Hike to the Gerolimni waterfall on Andros Island - a hidden gem

Writer: Helena Bergström

The Gerolimni waterfall, on the island of Andros in Greece, was for a long time a place known only to locals. Now it's possible for tourists to hike here - and perhaps, in true Tarzan spirit, swing from a vine into the water - but it's still a quiet, peaceful and scenic little gem, unknown to most.

Gerolimni waterfall

The Gerolimni waterfall is not very big, but the surrounding nature makes the place unique and almost paradise-like. Most of the islands in the Cyclades archipelago, which includes Andros, are characterised by relatively dry environments. Andros stands out as an unusually green island, with many water holes.

The Gerolimni waterfall is located just north-west of Andros town (Chora) on the island of Andros in Greece.

An exciting drive to the start of the walk

While it is technically possible to get to the Gerolimni waterfall on your own, if you are not familiar with the island, it is not recommended, as it can simply be difficult to find your way. We therefore had to go with the company Explore Andros on a guided tour.

Normally, as a tourist, you probably jump into one of the Explore Andros cars, and follow the guides to the start of the tour. In our case, the experience was booked at the very last second, when the group was already on the way, and we drove in our own rental car to the small turn-off, where we had to follow the Explore Andros car.

"If you can't drive here, I can jump in and drive your car," the guide said. So, what? After a while we understood the guide's comment - parts of the road were heavily rocky and it was challenging to drive our little Fiat over the rockiest parts, but after a while of very slow driving we arrived.

At the car park we greeted the rest of the group - young Greek tourists - and took our small backpack containing swimwear and a water bottle. Since the hike for us was decided hastily and hilariously, at a meeting with Explore Andros in a café in Andros town, none of us had planned the "outfit of the day" with hiking in mind... For my (Helena's) part, it was hiking in a dress, and it was pure luck that I had at least timed the dress with a pair of trainers...!

Nice hike to the waterfall

Then it was time for the walk! It was an incredibly beautiful walk, on paths and rocks along a deep river channel, lined with greenery.

Nature here offers an exciting landscape with imaginatively shaped boulders and crooked trees. Here and there, water ripples, and every now and then a goat jumps out from behind a boulder.

Here and there you can see the historic stone walls typical of Andros and other islands in the area. These walls are built without mortar and are often found on slopes, in the form of 'terraces'. In fact, the knowledge, tradition and techniques of these walls have been formalised as an intangible cultural heritage site by UNESCO, entitled "The art of dry stone walling, knowledge and techniques".

The hike itself was neither particularly tough nor long, although it must be said that it includes some high steps and balancing on rocks. Here and there, the guide extended a helping hand, while happily telling us about the nature and the area.

Gerolimni waterfall

After maybe an hour of slow and peaceful walking, we arrived at the small waterfall, where we posed for some photos before settling down on a rock and just enjoying the surroundings.

The water was currently around 19 degrees and it's six metres deep, so it's great for both swimming and jumping. We were content to cool our feet in the refreshing water, but several of the younger ones in the group wanted more adventure.

A rope with a vine hangs from a tree, and here it was popular to swing out, and then straight into the water with a loud splash.

Hiking back

We probably spent an hour or more hanging out at the watering hole, and it was a really relaxing and nice time. When it was time to hike back, we went almost the same route, but the guide occasionally chose slightly different paths, which meant that we got new nice views.

More to see and do in the neighbourhood

There is, of course, much more to see and do on Andros Island. Not far from the Gerolimni waterfall you'll find the pretty town of Andros Town and it is also cosy to visit the resort Batsi, with all its restaurants. If you like hiking, Andros is a great place to go. There are plenty of certified and clearly signposted trails via Andros Routes. Also don't miss all the beautiful beaches on Andros!