Discover a scenic Andros Island hike through Dipotamata Valley with historical watermills, birdwatching, and a detour to Faneromeni Castle—perfect for families with kids and nature lovers.

This memorable hiking route on Andros Island offers a little bit of everything: nature, culture, wildlife, and a splash in the sea to finish. Traveling with kids, we chose to shorten the classic Chora-to-Ormos Korthiou route, starting just after the village of Sineti, right at the entrance to the Dipotamata Valley—famous for its traditional stone-built watermills, many of which still stand today.
Guided by Trekking Andros Tours, our journey became more than just a hike. We learned how to identify edible flowers, collect herbs and myristica, and even taste morning glory blossoms! The hike took on a magical quality, especially for the children.
We were also joined by George from the LIFE Andros Program, who spoke passionately about the endangered bird species that call Andros home. He brought binoculars for the kids, offering an interactive birdwatching experience that was both educational and fun.
The route includes a few uphill stretches and passes through sparser vegetation, but the reward is more than worth it: a detour to Faneromeni Castle, perched dramatically above the sea, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean and Ormos Korthiou. The descent was easier, leading us down to the coast and ending the hike on a high note—a refreshing swim at Grias Pidima, one of the island’s most famous beaches, framed by the legendary rock of the same name.