Remote and rugged, Folegandros sits on the southern edge of the Cyclades group. This tiny 12km long island has an usual history, in that it was used as a site of exile from the Roman era until the 20th Century. It is now, however, a charming and relatively uncrowded destination, ideal for those seeking a quieter escape in the popular Greek Cyclades. A growing selection of accommodation options include superb seaside suites as well as some striking clifftop hotels, highlighted by our Gurus in their list of the best places to stay in Folegandros.

Most travellers will arrive in the charming harbour of Karavostasis, which has a lively buzz in the evenings, and offers some excellent tavernas specialising in fresh seafood. Head inland to Hora to amble along cobbled lanes lined with medieval buildings, admire the Venetian castle, or pick a perch in a taverna on one of the central squares. The Folklore Museum of Folegandros, on the outskirts of town, is well worth visiting. To the north, Ano Meria has a quieter feel, with farms and traditional homes surrounded by rocky landscapes.

Folegandros' beaches are the island's real draw. Top spots include Angali beach, a pale sandy scoop hugged by boulders, and Chochlidia beach, known for its deep blue waters, perfect for swimming and kayaking. Dramatic Katergo is another wonderful beach, reachable only by boat — what better reason to take a sailing trip? Recharge in style at the best places to stay in Folegandros, many of which are appealingly family-friendly.

The Best Places to Stay in Folegandros

For Seaside Style

• Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites is a lovely seaside offering, overlooking the Aegean at Paralia Agkali. Modern rooms and suites have monochromatic interiors and private terraces. The Mediterranean restaurant is a big draw, and the ocean mere metres away. Lovely.

For Families or Groups

• Themonies Luxury Suites offers a collection of self-catering apartments, with space for 2 to 4 guests. The larger suites are ideal for families, who will appreciate the flexibility of being able to cook, or to kick back at the coffee shop and bar. Restored agricultural buildings with a real sense of charm, these are a wonderful fusion of traditional island architecture and contemporary comfort.
• Anemomilos Apartments boast dramatic ocean views from their hillside setting. Low blue and white buildings, centred around an original windmill, have crisp, clean interiors with blue-painted shutters and flexible options for families. The stone-cut swimming pool and snack bar are a convivial gathering place for friends and families.

For Boutique Luxury

• Anemi Hotel, set just outside Karavostasi, feels more like a resort than a hotel. A whitewashed, indulgent escape, this hideaway boasts elegant suites with private pools. The team will happily arrange diving, snorkelling, tennis, fishing and other watersports for guests of all ages. This is a honeymoon favourite, but the children's pool, playground and cinema also make it enormously appealing to families. Five star style.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Athens International Airport, and hop aboard a ferry from Athens to Folegandros, or fly to Santorini's Thira International Airport and take a much shorter ferry from there.
• There's plenty to see if you're keen to explore Folegandros independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures reaching around 28°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay on Santorini.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Cyclades.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Folegandros