Folegandros

A clifftop Cycladic island whose white Chora perches on 200-metre sea cliffs—far quieter than Santorini, with boat trips and hikes to hidden coves.

Folegandros lies in the southwestern Cyclades between Milos and Santorini. It covers about 32 square kilometres and has fewer than a thousand permanent residents. The island is long, narrow and mountainous; its northeastern sea cliffs rise over 200 metres, and the main town, Chora, sits right on the clifftop, preserving the Venetian-era Kastro quarter—the atmosphere is far quieter than Santorini. The best time to visit is June–September, when the sea is warm and ferries run frequently; July–August is the busiest and most expensive, while May and October offer pleasant weather and fewer people, though some businesses and boat trips are closed. When the strong summer north wind (the meltemi) blows, ferries may be delayed. The island divides into three areas: Chora and the Panagia church, for the white town and sunsets; the southeastern port of Karavostasis and its surroundings, plus Katergo beach, reachable only by boat; and the farming villages of Ano Meria in the west, with beaches such as Agali and Livadaki. Getting around is by island bus (linking the port, Chora, Ano Meria and Agali), rental car or scooter, and water taxi; many beaches require a downhill hike. Ferries from Piraeus take about 5–10 hours, or about 1–2 hours from Santorini or Milos. Allow 3–4 days. There is no airport or large supermarket on the island, ATMs are few, and accommodation should be booked well ahead in high season.

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