Explore the wild beauty of Andros with a family-friendly hike from Vourkoti to Agios Nikolaos Monastery and Achla Beach. Swim in river springs, discover hidden lakes, and enjoy one of Greece’s top beaches. Part 1: VOURKOTI TO AGIOS NIKOLAOS MONASTERY (via Achla River & Gerolimni) – A Wild, Unforgettable Trek Through Andros’ Lushest Landscape This is the hike to remember—a real adventure for nature-loving families! Starting from the mountain village of Vourkoti, we set off with a dozen excited kids, some as young as 5, exploring one of Andros’ most magical natural areas: the Achla River valley, home to the largest plane tree forest in the Cyclades. The trail runs alongside the river, with multiple opportunities to dive into crystal-clear spring pools (vathres), swim, and cool off under the shade of ancient trees. The path itself is challenging and unmarked, with large boulders and natural obstacles that often require climbing more than hiking—making it ideal for adventurous families. Our reward? A visit to the stunning hidden lake of Gerolimni, where older kids and parents alike took the plunge, jumping off rocks into the icy water below—an experience that quickly became a core memory for everyone. The Achla River area is also a protected biotope, offering a rare mix of wild nature, rich biodiversity, and a true sense of discovery, all just a short distance from the Aegean coastline. Part 2: AGIOS NIKOLAOS MONASTERY TO ACHLA BEACH – A Gentle Descent to One of Greece’s Best Beaches On a second day—or as a continuation—the journey continued from Agios Nikolaos Monastery down the easier, southern part of Route No. 6, toward the famous Achla Beach. While this section is much easier and well-marked, it’s worth noting that it offers little natural shade, so hats, water, and sunscreen are musts—especially with children. Once at Achla Beach, the magic continued. Regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Greece, it’s where the river meets the sea—and the kids got to swim in both! After a refreshing dip, we followed a short woodland path inland and were surprised by a serene encounter with swans gliding peacefully along the river—an unexpected, fairytale-like ending to a day full of wonder. Highlights: – Swim in natural river pools under ancient plane trees – Adventurous hike: unmarked, rocky, and fun for agile kids & teens – Gerolimni Lake: cliff jumps and icy dips in a hidden mountain oasis – Achla Beach: pristine waters, soft sand, and top-ranked coastline – Spot local wildlife: swans, birds, and forest critters – Ideal for active families, nature lovers, and photographers