ISLAND

And the boat had set sail for Folegandros...

Time is something not relevant to this alternative destination of  Cyclades. This becomes a  reality by the time you walk  all along the narrow streets and beaches of the island when all its beauty will begin slowly to be unfolded. Very soon you will understand what the locals call the "sunny welcome" when referring to the island.

Usually those who visit it, prefer the mild tourist development. It's the perfect place to relax and escape from the noise and the havoc found in other islands of the Cyclades. While maintaining all the features that hold the rest  islands of the Aegean's complex, folegandros is hopefully not yet alienated. The majority of people also opt for the beaches ,many of which are ideal for camping. However, for those who still prefer the comfort of hotel, there are numerous choices, as the island is fully equipped in terms of  tourist infrastructure. There are hotel accommodations for each "pocket", full packaged.

Tour of the island: forget the usual stuff

The liveliness of the square of Piazza, the view of the castle and the square Ntounavidon are the images that make up the visitor's first impression of his first contact with the island. The main port is located near Karavostasis, but the center of the island is what Greeks  usually tend to call “chora”(capital). The cobbled streets and alleys, as many consecutive squares, a unique feature built in all Cyclades, the houses with the  small whitewashed courtyards and the Castle are the main features of the country.  You don’t have to worry when walking through the narrow streets since vehicles are not allowed .

There, in the centre of the island you will visit the most magnificent church on the island dedicated to the Assumption. Built on a key point in order to overlook the world of Folegandros. Do not consider it as a strange event if it happens to listen to pirate stories and legends associated with which image which many characterize as a miracle!

Even if you forgot it, it is inevitable to miss visiting the Castle, built at a height of 210 meters almost touches the edge of a cliff. It is medieval village and counts more than 10 centuries of life. For this reason it has declared a preserved and protected part of the Inspectorate of Byzantine Antiquities of the Archaeological Service. The houses forming the village are inhabited even regularly and remain in very good condition.

Beaches: code green water

Except Chora, other major settlements on the island are Ano Meria, Karavostastis, and Agali. Clear water, bottom green stone typical of Folegandros, deserted beaches under the shadows of trees, taverns with fresh fish on the sand are some of what you will attend.

The beach of the harbor, Karavostassis, in front of the houses in the village. It is an ideal spot if you have kids with you. You can beneficiate from its shallow water  and calmness since almost never catch a wave. In summer lessons of  swimming and sailing are delivered to the children, on the initiative of the Nautical Group of Folegandros.

Agali is a resort to which you can access by the tourist boat. Little secret: very close to the beach Agali there is a footpath. If you follow it you can you reach in 10 minutes Fira, a small sandy beach with a cave. Following the path to Agios Nikolaos, you will find Galifo where you can live a literally primitive experience, as the few rooms that exist are not yet provided with electricity!

As about the other beaches Livadaki, Vineyard, Voreina and Serfiotiko the access is a bit difficult, but believe me worth it. Where else you will feel shipwrecked and have a  whole beach by your own? Just do not forget to get water!

Local delicacies

Needless to say that the island is famous for its delicious local dishes. Do not leave without  try a local green cheese and the "matsata", a cooked food served in Ano Mera.

Events

People who visit Folegandros during July will have the opportunity to be present and enjoy the famous "Festival of Folegandros (July 8-30), which are hosted in a neoclassical building of primary schools. Specifically this year's program includes screenings "Days of documentaries, folk music by" Musicians of the Aegean, concerts by foreign and Greek musicians, shadow theater traditional performances and a very interesting exposition of astronomy.

How to get there

It lies 104 nautical miles from Piraeus. During the summer season there are frequent  departures from the port of Piraeus. With high-speed ferries, the trip takes 3.5-4 hours. Otherwise the conventional boat reaches to 11 hours depending on what other islands will make a stop. There are also itineraries departing from the port of Thessaloniki.

Useful phones

Citizens Service Center: 22860 27171
Community of  Folegandros: 22860 41285
Port Authority: 22860 41530
Police: 22860 41249
Clinic - First Aid: 22860 41222
Pharmacy: 22860 41540
Taxis: 22860 41408
Bus: 22860 41048

Transactions

Folegandros has no banks. In case you wish to realize any deal it is suggested to realize it  through the postal services of the island and ATMs.

Επιμέλεια: Ξένια Καποπούλου