Ferry to Amorgos

Tucked into the serene embrace of the Aegean Sea, the Greek island of Amorgos offers a pristine paradise where time seems to stand still. Known for its towering cliffs and crystalline waters, Amorgos forms part of the Cyclades archipelago. With its rich history mirrored in charming villages and storied monasteries, this island provides a cultural journey back in time. Outdoor enthusiasts and culture buffs alike will find their paradise amidst these hills and shores.

To reach Amorgos, adventurous souls must first arrive in Athens, the bustling Greek capital. From Athens, regular ferry services run year-round, departing from Piraeus port, whisking you across the Aegean to this offshore sanctuary. Though lengthy at approximately nine hours, the journey offers breathtaking glimpses of the Cyclades along the way. Alternatively, high-speed ferries can cut travel time during the summer months with their swift crossings. 

Explore the Capital: Wander through the charming capital, Chora, with its narrow, winding alleys, whitewashed houses, and traditional Cycladic architecture. Discover hidden squares, small churches, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Monastery of Hozoviotissa: Perched precariously on the cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea, the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa is a breathtaking 11th-century Byzantine monastery. Its unique construction, built into the rock face, and stunning views make it a truly unforgettable sight.

Swim in Turquoise Waters: Located below the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, Agia Anna is a small but incredibly scenic beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters. It's an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing, offering a peaceful escape.

Enjoy Fresh Seafood: Head to one of the island's main ports, Katapola or Aegiali, and indulge in fresh seafood at a local taverna. Try grilled octopus, fresh fish, or traditional Amorgian dishes like "patatato" (goat meat with potatoes).

Discover a Cinematic Landmark: Visit the famous shipwreck of the Olympia cargo ship, which ran aground in 1980 near Kalotaritissa beach. The dramatic sight, enhanced by its appearance in the film The Big Blue, makes for a unique photo opportunity and a reminder of the sea's power.

Explore the Island on Foot: Amorgos boasts a network of well-maintained hiking trails (kalderimia) that connect villages and offer stunning views of the rugged landscape and coastline. Popular routes include the path from Chora to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa or trails leading to secluded beaches.

Archaeological Museum of Amorgos: Located in Chora, this small but interesting museum houses archaeological finds from the island, including pottery, tools, and ancient sculptures, offering insights into Amorgos' long history.

Diving or Snorkelling: Amorgos is an excellent destination for diving and snorkelling with its clear waters and diverse marine life. Several dive centres offer courses and excursions to explore underwater caves, reefs, and even ancient shipwrecks.

Amorgian Rakomelo: Try the traditional Amorgian rakomelo, a warm alcoholic drink made with raki, honey, and spices. It's a comforting and flavorful local speciality, often enjoyed in the evening.

Witness a Sunset: Head to Aegiali, especially during the late afternoon, to witness a spectacular Aegean sunset. The colours painting the sky over the bay are truly magical and a perfect way to end a day on the island.

Spring (April to June) blankets the island in a floral tapestry, perfect for hiking enthusiasts. 

Summer offers sun-drenched beaches and lively festivals: time your visit with the winds of the Meltemi for a pleasant Aegean breeze. 

Autumn (September and October) is equally inviting, with warm seas and fewer crowds.

Winter is quiet, ideal for those seeking solitude amidst stunning views and mild temperatures. 

Language: The official language spoken on Amorgos is Greek. As a popular tourist destination, many locals involved in the tourism industry also speak English, and you might also encounter other European languages.

Currency: The currency used on Amorgos, like the rest of Greece and the European Union, is the Euro (€).

Ancient History: Minoan and Mycenaean Presence: Archaeological findings suggest that Amorgos had a significant presence during the Minoan and Mycenaean periods, with evidence of early settlements and trade routes. The island's strategic location made it an important stop for ancient seafarers.

Ancient History: Kapsala Figurines: Amorgos is particularly famous for the Kapsala figurines, a distinctive type of Cycladic marble figurine dating back to the Early Cycladic II period (around 2700-2300 BC). These abstract human figures are highly prized examples of ancient Cycladic art.

History: Byzantine Influence: Amorgos has a rich history, with significant Byzantine influence. This is evident in the numerous churches and monasteries scattered across the island, many of which date back to the Byzantine era, showcasing impressive religious art and architecture.

Nearest Neighbours: Amorgos is part of the Cycladic island group in the Aegean Sea. Its closest inhabited neighbours include Naxos to the west and Astypalaia to the east.

Cultural Traditions: Music: Amorgos is known for its strong preservation of traditional Greek music. Local festivals and celebrations often feature live performances of nisiotika (island songs) played on instruments like the violin, lute, and tsabouna (Greek bagpipes), encouraging spontaneous dancing and participation.

Cultural Traditions: Drinks: Amorgos is famous for its rakomelo, a warm alcoholic drink that mixes raki (a strong spirit similar to tsipouro), honey, and various spices like cinnamon and cloves. It's a popular local speciality, especially during colder months, and is often offered as a welcoming gesture.

Festivals: Psarotaverna Festival: One notable festival is the Psarotaverna Festival (Fish Tavern Festival) held annually in August in the village of Katapola. It celebrates the island's fishing tradition with fresh seafood, live music, and dancing, offering a vibrant glimpse into local life.

Famous People Born There: While not a large island, Amorgos is the birthplace of Nikos Gatsos (1911-1992), a renowned Greek poet, lyricist, and translator. He is best known for his influential collection of poems, Amorgos, published in 1940, which drew inspiration from the island's landscape and atmosphere.

Amorgos stretches across 48.78 sq mi (126.35 km²), making it a gem not too large to overwhelm but vast enough to explore for days. Travelling around is best done by car or scooter, allowing for discovery cloistered in its winding roads. Public buses offer a more relaxed pace, meandering between villages like Chora, Katapola, and Aegiali. Hiking trails crisscross the island, inviting trekking aficionados to explore its scenic vistas.