I recently had an incredible opportunity to combine work and leisure by adding a 3 day escapade to the Greek Island of Astypalaia and the “Big Blue” island of Amorgos.
Amorgos Island in Greece is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming traditional villages. From the moment I arrived, I knew I was in for an unforgettable adventure.
For those of you who don’t already know, Amorgos is the Island where the movie “The Big Blue” (Le Grand Blue) was filmed. The Greek Island of Amorgos is locate in the Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades group of islands.
The optimal time to visit Amorgos Island, Greece is during the early months of June or September. These months fall within the shoulder season when the weather is ideal, and the level of tourism is relatively low. Unlike crowded destinations like Santorini, Amorgos offers a more tranquil and high-quality tourism experience without the overwhelming crowds.
Before we move on, ensure you stay safe and secure while travelling. Familiarise yourself with some quick safety tips that is essential for every traveller.
Getting to Amorgos
We all know the very long flight we have to endure to get to Europe from Australia. Thankfully I still travel business & first class for free and I do it travelling some of the best airlines in the world. Getting to Greece can be done either via the Middle East or through Asia, onwards into Europe and then into Athens. When opting for the latter I generally try to get into Istanbul and fly into Greece with Aegean. I do this for two reasons. One because the Turkish business lounge in Istanbul is one of the best i have ever been to and I love going back. Two, because flying Aegean just sets the tone of that wonderful Greek Hospitality you are about to experience. I also love Aegean’s new business lounge at Athens Airport.
Once in Greece, Amorgos is easily accessible by ferry from popular nearby islands like Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos. I prefer flying to Naxos and then taking the Hellenic Seaways Highspeed 4 to Katapola, Amorgos. This ferry is larger, more comfortable, and offers a smoother ride, reducing the chances of seasickness. If you travel from Santorini or Mykonos, you’ll need to board the Seajets, which are smaller vessels that tend to have more movement, especially in rough seas.
During my journey, I continued my bleisure adventure from Astypalaia, another enchanting Greek island, opting for a quick 1.5 hr ride across the Aegean Sea with Blue Star Ferries. The ferry ride was pleasant and seamless, allowing me to enjoy the scenic beauty of the sea as I approached the shores of Amorgos.
Remember – the bigger the vessel the less chances you will get seasick if the waters are choppy. This is more common in the months of July and August. Don’t forget your Dramamine (anti seasick tablets) – a must item to pack as part of your packing list.
The absence of an airport on Amorgos island in Greece is, in fact, a blessing in disguise, as it helps preserve the island’s tranquillity and unspoiled beauty. The journey by ferry offers an opportunity to appreciate the vastness of the Aegean Sea, soak in the breathtaking views, and connect with the surrounding archipelago. It allows travellers to slow down and embrace the leisurely pace of island life, immersing themselves in the natural wonders of the sea.
Car Rental in Amorgos
An absolute must for Amorgos island and one of the first things you should do. A little car will get you to places you never imagined existed.
There are a few rental places around, but let the reviews be your guide and not so much the price.
I chose Etoile de Mer – Rent a Car in Katapola and was happy with the service and the car.
Yes, it is possible to hire an automatic car in Greece! I chose a little tiny Peugeot automatic convertible.
Where to Stay in Amorgos
To experience the local culture and live like a local, I opted to stay at the village of Katapola. The white houses and colourful fishing boats in the harbor were beautiful. The village had a timeless atmosphere, blending old traditions with modern life. I met local artisans who showed me their traditional crafts. It was a glimpse into the rich heritage of Amorgos.
It was during my time in Katapola that I had the opportunity to put my networking skills to work, forging meaningful relationships with local business owners and uncover exciting business opportunities.
I had the pleasure of staying at Eleni on the Beach, located in the charming village of Katapola. I chose this accommodation because of its family-run nature and the desire to experience the authentic local lifestyle, away from luxury and tourist crowds. Eleni’s Room on the Beach offered a budget and a truly immersive experience.
Situated right on the beach, I was treated to breathtaking views of the sunset, and the convenience of being just steps away from a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. The simplicity and warmth of the family-run establishment allowed me to live like a local, savouring the beauty of Amorgos and connecting with its genuine essence.
Where to Eat in Katapola, Amorgos.
There are plenty of choices when it comes to food in Katapola and I tried most!
Morning Delicacies
“To Kamari”, right at the port is the place to get your morning espresso and in house made cheese pie (Tyropita). It is superb – I was there every morning without fail!
Lunch & Dinner
There is one standout place to eat authentic Greek traditional food in Katapola.
Akri Ouzo Taverna was a hidden gem, and a 2-minute walk from our accommodation.
I couldn’t even begin to mention any notable dishes here – they were all fabulous. It was like eating in a Greek home. So good, that we ate here every single night.
At this little gem, run by a mother and daughter, you’ll be treated to some of the most authentic traditional Greek dishes. The preparation of these delightful culinary offerings includes the use of farm-to-table produce and local olive oils. Their warm hospitality is exemplified by their gracious offer to prepare any dish of our choice with just a day’s notice.
Their complimentary “psimeni” was one of the best I have had on the island.
Psimeni
Indulge in a bottle of “psimeni,” the beloved traditional drink of Amorgos. Crafted from boiled and blended Raki, infused with a delightful blend of honey, cinnamon, and cloves, this home-made delight is a must-try during your visit.
Chora
Chora, Amorgos island’s capital is a beautiful village on top of a hill, offering incredible views of the island. The streets of Chora were narrow and made of cobblestones. The houses were white with hues of blue and green, and there were colourful flowers everywhere. The local people were friendly and welcoming. I couldn’t resist trying the delicious local food and wines in the cozy cafes and taverns.
One of the standouts was a little place called Kastanis. The local cuisine was delicious. Notable dishes were their Fava (probably the best I have tasted in Greece), their Eggplant Special in the oven, and their baked sardines. Their service is polite and friendly.
Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
One of the trip’s highlights was the visit to the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, a unique monastery constructed on a cliff. Getting up and back is quite a walk, but the effort is worth it. Upon arrival, monks greeted us and provided water, psimeni, and traditional “loukoumia” as a generous gesture (These treats were splendid and provided a delightful sugar boost for descending the steps!).
The views from there were breathtaking, and I felt a sense of peace and calmness. It was like a magical place frozen in time.
Agia Anna
Agia Anna, where “Le Grand Blue” movie was filmed, was a beach that left a lasting impression. It featured rugged cliffs, blue waters, and if you swim out enough and look up, you can see the monastery on the cliffside. Simply gazing at the mesmerizing waters and observing others enjoy them was fulfilling enough; I didn’t even need to take a dip. It truly was a breathtaking place.
Kalotaritissa Beach
Located at the tip of the island, Kalotaritissa Beach in Amorgos is a peaceful and beautiful spot by the sea. The beach has soft golden sand and clear blue water, creating a relaxing and stunning setting. It’s a hidden gem where you can escape and enjoy the calmness of nature. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, or simply take in the amazing views, Kalotaritissa Beach offers a memorable experience surrounded by the natural beauty of Amorgos. You need a car to get there!
It is an organized beach with sunbeds to rent for the day at around 6 – 10 Euros per day (depending on the season), a canteen with food, drinks and toilets.
Along the way, you’ll pass the famous shipwreck of Amorgos and small villages with charming local cafes and restaurants. Once you reach Arkesini, a must-visit is a tavern called “Katomeritissa,” where you can indulge in traditional Greek food and some of the best desserts on the island—if not in all of Greece! Unforgettable dishes include the zucchini fritters (kolokithokeftedes), and for dessert, don’t miss their Vyzantino and the chocolate pie. I’d happily travel all the way back to Amorgos just to eat there again.
A little further up, you’ll find signs pointing to “Ston Pyrgo,” another traditional Greek tavern known for its excellent food. Their standout dish is the meatballs (keftedakia), served with hand-cut chips. Their vine leaves are in fact the best i have ever had.
Departing Amorgos
I was out of time to visit the rest of Amorgos, something I intend to do on my next visit. The Botanical garden of Katapola, Aegiali with its surrounding villages will be next on the list as locals highly recommend visiting this part of Amorgos.
As my time in Amorgos came to an end, I reflected on the impact the island had on me. Its untouched beauty, warm hospitality, and authentic charm left a lasting impression.
Upon leaving, I made the decision to depart directly from Katapola, and I chose the Hellenic Seaways Highspeed 4 as my mode of transportation. The ferry journey took approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes and included a quick stop at Koufonisia. (Another majestic island and another advantage of taking the ferry – you get to take in the never ending beauty of the Aegean and its gorgeous islands.)
Upon arrival in Naxos, I had the convenience of catching a quick and well-connected flight back to Athens, seamlessly concluding my bleisure journey with ease and efficiency. I have one more stop to make with my qantas reward points and then it’s time to head on back to Melbourne where a cold winter awaits, but an exciting month ahead as I am ready to sit back and enjoy the Women’s FIFA World Cup which is being hosted by Australia & NZ. I am a passionate follower of the Matildas and a supporter of women’s football and all sports.
Amorgos reminded me of the importance of balancing life and work, and finding beauty in the simple things. It was an extraordinary experience that I’ll never forget.
