Positioned in the southern reaches of the Cyclades and surrounded by the glistening blues of the Aegean Sea, Folegandros is a beautiful and largely undiscovered island, currently emerging as a rewarding and laid-back haven.

Sandwiched between Santorini and Milos, Folegandros presents the same theme of beautiful beaches, breathtaking coastal landscapes and wonderful cuisine as its neighbours. Although not recognised for major sightseeing opportunities, it’s the languid way of life that makes the island so appealing, with its whitewashed houses, colourful fishing boats and dramatic cliffs increasingly serving as inspiration to visiting writers and artists.

Chora, the island’s main settlement, is a charming medieval town set atop a cliff which towers over the sea. Wandering the cobblestone streets opens a window into a bygone era, with the town’s pretty squares, inviting tavernas and appealing shops seemingly stuck in a time warp. It’s also the perfect place to sample some of the island’s traditional cuisine, including matsáta, a delicious pasta dish served with rabbit in a tomato sauce.

Spend your days lazing on one or more of the fantastic beaches on Folegandros, accessing idyllic hidden coves on foot or secluded bays by boat. If you still have ample energy as the evening draws in, don’t miss the chance to soak up the island’s finest sunset spot, enjoyed from the stunning church of Panagia which is accessed by zigzagging mountainside steps.

When to go

Though temperatures remain relatively warm throughout the year, it's during the core summer months, from May to September, when Folegandros experiences its finest weather conditions. Much of the island's tourism infrastructure comes to life from May to September, coinciding with the rise in temperature and visitors.

 
 
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What to do

  • Explore the medieval town of Chora
  • Hike the island’s picturesque donkey tracks
  • Discover the beaches of Angali, Livadi and Agios Georgios
  • Take an island boat tour

Accommodation in Folegandros

Here are some of our travel designers' favourite options