The best hiking trails in Amorgos
Hike more, worry less!
Are you heading to the hills at every chance? Autumn is the perfect season for hiking in Greece and Amorgos is a perfect blend of idyllic beaches and mountainous landscapes. So, note down the four best hiking trails in Amorgos and follow the path leading straight to the island!
The small church of Saint Nicholas in Asfontilitis overlooking the Aegean Sea
1. From the enchanting Chora to Katapola
First on the list of the best hiking trails in Amorgos is the "Photodotis" route which starts from Chora and ends in the port of Katapola. It is an easy route of only 4.5 kilometers and it lasts about 1 hour.
You will walk towards a cobbled path starting from the capital of Amorgos following the deep, fast-flowing stream of Kato Phylladi.
A little further down, you will come across the white small church of Panagia Fidopotamiani with its green wooden door. There, you can stop for some water and enjoy the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Then, you will cross the area of Fonias only to reach a beautiful glade full of grass and wildflowers to cool off for a while. Finally, you will pass through the olive grove of Gialina and reach the port of Katapola.
The whitewashed houses in Chora, the capital of Amorgos
2. From Katapola to the Ancient Minoa
Leaving behind the quaint port of Katapola, we take an easy circular route of 4.5 kilometers that takes about 2 hours ending in the Ancient site of Minoa.
After you have packed some water and some energy bars with you, climb up to the Monastery of St. George Valsamitis which stands there since the 16th century.
There, the nun that lives in the Monastery will welcome you with a smile and a treat. Then, after passing through the springs with the gushing waters, you will find yourself in front of the chapel of St. Marina.
You will know that you have reached the end of the route once you see ancient Minoa with the ruins of the settlement on the hill above the port of Katapola.
Tip: an impressive vaulted Mycenaean tomb has been found in the area which you can visit before taking the way back.
The quaint port of Katapola in Amorgos
3. From Lagada to the old windmills
This short 50-minute route starts from Lagada in the northern part of Amorgos! The path is short but uphill (we warned you😛) so it would be great to warm up your muscles before ascending the hill.
There, you will meet the chapel of the Holy Cross with its impressive frescoes. A little further down the path, you will also see the highlight of this hiking trail, the old windmills. This spot is picturesque, instagrammable and it offers panoramic views of the Aegiali area and the Aegean Sea.
The impressive old windmills in Amorgos
4. From Chora to Aegiali
We saved the best for last! It is probably the most beautiful (and longest) hiking trail in Amorgos as it covers a large part of the island and is known as the palia strata. It means the old route as it was the only means of communication between Chora and the settlement of Aegiali for quite a long time.
Starting from the historic settlement in the capital of Amorgos, you will walk towards the Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa. However, to reach it, you will have to take a deep breath because 300 steps are standing between you and the monastery.
Don't lose heart though! The stunning views from the all-white Monastery, which has been perched on the steep rock since 1088, will surely compensate you! Then, you will continue towards Kapsala, and a few kilometers from there, you’ll come across the "Hotel"(Xenodoxeio), the ruins of a medieval inn.
Next, you will reach Asfontilitis, an abandoned rural settlement, and the beautiful church of St. Nicholas. From there, you will head towards the end of the hiking trail in Aegiali!
Tip: the 20-kilometer path is quite demanding and takes about 4-5 hours. Take some water, some energy bars, and a small first aid kit in your backpack, and make sure to wear suitable shoes and clothes.
The all-white Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa in Amorgos
Now that you know the hiking trails of Amorgos backwards and forwards (almost), there is nothing that can keep you away from the island! Book your ferry tickets to Amorgos at Ferryhopper with no hidden fees, put on your hiking shoes, and enjoy your hike!
Tip: if you are looking for hiking trails close to Athens for a weekend getaway, you can explore the best hiking trails in Aegina.
