Administratively, historically, and geographically, Andros belongs to the Cyclades and has several elements that characterise a Cycladic island, but when crossing it, one understands that it is in a category by itself.
To reach Ormos Korthiou, you drive for 45-50 minutes and 37 kilometres, starting from Gavrio, the port of Andros. The impressive route (which develops into a mostly narrow road) unveils the beauty of the island.
With its mansions and other buildings, Chora is one of the most beautiful settlements in the Aegean. You can see mills, stone buildings, and pigeon houses in several parts of the route.
Although some of the drive shows the stereotypical dry Cycladic landscape, a large part passes through green areas, with the different types of vegetation revealing that the island is rich in water.
Perhaps the most sui generis point is Ormos Korthiou, a fishing village with about 500 permanent residents in south-eastern Andros.
Until 2010, it was the seat of the municipality of Korthi, which extended to the southern side of the island. Anyway, Andros is not a mass tourism destination, but especially in Korthi, this sense of calmness and relaxation takes off.
Of course, you can walk along the beach, but one walk definitely recommended is the beautiful marble-paved inner street of the settlement with its well-kept houses and shops.
The atmosphere in Ormos Korthiou is somewhat retro, reminiscent of what life was like in the Cyclades before being smashed by global tourist recognition.
Many travellers to the island visit Ormos Korthiou on their way to the beach of "Grias to Pidima." This is the island's most famous beach, with its trademark 15-metre-high monolith. Its waters are crystal clear and shallow, and the location is wonderful.
To get there from Ormos, you will (also) drive on a dirt road, while on the last part, you follow a downhill path. There is a way to walk from the settlement by following a marked path of moderate difficulty, which you can cross in about 30 minutes.
Perhaps one of the reasons for the beach's popularity is its strange name.
According to tradition, one theory is related to an old local woman who helped the Turks capture the castle of Faneromeni in the village of Kochilos, not far from Ormos Korthiou. Remorseful, she jumped off the hill into the sea and was petrified, creating the monolith.
Other less popular and less imaginative versions say that the woman jumped because she couldn't stand the loneliness or that she killed herself to avoid being captured by the Turks.
A negative aspect of the beach of Gria to Pidima is that the sandy beach is exposed to strong winds.
On such days, go to Agia Aikaterini beach, at the left end of Ormos Korthiou. It is windless, has an excellent view, has shallow water, and is particularly popular with families, as there is a beach bar.
On the other side of the settlement is Mylos, with amazing thick sand and clear blue, calm waters. This particular corner has winds suitable for windsurfing, and in fact, in the summer, there is a school for those who want to learn the exciting water sport.
Accommodation - food
Housed in a 1930s building, Korthion Hotel offers truly spotless and well-kept rooms with sea views, comfortably furnished and air-conditioned, at excellent prices.
At Sea Satin, in a square with plane trees, chef Dimitris Giginis creates unique flavours with raw materials from fresh fish and seafood while using local ingredients, such as Andriot cheeses.
At Zahari aki Alati (Tel: 2282 062345), you can taste well-cooked food and sweets with excellent service next to the sea.
In any case, it is worth exploring the island's gastronomy, which includes meat, fish, and cheese products.
Some useful information and tips for a trip to Ormos Korthiou and Andros
Ormos Korthiou is 37 kilometres from Gavrio, the port of the island, 22 kilometres from Chora and 29 kilometres from Batsi, the most touristically developed settlement in Andros.
Andros is an island suitable for an excursion at the end of the summer, thanks (also) to its many cultural options.
The winds in Chora tis Andros are among the strongest in the Aegean, and having at least one suitable piece of clothing with you is essential.
For the same reason, the choice of beach for your swim depends on the weather conditions every day.
READ MORE: The wonderful Delphic landscape.