Exploring Amorgos: A Greek Island Gem
Amorgos, an easternmost Cycladic island, has quietly enchanted travelers for decades, thanks in part to Luc Besson’s ethereal film "The Big Blue". This cinematic masterpiece showcased Amorgos's surreal landscapes and crystal-clear waters, drawing Gallic yachters and adventurers seeking serene beauty.
For seasoned Greek island explorers, Amorgos intrigued visitors, meticulously plan their journeys from Athens, eschewing direct flights to Mykonos for more adventurous routes. Bus rides to Piraeus port and leisurely ferry voyages south provide delightful preambles to Amorgos adventures.
Arriving in Katapola, one of Amorgos’s two diminutive port towns, travelers are greeted by a laid-back atmosphere and the promise of epicurean delights. The island’s cuisine—a blend of fresh seafood, hearty stews like patatato, and local cheeses like xynomizithra—quickly surpasses expectations. Dining at places like Sunset Seaside Village and the family-run taverna Ston Pyrgo offers authentic culinary experiences against scenic backdrops.
Amorgos’s pristine and varied beaches, from the popular Kalotaritissa Bay with its Caribbean-like sands to the secluded Agios Pavlos and picturesque Maltezi coves, cater to all tastes. Hiking enthusiasts relish treks to Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery, perched dramatically on the island’s eastern cliffs, offering panoramic views and a chance to mingle with friendly monks over a glass of psimeni.
The island’s charm extends beyond its beaches and cuisine to its sleepy villages like Chora, Tholaria, and Langada—each adorned with whitewashed buildings, bougainvillea-draped alleyways, and a pervasive tranquility. Despite a population of just 1,900, Amorgos warmly embraces visitors, valuing personal connections over commercial gain.
Whether drawn by Amorgos’s cinematic allure, culinary treasures, or timeless landscapes, a visit promises an authentic Greek island experience like no other. Discover why Amorgos, with its untouched beauty and genuine hospitality, stands as Greece’s best-kept secret.
Travelers eager to experience Amorgos firsthand can opt for direct flights to Athens via British Airways, with buses connecting Athens International Airport to Piraeus port. From Piraeus, SeaJets and Blue Star Ferries provide foot passenger services to Amorgos, docking at Katapola and Aegiali respectively. Accommodation options range from the charming Pension The Big Blue in Katapola to the luxurious Aegialis Hotel & Spa in Aegiali, catering to varied preferences and budgets.
Prepare to immerse yourself in Amorgos’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality—an unforgettable journey awaits on Greece’s easternmost gem.