ANDROS

Andros (from the Greek Άνδρος) is the second largest and the northernmost of the Cyclades islands and can only be reached by sea because it does not have an airport. The island is 89 nautical miles from Piraeus, 36 from Rafina, 7 from Euboea, and less than a mile from the island of Tinos.

It has an area of 380 km² and about 10,000 inhabitants.

The island is predominantly mountainous, with Mount Petalon, about 1,000 meters high, as the highest peak on the island. Unlike most of the Cyclades, Andros has many forests, valleys, vineyards, olive groves, orchards, and especially an abundance of water. On the island, there are even mineral water springs. A large valley runs through it from east to west. Although essentially rocky, Andros has beautiful beaches nestled between rocky areas.

The island's architecture is not typically Cycladic; in fact, the houses are not all white, and with the blue domes of the churches standing out above the roofs: there is more variety of styles and less charm. Also on this island, there are many medieval dovecotes and unique, ancient stone walls found throughout Greece.

Among the island's most renowned products are excellent thyme honey, oil, and walnut nougat.

The capital of the island is Andros, but the main port is on the opposite side of the island, in Gavrio, in a more sheltered area from the winds.

The inhabitants of the island are essentially seafarers; several are shipowners. Tourism has arrived recently and is mainly concentrated in the western area of Batsi.

The clear sea of the island, like all the Cyclades, is exposed to the winds but there are also sheltered and very beautiful beaches.

The island's road network is good, apart from the northwestern area. All the main centers are well connected to each other by local buses. On the island, there are several car and scooter rental agencies and taxi services.