Exploring Andros’ Hidden Trails: Hiking and walking routes near Ktima Lemonies
One of the most magical ways to experience Andros is on foot, wandering trails that have been walked for centuries. Staying at Ktima Lemonies places you perfectly to explore paths lined with stone walls, wildflowers, olive groves, and a rich variety of plants, reflecting the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Many trails are part of the Andros Routes network, an organization dedicated to preserving historic paths. Thanks to the volunteer efforts of locals and hiking enthusiasts, over 240 kilometers of trails have been restored, waymarked, and signposted to European standards, making them accessible for all ages and abilities—from beginners to seasoned hikers.
Andros boasts more than 500 kilometers of hiking trails, including the renowned Andros Route, a 100-kilometer path stretching from north to south, certified as a “Leading Quality Trail – Best of Europe” by the European Ramblers Association. Trails range from short, easy 2 km walks to longer routes of up to 15 km, winding through lush valleys, ancient stone villages, terraced hillsides, and along streams and waterfalls. Many visitors come specifically to explore these trails, considered among the most beautiful in Europe, attracting hikers from around the world.
The trails also reveal Andros’ unique architecture and traditional stonework—farmhouses, chapels, terraces, and carefully crafted stone steps that blend seamlessly into the landscape. You’ll encounter ancient water channels and streams, flowing through valleys and along old stone walls. As you explore, you will also discover the island’s ancient and beautifully designed watering systems, a testament to Andros’ ingenuity in managing its landscapes over centuries. Along the way, a huge variety of plants, from fragrant herbs to wildflowers and fruit trees, enrich every step.
Andros Route #1 begins at the back of the Ktima Lemonies estate, following an ancient path that has connected the estate to nearby villages for centuries. The walk passes through orchards, olive groves, and gardens, with streams running alongside in several places. Traditional stone walls, terraces, and small chapels punctuate the route, reflecting Andros’ historic architecture.
Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply enjoy walking in nature, the trails around Ktima Lemonies—many maintained by the Andros Routes organization and its passionate volunteers—offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s beauty, history, architecture, and rich plant life up close.
