Island Folegandros, Cyclades Folegandros (Φολέγανδρος) is a small barren rocky island with an area of surface area is about 32 km2 E of Milos and S of Serifos. The used to be one of the most isolated islands in Greece where political exiles were sent, as recently as during the Junta of the Colonels (1967-72). Also, its town Chora has some of the best examples of Cycladic architecture. Unfortunately, the island has been discovered and its 600 hundred inhabitants multiply many times over every summer with tourists, complete with bars, discos etc. Still, it does have wonderful architecture and one can take many nice walks in its stark terrain. Folegandros gets its name either from the son of King Minos of Crete or from the Phoenician word Phelekguduri meaning rock-built. Charts: BA: 1037 Nisís Falkonera to Nísos Ios Imray-Tetra: G33 Southern Cyclades (West) NIMA 54320 Kiklades Nisoi to Kriti Greek: 415 Ydra to Sikinos Radio Nets: Goast Guard - VHF channel 12 Olympia Radio - VHF channels 26 & 87 Approach and Navigation: Danger: The approach to Karavostasi, the only harbor in the island, can be dangerous because there are several reefs and strong gusts during a meltemi. Night approaches are not recommended. Berthing Options Ports: Karavostasi 36°36.8′N, 24°57.1′E Karavostasi (Καραβοστάσι - ship port) is the port of the island and its only a somewhat secure anchorage. While you can anchor off, it is not safe with a strong meltemi. It is best to go stern-to the quay, where there is space for around eight yachts on the outside. The bottom is sand and rock and does not always hold. Make sure that your anchor is secure before leaving your boat to go to Chora. With Southerlies, it is best to anchor off or go stern-to inside the mole. Warning: Watch out for the Dhio Adelphia rocks and for a rock just above the water about 50 m E of the mole. Caution: With a strong meltemi there is a very uncomfortable swell. Marinas & Yacht Clubs: None. Anchorages: Port Vathi 36°37.8′N, 24°53.6′E Port Vathi or Angali is a large bay on the S side of the island, E of Cape Aspropounda. This bay receives very strong gusts and with the meltemi an appreciable swell. It is not very secure when the meltemi blows. Anchor off the hamlet in 4-5 m. The bottom is sand and weed; good holding. Offshore Islands None. Yacht Services and Repairs: Marine Stores None . Repairs/Yards None. Fuel, Water, & Electricity: Fuel N/A (Not Available) Water N/A Electricity N/A Things to do Ashore: Tourism: The main point of interest is Chora with its fantastic architecture. In Chora there is a small Folkloric Museum. Near Chora there is the church of Panayia which is built over a sheer cliff right over the ancient temple to Artemis. Legend has it that the church was looted by pirates who stole the icon of the Virgin. As the were getting away their boat capsized and they were drowned. The icon returned to the foot of the cliff. Every year the islander take the icon for a tour of the island to commemorate the miracle. Under the church there is a large grotto Chrissospilia (Golden cave) with stalactites and ancient inscriptions. Again legend has it that Barbarossas treasure is buried within the grotto but no one has ever found it. Grocery & Supply Stores: There are a couple of food stores in Karavostasi and one good bakery. Eateries: The Folegandros in Chora is recommended O Kritikos also in Chora is recommended Internet/WiFi Available Laundry None. Motorbike & Car Rentals N/A. Garbage Disposal There are bins around the harbor.
Posted on: Fri, 16 Jan 2015 10:54:19 +0000