Whenever I find myself gazing out at an expanse of blue, I feel an overwhelming urge to freeze that moment in time, to capture it in my memory forever. That’s exactly what I experienced every sunrise and sunset during my stay at a hilltop hideaway in Andros, a highly underrated Greek island just an hour away by ferry from Athens.
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As a travel editor for Condé Nast Traveler, I spend a significant amount of time scouting exceptional rental properties around the world. When I stumbled upon the breathtaking Aegean-blue vista from the bedrooms of host Dimitris’s Cycladic oasis, I knew I had to book it immediately. And so, I called up my best friend Claire, and we secured our spot at this incredible hillside home.
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Andros: A Hidden Paradise
Andros, it turns out, is a wildly beautiful island that seems to be visited more by Greeks than international tourists. The island is characterized by its lush green landscapes, mountainous terrain, and abundant sheep population. Renting a car is relatively easy, but getting around requires a bit of extra effort, especially if you’re interested in exploring the more rugged, far-off beaches.
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As we made our way to our rental, located in the Kalamaki settlement of Andros, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. But by the end of our stay, I had grown accustomed to the winding, rocky roads and the stunning views that unfolded beyond our windshield.
The Hilltop Hideaway
Our hillside home was a true gem, offering breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea from both bedrooms. The property was tastefully decorated with a minimalist aesthetic, featuring antique pieces and a stunning carob tree that provided shade for the patio. The two whitewashed bedrooms were self-contained, each with its own bathroom, and the property boasted a full outdoor kitchen with a brick oven, hot plate, and refrigerator.
One of the highlights of our stay was the opportunity to forage for fresh ingredients from Dimitris’s garden. Every morning, we would enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring fresh tomatoes, sesame bread, Greek yogurt, and sweet apricots purchased from the nearby port town of Gavrio. The semi-private beach we shared with a neighboring property was another standout feature, offering a secluded cove surrounded by marble-esque rocks and calm water that seemed impervious to the island’s strong winds.
The property’s housekeeper, Chara, was a godsend, visiting daily to clean our rooms and ensure that our stay was nothing short of perfect. And it was indeed perfect – a true reflection of the Blue Mind Theory, which suggests that being near water can calm the brain and promote a sense of well-being.
Our days were filled with exploration, as we made our way to the nearby beach of Achla, celebrated as one of Greece’s most beautiful. The beach was a treasure trove of natural wonders, featuring a pair of mystical swans surfing the cove’s gentle waves. And for lunch, we would head to the homestyle restaurant, Aegean Balcony, where we would feast on souvlaki and gaze out at the breathtaking view of Andros’s western coastline.
As the sun began to set, we would make our way to the capital of Chora, a marble-lined city that seemed to transport us to a bygone era. And from there, we would spot the iconic Tourlitis Lighthouse, a true symbol of the island’s rich history and culture.
Looking back on our stay, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Andros. This hilltop hideaway was a true gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and relaxation. And as I reflect on my time on the island, I am reminded of the power of travel to transform and renew us.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Andros has something to offer. So why not discover the hidden gem of Andros for yourself? Book your stay at this incredible hillside home and experience the beauty and tranquility of this underrated Greek island.
