02The long read
When to go, and why.
The Seasonality of Hiking
The primary allure of Amorgos is its trail network, the "Blue Paths." These trails traverse the spine of the island, offering sweeping views of the "Big Blue." Consequently, the best time to visit is dictated by thermal comfort. April, May, and October are the golden months for trekkers. During these periods, the island is green, the herbs (sage, thyme, oregano) are fragrant, and the sun is forgiving. Attempting the hike from Chora to Aegiali in August is not only grueling due to the heat but can be dangerous for the unprepared.
Navigating the Meltemi
Amorgos is exposed. The island’s orientation makes it susceptible to the Meltemi winds in July and August. While the southern coast (Mouros, Agia Anna) offers some protection, the ferry crossing can be rough. The legendary Express Skopelitis, which connects Amorgos to Naxos and the Small Cyclades, is a lifeline but can be a roller-coaster ride during Force 7 winds. Visitors prone to seasickness should aim for September, when the winds typically subside, or ensure they book the larger Blue Star Ferries for their arrival.
Cultural Peaks
The island comes alive during Easter. The revival of Byzantine traditions, where locals whitewash the streets in anticipation of the Epitaph procession, offers a deeply authentic experience. For those interested in cinema, the summer months often feature open-air screenings of The Big Blue, the Luc Besson film that put Amorgos on the map.
