Folegandros is a peaceful island in the Cyclades, located between Sikinos and Milos. Pretty villages with cobbled streets and white and blue houses, beautiful landscapes, beaches, hiking trails… An authentic island preserved from mass tourism that we particularly appreciate. So here’s our best-of list of things to see and do in Folegandros.
Stroll through Chora, the island’s main village
If you’re wondering what to do in Folegandros, don’t hesitate for a second: start by visiting the Chora. This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades. A jewel in its own right, well worth a visit to Folegandros!
Built on the edge of a vertiginous cliff overlooking the sea, the village is entirely pedestrianized and reserved for walkers. The atmosphere is calm and tranquil. So it’s particularly pleasant to stroll around and stop in one of the little squares lined with flowers and tavernas.
And don’t miss the kastro, a veritable village within the village. A pure marvel. We’re particularly fond of this Cycladic version of the medieval quarter: tiny one-storey houses in white and blue, cobbled streets and a sparkling white church. A must-see!
Climb to Panagia Kimissis Church (Dormition of the Virgin)
Another must-do in Folegandros: climb to the top of the hill overlooking Chora to see the imposing white church. Access is via a paved path winding up the mountain (10-15 minute walk). Children love riding donkeys. In fact, it’s usually a lot of fun for them (and saves them the fatigue of climbing).
From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the island, the sea and Chora. During the day, you can admire the sun reflected in the Aegean Sea, and in the evening, enjoy the sunset.
Walking in and around Ano Meria
Ano Meria is a small village on Folegandros. This part of the island retains a rural and somewhat remote feel. Around the village and northwards, we come across donkeys and sheep along the roads, farmers carrying bales of hay and scarecrows in the fields.
The atmosphere contrasts sharply with that of Chora, which is more touristy and “bohemian chic”. It’s easy to see that while most of the inhabitants of Chora make their living from tourism, in Ano Meria they make their living from farming and livestock breeding.
Relax on the beaches of Folegandros
The island of Folegandros boasts some lovely beaches. Some are only accessible on foot via footpaths or by a small traditional boat. Others, however, are served by bus or accessible by car.
- Agios Georgios: a pretty, unspoilt beach accessible by car. With a few trees, a blue-and-white chapel, a couple of fishermen’s cottages… well, what more could you ask for?
- Agios Nikolaos (St. Nicholas): a superb wild cove, certainly our favorite beach on Folegandros. Access is via a path that leads from Agkali beach, up and down in the sunshine. It’s a 15-minute walk, but you’ll be amply rewarded on arrival. It’s a peaceful cove, lined with a few trees to provide shelter from the heat, and with a deep blue sea. There are two tavernas on site, one on the beach serving grilled fish. And the second, Papalagi (+30 694 42 91 988), overlooks the bay and serves fresh cuisine.
- Agkali (or Agali) beach: accessible by car or bus from Chora. But beware, there’s no shade, so it’s best to take an umbrella.
- Livadi: beach accessible by car, bus or on foot from the port of Karavostasis (approx. 1 km). A beautiful stretch of sand (with unfortunately little or no shade). Nearby, you can buy snacks and drinks at the campsite tavern.
- Katergo: located south of Folegandros, this beach is one of the most beautiful on the island. It can be reached by caïque from the port or by hiking trail (approx. 1h walk from Livadi campsite). Along the way, we come across abandoned houses that housed political deportees between 1920 and 1969.
Things to do in Folegandros : Hiking in Folegandros
Folegandros is an island that will delight hiking enthusiasts. There are numerous trails offering splendid panoramic views. But beware of the heat in summer and the steep gradients.
You’ll find a map of the island showing the main trails in Chora’s grocery stores and stores.
What to do in Folegandros Taste the island’s gastronomy
Finally, it’s impossible to spend a holiday on Folegandros without enjoying the island’s gastronomy. After all, you can eat well on this island. And there are plenty of tavernas in Chora. Here you can enjoy one of the local specialties: matsatas (fresh pasta served with lemon or tomato sauce). And to find out more about our favorite restaurants on Folegandros, check out our article on our favorite addresses on the island.
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We hope you enjoy your stay in Folegandros.
To find out more about this island, see also our articles :
- Folegandros, the peaceful island
- Our favourite addresses in Folegandros: hotels, restaurants, shopping
Laure M.
