane trees, cypress, olive, walnut and lemon trees. There are four rivers through the fertile valley and the island is justly famous for its springs. The most famous is the Sariza Spring.
The architecture of the island is unusually varied. There are traditional Cycladic homes but also classical and Venetian structures, particularly in Hora. Known since the old days as , “the island of the captains”, because many early inhabitants went on to become ships captains, Andros benefited from the largesse of these captains and has many examples in the fine homes that these men built in the capital city.
There are many white sand and pebble beaches on the island. Some of the best beaches are not well known with tourists. The most popular beach is Batsi which is also a hub for nightlife, particularly in the high season.
However, Andros has escaped the hyper-tourism of some of the other more famous Cycladic islands and therefore is a peaceful getaway destination. There is just enough tourism to provide the expected amenities but not so much as to become overly commercialized.
This is a lovely island for people who enjoy water sports– sailing, swimming, snorkeling and fishing. The nightlife is varied. The beaches are lovely. It is the best of many worlds.