Hiking on Andros: Andros Routes, the trails and when to go
Andros is one of the best Greek islands for walking: a waymarked trail network, springs, villages and monasteries, and a short ferry from Rafina. Here is what to know.
- The Andros Routes network covers nearly 240 km of trails (Euronews, July 2026).
- The long Andros Route crosses the island (about 100 km per Greeka) and holds a European certification.
- Best seasons: spring and autumn. Summer is hot, and the meltemi winds blow.
If you want an island with both sea and serious walking, without a domestic flight, Andros offers that mix. Choose a single day stage or walk several days in a row.
What is Andros Routes?
Andros Routes is a trail project started in 2010 by a non-profit, the Andros Research Centre. Volunteers restore, waymark and clear the old stone paths. According to Euronews (July 2026), the network now reaches nearly 240 km, and Andros was the first Greek island to receive the European "Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe" certification. Greeka says the certification was awarded in 2015 by the European Ramblers Association for the long trail across the island.
What do the Andros trails pass through?
The paths link traditional villages, monasteries, ravines and isolated beaches. There are many springs along the way: Euronews reports more than 200 on the island, which is unusual in the largely dry Cyclades. Stages vary from two-hour walks to full days, so you can do one stage a day or cross the whole island over several days.
| Network length | nearly 240 km (Euronews, 2026) |
| Cross-island route | about 100 km (Greeka) |
| Waymarking | signs and numbering along the paths |
| Best season | spring and autumn |
| Maintenance | Andros Routes volunteers |
When is the best time to hike on Andros?
In spring (March–May) everything is green and in flower and the springs are full. In autumn (September–November) the sea is still warm enough for a swim after walking. Summer is very hot at midday and the meltemi winds are strong; if you walk then, start early.
How do you get to Andros?
Andros has no airport. Ferries run from Rafina, near Athens, to Gavrio. According to Ferryhopper (October 2026), the crossing takes 50 minutes to about 2 hours, with up to 11 sailings a day in summer. Details in Rafina to Andros and Tinos ferries. More islands close to the capital: islands near Athens.
Tips for hiking on Andros
- Map: download the trail map or an app before you go; reception is weak in places.
- Water: despite the springs, carry your own.
- Transport: most stages are linear, not loops, so plan a taxi or bus back.
- Car: a rental car helps you reach trailheads.
Planning a walking trip on Andros
For a weekend, use one base and do two half-day stages; for a week, change base once and walk most days. With children, choose short stages ending at a village or beach. Andros pairs well with Tinos on the same Rafina ferry line.
FAQ
How many kilometres of trails are there on Andros? Nearly 240 km in the Andros Routes network, according to Euronews (July 2026).
Are the Andros trails waymarked? Yes. They are signed and maintained by volunteers, but carry a map or app anyway.
Is Andros suitable for beginner hikers? Yes. There are short, fairly easy stages alongside longer, harder ones; choose by distance and gradient.
Can you visit Andros as a day trip from Athens? You can, but it is tight. Stay at least one or two nights to fit in a route or two.
