📍 Amorgos belongs to the Cyclades Islands and is located southeast of Naxos towards the island of Astypalea.
✔ Amorgos is magnificent island with amazing beaches, picturesque villages, fantastic natural landscapes, fascinating gastronomy and exceptional hospitality!
▪ One of the most beautiful greek islands! Top 3 greek island for me! 💙
▪ Very hilly island, elongated and narrow, you get the impression that you are at an altitude of over 1000m, although the roads go to a maximum of 500-600m.
▪ Untouched by mass tourism, Amorgos is the perfect holiday destination for those who seek privacy and peace, as well as for nature lovers!
▪ A place where tradition and authentic Greece are preserved, where there is no mass tourism and that’s the charm!
▪ Amorgos inspired the famous French director Luc Besson to shoot most of the movie “Le Grande Blue” here.
🎬 Le Grande Blue (The Big Blue)
▪ This movie inspired and me so much as a child that I decided to visit the magical Amorgos!
▪ An interesting anecdote ➡ When asked why I came to Amorgos and to my explanations, most of them said: “You didn’t come here by chance! And whoever sets foot for the first time, always returns.”
▪ That’s right! I returned 4 times more and I’m planning a few times more! One of my favorite islands for which I have special feelings! 💙
Magical Tradicional Chora
Island’s capital Chora is one of the most beautiful villages in the Cyclades!
The traditional medieval village is located 400m above sea level!
A fairytale, magical and picturesque place surrounded by windmills! Above the Chora dominate imposing Venetian Castle from the 13th century, which rises on the rock!
Walking through Chora is a specific mystical visual experience! It’s like stepping into a dream and imagining a perfect Greek village with traditional whitewashed houses with colorful shutters and narrow cobbled alleys, picturesque squares and beautiful churches surrounded by Bougainvillea and flowers!
The architecture of Chora is unique in the Cyclades. Each location is very picturesque. The view from the castle to the magical Chora stands out. You should also visit the picturesque windmills, which offer a magnificent view.
Chora has many traditional taverns, cafes and charming shops that fit perfectly with the ambiance and they are decorated with style and passion.
Perfection at every step! Wherever you step, you can notice the specific artistic personal stamp of people who appreciate beauty and art.
People who live on Amorgos and Chora should be singled out in particular! People are extremely hospitable, generous, charming, relaxed, cheerful, smiling, with a sense of humor and connoisseurs of art and culture…
Near Chora is the famous monastery of Hozoviotissa and Agia Anna beach with wonderful water and turquoise blue. One of the sights and locations you should visit Amorgos!
Famous Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
Famous Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
Located on Amorgos and it’s one of the most beautiful and impressive monasteries of the Christian world! It is nestled high among the steep bare cliffs of the Prophet Elijah mountain 300m above the sea!
It was originally constructed in the 9th century and renovated in the 11th century by the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Comnenus. It is dedicated to the Panagia, who is also the protector of the island. Her Holy icon was brought by the monks by ship from the monastery in Palestine.
The magnificent monastery was built on the steepest rock on the cliff and is only visible from the sea! An example of human triumph over nature! It is 40m long and 5m wide. It has 8 floors that are connected by stairs carved into the rock. It is mostly built of stone and limestone from island Milos.
The monastery of Hozoviotisa is the pride of Amorgos! It has a rich collection of icons, relics, books and portraits of monks. The monastery offers a spectacular view of the perfect and endless blue of the Aegean Sea! A divine sight that will leave everyone breathless!
Top 10 Amorgos beaches
Amorgos is a magnificent island with wonderful and scenic beaches with fantastic natural landscapes and crystal-clear water!
Most of the beaches are pristine and secluded, surrounded by stunning wild beauty with incredible transparent deep blue water. Ideal for swimming, diving, and enjoying in the mesmerizing natural setting!
Only a few beaches are partially organized with facilities.
Top 10 Amorgos beaches. My recommendation! ⬇
1️⃣ Mouros
2️⃣ Agia Anna
3️⃣ Maltezi
4️⃣ Levrossos
5️⃣ Kampi
6️⃣ Ammoudi
7️⃣ Psili Ammos
8️⃣ Aigiali
9️⃣ Kalotaritissa
🔟 Mikri Vlihada
Agia Anna beach
Located near the monastery of Hozoviotissa.
Amazing beach with turquoise blue sea and impressive rocky surrounding!
Crystal clear water where you can see the bottom even at great depths! Ideal place for swimming and snorkeling!
All around there is a view that leaves you breathless! While swimming you can enjoy the spectacular view of the monastery of Hozoviotisa which is carved on a steep cliff!
The small church of Agia Anna is built on a rock next to the sea, after which the beach is named.
Cult movie “The Big Blue” from 1988. was shot here.
The beach has two parts separated by rocks, and on the second part, striking scenic rocks stand out.
Above the beach, there is a bar where you can refresh yourself and enjoy in the divine landscape and the view of the endless blue of the Aegean Sea.
Kampi beach
An exceptional pebble beach surrounded by high cliffs with scattered rocks around and crystal-clear deep sea.
An ideal beach for swimming, diving, and enjoying in the impressive surroundings and the stunning view of the magnificent Hozoviotissa Monastery on a steep cliff.
A pristine, wild landscape for complete isolation and privacy, as it is harder to access via a stone path from the nearby Agia Anna Beach. Perfect for adventurers and naturists!
Mouros beach
It is located 15 km from the capital Chora.
Spectacular beach with exceptional turquoise blue water! My favourite on Amorgos!
Pebble beach located under imposing cliffs with several stone formations around the coast.
On the right side there are naturally formed caves ideal for exploring, swimming and diving!
Katapola
The main port and the main tourist spot along with Aigiali, which is the island’s second port.
Katapola is a picturesque settlement located in a large bay protected from the winds.
It is divided into 3 parts, 2 of which are separated by a large beach with a promenade and trees providing shade.
The architecture of the place is traditional Cycladic, with white houses and narrow winding streets adorned with lovely flowers and greenery that enhance the beautiful ambience.
The area where the boats dock has a small charming square with taverns, cafes, and pastry shops. It is a popular evening gathering spot where you can enjoy in exceptional local food with a view of the anchored boats.
On the hill above this part is the beautiful church of Agios Nikolaos.
The central part of the settlement, where the bus station is located, is called Rahidi. The impressive church of Agios Georgios is located there.
On the other side of the bay is the picturesque part called Xilokeratidi, with wonderful taverns and bars located right next to the sea.
As you sit and enjoy in the enchanting ambiance with a view of the adorable boats floating in the clear blue sea, you realize that you are in the perfect place!
Locations near Katapola. ⤵
Maltezi beach
Incredible sandy beach surrounded by rocks with soft golden-yellow sand and wonderful turquoise-blue crystal-clear water!
A beach for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying in the irresistible surroundings. The type of beach that is simply adored!
Maltezi is 2 km from Katapola, accessible via an easy walking path that passes through part of Xilokeratidi and further through a delightful landscape by the sea.
There is also a water taxi boats connecting the beach with Katapola port throughout the day.
There is a beach-bar and a section with umbrellas on the beach.
Ancient Minoa
On the hill above Katapola port, 2.5 km away, lie the ruins of ancient Minoa.
A historical landmark of an advanced civilization from the Geometric period, dating from the 10th to the 4th century BC.
This valuable site offers an impressive view of the bay where Katapola is located.
The road further leads to the small settlement of Lefkes, where there are 3 solid beaches – Foinikies, Lefkes, and Agia Saranta.
Agia Saranta beach
The most beautiful of these 3 beaches due to its nice natural surroundings and the small church after which the beach is named.
The demanding mountain trail that starts from Katapola leads further to the ancient Arkesini…
Island Tour
For a complete experience of the magic of Amorgos, I recommend a full tour of the island, its wonderful beaches & fantastic natural landscapes, picturesque mountain villages, and island landmarks.
The magnificent island can be explored by hiking on numerous exceptional trails that stretch across the island, as well as by some form of transportation.
Starting from Katapola port, the first location is the magical capital of Chora, which is located on the hill 5 km from the port.
After Chora, which I have detailed, the tour continues to the northeast of the island. ⤵
The main road passes through stunning landscapes at a high altitude, offering a view of the surrounding area and the neighboring island of Nikuria.
Agios Pavlos beach
After an 11 km drive, you reach the pebbly Agios Pavlos Beach, with a great view of the island of Nikuria.
Nikuria is an imposing uninhabited island with a peak of 365m and a few excellent untouched beaches, that can be reached by boat from Agios Pavlos beach.
Aigiali
After a 5.5 km road along the sea, you reach the island’s second port, Aigiali, the main tourist spot along with Katapola on Amorgos.
Aigiali is a beautiful, picturesque village located in a large bay surrounded by high mountains.
You should walk around a lovely place and enjoy in the scenic details, as well as try delicious food in a local tavern.
Aigiali has a large sandy beach with turquoise blue water and lots of greenery that provides plenty of shade. The beach is popular and organized with restaurants & cafes and ideal for families.
Numerous hiking trails lead from Aigiali to villages in the hills, as well as to great beaches. ⤵
The following is a description of 3 beaches in a row that can be reached by foot from the port.
Levrossos beach
Levrossos beach can be reached by car, or with an easy walk from the port.
Incredible sandy beach with yellow sand and turquoise transparent water and a wonderful view of Aigiali Bay.
The beach is surrounded by plenty of greenery and flowers, adding additional charm to the irresistible ambiance. An ideal beach for nature lovers and swimming.
There is also a tavern on the beach where you can try delicious local dishes.
Psili Ammos beach
After Levrossos beach, a short walking path leads to the next Psili Ammos beach.
An excellent beach surrounded by rocks, with fine gravel and crystal clear water, for relaxing in an untouched setting with a beautiful view of Aigiali Bay.
Hochlaka beach
The hiking trail continues to the third Hochlaka beach. An isolated pebble beach surrounded by rocks, for lovers of peace and privacy.
On the hills above Aigiali port, there are 2 picturesque traditional villages – Lagada & Tholaria. ⤵
Lagada
A traditional village located on a mountain and surrounded by lush greenery.
A gem of enchanting beauty with white Cycladic houses and narrow paved streets adorned with delightful flowers create a striking visual experience.
For me personally, the most beautiful village along with the capital Chora! On the small square, there are the picturesque churches of Agia Sofia and Agia Haralambos, along with a monument to fallen soldiers for the homeland.
Lagada is the starting point for the great hiking trail No. 5 – Pan, which leads to the top of Amorgos, Mount Krikelos at 821 meters.
Trail 5: Stavros Church and the Top of Mount Krikelos
Hiking along the Pan trail, which leads to the Stavros Church and the highest peak of Amorgos – Mount Krikelos at 821 meters, is a unique adrenaline-filled experience that will delight all lovers of nature and hiking.
This amazing mountain trail No. 5 starts from the traditional village of Lagada. After leaving the village, the ascent begins, and the trail passes through an impressive natural landscape full of greenery.
The effort of the climb is eased by the fantastic scenic view from above over the entire Aigiali Bay and the surrounding imposing mountains – a breathtaking sight that is remembered for a lifetime.
Panagia Epanochoriani Church
After starting on Trail 5 from the village of Lagada, after approximately 2 km you will reach a turnoff leading to the Panagia Epanochoriani Church.
This wonderful white church with a blue dome is located on a slope above the village, surrounded by a lovely landscape with plenty of greenery, which further enhances the enchanting atmosphere of sacred place.
Agios Ioannis Theologos Monastery
After the crossroads, the trail continues through a landscape rich in lush vegetation and soon reaches a small nice chapel.
From there, a path branches off toward the lovely monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos, which is situated on a gentle hill.
After this section, a serious ascent follows, offering true enjoyment of the striking mountain scenery and a view back toward the church on the hill.
You then reach the most challenging part of the trail – One of the hardest and most demanding trails I’ve ever hiked in Greece! A narrow path passes right alongside impressive vertical cliffs, directly above a terrifyingly steep cliff, about 700 meters above sea level!
While the adrenaline rushes through the body, the blood freezes in the veins from excitement, and the stunning ambience inspires and uplifts – it is worth stopping, taking a deep breath and surrendering to the spectacular view of the blue abyss of the Aegean Sea stretching out before you!
Stavros church
After passing the narrow path that follows the edge of the cliff, you reach the stunning church of Stavros, situated on a dramatic steep cliff, just above a dizzying abyss and the endless expanse of the Aegean.
The majestic view from 720 meters leaves you breathless – The impressive white church with its stone-paved terrace and the awe-inspiring wild landscape create one of the most striking scenes on Amorgos!
While the pulse calms down, and spiritual peace and serenity take over in front of the divine beauty, one wonders about the origin of this Sanctuary, which is an incredible human achievement – the triumph of will, faith and perseverance over harsh nature.
Inspired and enchanted by the sight, following is the confirmation of the personal impression that magical Amorgos has stolen my heart and high rating on my list.💙
🏔️ Top of Mount Krikelos
From the Church of Stavros, there is no clearly marked trail leading to the top of Mount Krikelos, the highest point on Amorgos at 821 meters above sea level.
However, those who dare to adventure can follow the beaten track and an informal trail that leads to the very top of the island with a gentle ascent.
From where there is a stunning panoramic view of the island’s surroundings and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea.
Tholaria
On the other side of the bay where Aigiali port is located, on the slopes of the mountain, lies the traditional village of Tholaria.
Lovely Cycladic ambience with a fascinating panoramic view of Aigiali port and the impressive surrounding mountains.
On the central square is the imposing church of Agioi Anargiroi.
Mikri Vlihada beach
An exceptional hiking trail starts from the village, passing through an stunning wild landscape to the excellent isolated Mikri Vlihada beach. A true adventure for lovers of pristine nature!
The following is a description of the southwest of the island after the capital of Chora. ⤵
Agios Georgios Valsamitis
The main road passes through amazing landscapes at a high altitude. After 4.5 km, on the right side is the beautiful church of Agios Georgios Valsamitis from the 17th century.
Located at the top of a hill in an impressive natural setting with lush vegetation. An ambiance that emits mystery and tranquility.
The church can also be reached by an excellent hiking trail from the Katapola port.
Arkesini
The road continues and passes by the most beautiful beach of Muros, and leads to the small mountain village of Arkesini, where you’ll find the nice church of Agios Onoufrios.
Nearby there are the ruins of the ancient settlement of Arkesini, which can be reached by a challenging hiking trail from the Katapola port.
Ammoudi beach
Near the village is an excellent secluded beach surrounded by cliffs, with scenic rocks in the water and deep transparent sea. An excellent choice for lovers of untouched nature and diving.
Kalotaritissa beach
The road continues through the village of Kalotaritissa to the far southwestern location, where the picturesque bay and beach of Kalotaritissa are located.
Kalotaritissa is a nice sandy beach with yellow sand and turquoise clear shallow water.
The beach is organized with a bar and umbrellas, and the colorful landscape is embellished by the adorable boats floating in the calm bay.
Opposite the bay is Gramvousa Island with an excellent beach, which can be reached by boat from Kalotaritissa beach.
Navagio
The famous cove from the movie “Le Grande Blue”, where the wreck of a merchant ship that sank in 1980. is located.
It is worth visiting this attraction to evoke fond memories of the iconic film.
Paradeisa beach
Nearby, there is also this small beach located in a small bay.
