Amorgos Hiking
Hiking in Amorgos: Since the first proper roads were created on the island in the 1990s, Amorgos has been the ideal spot for visitors who enjoy a good trek. Before cars came into existence, donkeys were the primary way of transport on the island, which has led to the creation of numerous quaint paths all over the island. Most of these traditional paths are well-preserved and visitors can enjoy a wonderful hike along them.
Below are the mapped-signposted trails that one can follow on the island.
We recommend that hikers carry enough water, take the necessary sun protection measures and wear shoes suitable for hiking. For the longer trails, it is best to bring food and basic first aid supplies.
• Trail 1 (Palia Strata): Chora - Hozoviotissa Monastery- Kapsala - Asfontilitis - Aegiali
The first trail is the longest, with those who complete it covering a distance equal to half of the total length of Amorgos! The route was used to transport goods from Aegiali to Chora and vice versa. While crossing it you will pass by the island's main attraction, Hozoviotissa Monastery, an abandoned rural settlement called Asfontilitis and many churches, such as Panagia Theoskepasti and Agios Mamas.
Length: 20 km
Duration: 4 hours
• Trail 2 (Fotodotis): Chora - Katapola Port
The second trail is one of the easiest on the island. Crossing it you will find a (now) arid spring and impressive vegetation, as well as the chapel of Agia Irini.
Length: 5 km
Duration: 1 hour
• Trail 3 (Itonia): Vroutsis - Katapola
The third trail connects two of the most important towns of Amorgos in ancient times - Minoa and Arkesini. The trail passes through nature and allows you to visit, among others, the ancient acropolis of Arkesini, the ruins of the Hellenistic Tower and the Ancient Site of Minoa. You also have the opportunity to look out over Naxos and the Eastern Cyclades.
Length: 13 km
Duration: 3.5 hours
• Trail 4 (Melania): Ormos - Lagada - Tholaria
The fourth trail embraces the areas around Aegiali. During your hike in the mountains and valleys of the area, you will encounter a gorge, small churches, the settlement of Stroumbos, the acropolis of ancient Aegiali and many herbs for which Amorgos is famous, such as oregano and sage.
Length: 9 km
Duration: 2.5 hours
• Trail 5 (PAN): Lagada - Epanachoriani - Theologos - Stavros - Metaleio
The fifth trail is one of the most challenging hiking options, as it includes the chapel of Stavros on Krikelos, the highest mountain of Amorgos. Starting from the village of Lagada and passing by the monastery of Theologos, you will follow the steep path that the old workers used to follow to find the old bauxite mine, while from the top of the mountain, you will be able to look out over southern Amorgos and the endless blue waters of the Aegean Sea.
The entrance to the old mine is risky. We recommend not to attempt it, especially if you are alone.
Length: 14 km
Duration: 4 hours
• Trail 6 (Valsamitis): Katapola - Agios Georgios Valsamitis - Agia Marina - Minoa
The sixth trail ranks among the easiest on the island and passes by some of Amorgos' most historic sites, including the church of Agios Georgios Valsamitis.
Length: 5 km
Duration: 2 hours
• Trail 7 (Lagada Mills): Lagada - Aegiali - Aegiali - Bus stop of the KTEL bus
The seventh trail leads walkers to the old windmills that stand above the mountain village of Lagada and offer a wonderful view of the villages of Aegiali. People planning to attempt this trail should be particularly careful, as strong winds blow in the area and the road is quite steep and uphill.
Length: 5 km
Duration: 50 minutes
• Trail 8 (Evangelistria): Xylokeratidi - Nera - Peristeri
The eighth and last trail in Amorgos is a circular route that passes by the Katapola Cemetery, Vigla and the Byzantine church of Panagia Evangelistria. During your walk, you will be able to admire the natural beauty of the landscape and the impressive views of Katapola and the Aegean Sea.
Length: 5 km
Duration: 1 hour