Folegandros is a place where donkeys still carry goods through narrow streets, and neighbours greet each other warmly in the town square. (Image: folegandros.com)
Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Folegandros is a hidden treasure that remains untouched by the trappings of mass tourism. Unlike Mykonos and Santorini, this quiet Greek island offers an escape to a simpler, more authentic way of life—one that harks back to the 1950s.
Folegandros is a place where donkeys still carry goods through narrow streets, and neighbours greet each other warmly in the town square. With its pristine whitewashed villages, colourful bougainvillaea, and cobbled paths, the island captures the timeless charm of traditional Greece.
The pace here is unhurried, perfect for those looking to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with something more genuine.
At the island’s heart lies Chora, a hilltop village that feels like stepping into a storybook. Its pedestrian-only streets are dotted with tavernas serving homemade Greek specialities, boutique shops, and quaint churches. By night, the main square comes alive as locals and visitors dine al fresco under the stars, creating an atmosphere that feels as warm as the island itself.
The pace here is unhurried, perfect for those looking to disconnect from the modern world. (Image: folegandros.com)
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Chapel in Folegandros at sunrise. (Image: Getty)
Chora’s unique setting, perched high on a cliff, offers panoramic views of the Aegean Sea—views that rival Santorini but without the crowds.
Folegandros is home to some of the most secluded and untouched beaches in Greece. Many are accessible only by foot or boat, adding to their charm. Katergo Beach, with its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, is a highlight, offering an oasis of tranquillity far from bustling holiday resorts.
The island’s rugged landscape also provides the perfect backdrop for hiking enthusiasts. Trails wind through rocky terrain and fragrant herbs, leading to breathtaking vistas and hidden coves.
Food lovers will be delighted by the island’s culinary simplicity. Local dishes, such as matsata (a handmade pasta served with rabbit or chicken) and souroto (a tangy goat cheese), showcase the best of Folegandros’s farming traditions. Meals are often prepared using ingredients sourced directly from the island, ensuring every bite is as fresh as it is flavourful.
Chora square in the summer, Folegandros. (Image: Getty)
Dining here is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that embodies the warm hospitality of the locals.
Folegandros remains a well-kept secret, partly because it lacks the flashy attractions of larger islands.
The island has no international airport, and ferry connections are limited, but this inaccessibility is part of its charm. Those who make the effort to visit are rewarded with an island that feels like stepping into a time capsule, where tradition and tranquillity reign.
If you’re tired of crowded resorts and overdeveloped tourist traps, Folegandros could be your dream destination—a little slice of Greece where time truly stands still.
The most convenient way to get to Folegandros is by ferry from Athens. Ferries depart from the ports of Piraeus and Lavrion in Athens. There are usually up to two daily ferry crossings, but the frequency depends on the season.