I visited Amorgos several years back…not knowing what to expect as I had never heard anyone really talk about this island.   I ended up completely infatuated by the place…definitely one of Greece’s best kept secrets and one of my favorite islands of all.  There is something uniquely magical about Amorgos that I can’t quite put my finger on…but it’s unlike any other island I’ve visited in Greece.  It has a natural ‘rugged’ beauty, stunning mountains with massive rocks, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful beaches (many of which require an effort to get to)…and then there’s the sea…the famous “Big Blue”.  If you haven’t seen the 1988 cult classic ‘The Big Blue” by Luc Besson, try to watch it before you visit Amorgos.  The movie was partly filmed there and showcases the deep ‘big blue’ sea in a way that will make you want to see this magical place for yourself.  My absolute favorite place was Agia Anna Beach, where you can swim out into the ‘Big Blue’ and look up to see the incredible Hozoviotissa Monastery above you…sitting 300 meters above sea level literally hanging on the cliff-side.  Surreal.  A walk up the 300 steps to visit the Monastery is also a must…and well worth the effort.

The ‘Chora’ (main village) sits 400 meters above sea level, nestled in the mountains under a giant rock on which sits a Venetian castle – ‘The Kastro’.  A stroll around the medieval village takes you on a trip back in time with its traditional architecture and white-washed houses.  A labyrinth of narrow winding alleys open into beautiful large squares with small cafes shaded by giant eucalyptus trees.

Amorgos is a large island and is only accessible by boat….something that has prevented the island from getting too touristy.  There are two ports – Katapola and Aeigiali.  Katapola is closer to the ‘Chora’ and Agia Anna Beach, whereas Aeigiali is more of a beach destination with the one 5-star resort on the island (Aeigialis) – which incidentally has an amazing spa!  There are no hotels in Chora, but plenty of rooms to rent.

Here are some of my favorite photos from this magical place, starting with Katapola and Chora:

Next, my absolute favorite place on the island…the most unforgettable experience…Agia Anna Beach and Hozoviotissa Monastery…

Next, Mourou Beach…a wonderful pebble beach known for its turquoise water and caves.  The coastline is ruggedly beautiful with imposing rocks coming out of the sea.  There are a couple of caves on the right, perfect for exploring.  Mourou Beach is located 15km south of Chora and requires a 10-minute walk along a small path.  There’s a small taverna at the top where you can grab some refreshments.

Finally, the other side of Amorgos – Aeigiali Beach.  This is the other port in Amorgos and has a lovely beach and great restaurants…as well as the only 5-start resort on the island.

Final words on Amorgos…this island is truly magical.  Its raw natural & dramatic beauty is … well…incredible.  I had a very hard time deciding on the final photos for this post…I had so many amazing shots…even with my old iPhone phone camera…but I was so enamored with this island…and vow to get back there very soon.