If you’re looking for the authentic, “Mamma Mia” style Greece experience, look no further than Folegandros. This incredible island also has a unique history that is a pleasure to explore and unpack.
Folegandros has been inhabited for at least 3,000 years. According to the legends, Folegandros was first inhabited by shepherds from West Greece who worshipped the goddess Artemis. The island is believed to be named after its first settler, Prince Folegandros, the son of King Minos of Crete (take a look at our Crete holidays if you’d like to visit Prince Folegandros’s original home). In 1204 the island was conquered by the Venetians. Local hero and nobleman Markos Sanudos built the famous castle of Folegandros to protect the inhabitants from attacks from pirates. Finally, Folegandros was under Turkish domination until 1828, at which time it was freed and attached to Greece. During the 20th century it was a place of exile for political prisoners. As you can see, the island of Folegandros has a fascinating and colourful history. If this interests you, also take a look at our Naxos holidays and our Athens holidays.
If you’re looking for the authentic, “Mamma Mia” style Greece experience, look no further than Folegandros. Eight miles long, three miles wide, with just one main road snaking through it, this tranquil island represents one of the most enchanting aspects of Greece. There is no hustle and bustle – just sparkling waters, one of the best-preserved medieval villages in the Cyclades and glorious sunsets that rival Santorini’s.
It’s this peace and tranquillity that brings visitors to Folegandros again and again. While most Greek islands offer a degree of calm and serenity most won’t find in their home countries, many guests consider Folegandros even more relaxing than the other islands they’ve visited. Compare the peacefulness of Folegandros against the rest of our Greek islands and mainland holiday destinations. And please get in touch if you have any questions.
Karavostasis is the island’s port town, which is a very quiet fishing village with a pebbly beach and some awesome seafood restaurants. Check out Blue Cuisine for delicious specialities, such as goat souvlaki and amazing fish carpaccio, paired with excellent wines, in chic surroundings.
Ano Meria is a cluster of old farmhouses and ancient ruins in Folegandros that sit atop a hill. You’re likely to spot residents riding their donkeys along the terraced fields and octopus drying on the lines outside the village’s few restaurants. Ano Meria also has an interesting Ecological and Folklore Museum that documents life on the island throughout the centuries.
Chora is picture-perfect Greece at its best, with a medieval castle and whitewashed houses set around squares draped in bougainvillea. Tavernas spill onto streets, locals play backgammon in traditional bars, and mesmerising views of the Aegean surround you.
A beautiful bar with beautiful people and a beautiful view. If you are a wine lover, Wine Bar Merkouri is a 5-minute walk from central Chora. Peaceful, romantic, and offering an outstanding selection of wines to savour.
Papalagi sits almost like a treehouse far up on the rocks, entirely open on all sides, with big tables laid upon wooden planks, huddles of diners emitting moans of delight as the owner brings out melopita pie stuffed with cheese and honey, and platters of perfectly grilled octopus tendrils.
Matsata is the island’s specialty dish, which is a fresh pasta made with a red sauce and chicken, rabbit or goat, where the meat literally falls off the bone.
A lovely beach with just a few boats and a couple of great tavernas with owners so friendly that if you visit a second time you’ll be welcomed back like old friends. Angali means ‘hug’, and the rocky cliffs surrounding the sand and pebble beach give the appearance of enveloping it in a big hug.
If you’ve seen the movie Mamma Mia, you might remember the scene where they follow a winding path up to a bewitching little church on top of a rocky outcrop? Just on from Chora you’ll find Folegandros’ very own version: the windswept and isolated Church of Panagia; which, at 300 metres above sea level, has breathtaking views of the island. The twisting, 15-minute climb up to it feels incredibly romantic, and the lack of crowds makes it all-the-more special.
Top tip: take a drink up with you to toast one of the most glorious sunsets Greece has to offer!
The best way to see more of Folegandros is to take one of the boat trips that go all around the island, stopping off at idyllic bays for swimming and snorkelling off the back of the boat. You’ll see the Chrysophilia cave where the local people used to hide from pirates; with walls covered with graffiti dating from the 4th century BC. Another beach only accessible by boat is Katergo, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. This small sand and pebbly beach is towered over by granite rocks, with more ‘mermaid’ rocks scattered in the sea, which make excellent launch pads to dive into the crystalline aquamarine waters.
Would you like to find out more about this destination or speak with one of our Epicureans about the best options in Greece? Reach out to one of our experts who can tailor an unforgettable experience that will be the envy of your friends.