Pithara Waterfalls: Andros’s Secret Cascades and the Island That Runs on Springs
A short, verdant hike to spring-fed pools that reveal a greener side of Andros
You arrive at Pithara Waterfalls after a road that narrows and sheds asphalt for shadowed stone—an old island way where citrus trees lean toward the sea’s light and the air smells faintly of wet rock. The first sound of water comes before the falls do: a distant, granular murmuring that grows until the gorge opens and the cascade throws itself into a green bowl. Moss clings to tufa-covered ledges; a narrow track hugs the canyon wall. For a moment you stand where the island has been shaped by running water rather than wind or salt, and the falls feel like an overdue secret: intimate, persistent, and entirely alive.
Trail Wisdom
Start early
Begin in the morning to avoid heat and crowds and to see the falls at their freshest with fuller flow in spring.
Sturdy shoes with grip
Trail sections include wet rock and stone steps—shoes with good tread reduce slips and make rocky approaches easier.
Bring cash and snacks
There are no services at the trailhead; local villages nearby may have only limited hours for cafés or shops.
Respect private terraces
Trails pass through agricultural land—close gates, stick to paths, and don't disturb crop areas.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A short upstream pool with shallow terraces—often quieter than the main plunge pool
- •A nearby spring-fed grove where locals collect fresh water and wild thyme grows
Wildlife
kingfisher, common frog
Conservation Note
Stick to marked paths, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing springheads—these small freshwater ecosystems are fragile on island systems.
Andros’s freshwater springs have historically supported agriculture and settlements; water management shaped many terraced landscapes and footpaths you use today.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: full water flow, wildflowers, cool hiking
Challenges: muddy sections, occasional swollen streams
Spring is peak for the falls—expect high flows, blooming flora, and pleasant temperatures for hiking and swimming.
summer
Best for: swimming, long daylight, combining with beaches
Challenges: reduced water flow, heat in exposed sections
Summer offers warm pool water and beach combos, but flows can drop; go early to beat heat and crowds.
fall
Best for: milder weather, autumn colors, fewer visitors
Challenges: shorter days, occasional rain making trails slick
Fall provides comfortable hiking temps and quieter trails—water levels rise after autumn rains.
winter
Best for: dramatic runoff after storms, wild solitude
Challenges: cool temperatures, limited access on rough roads
Winter can bring powerful flows and near-empty trails; pack warm layers and check road conditions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support help on wet rock and uneven trail sections.
Water bottle (1–2 liters)Essential
No on-site water refill—stay hydrated, especially in warm months.
Lightweight swimwear and quick-dry towel
Bring if you plan to swim in the pools; towel for drying and for sitting on rocks.
Polarizing filter or sunglasses
A polarizer reduces glare and deepens water colors for both seeing into pools and photographing them.
Common Questions
How hard is the hike to Pithara Waterfalls?
The main route is moderate—roughly 2–3 km round-trip with 100–200 m elevation change depending on the path; there are some steep or rocky sections but no technical climbing.
Can you swim in the pools?
Yes; spring-fed pools are often swimmable in late spring through summer, but check flow and depth locally before diving.
Is there an entrance fee or guided access?
There is typically no entrance fee; the falls are a natural site accessed by public or community paths. Local guided hikes are available through Andros outfitters if you want a deeper local perspective.
Are trails well-marked?
Signage can be minimal; follow cairns, local footpaths, and maps from village centers. A GPS or offline map helps if you plan detours.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes for families with older kids comfortable on uneven terrain; keep close supervision near water and on slippery rocks.
How do I get there from Chora?
By car it's typically a 30–45 minute drive depending on route and road conditions; local buses may run seasonally but a rental car or taxi is more convenient.
What to Pack
1) Water bottle (1–2L) to stay hydrated; 2) Sturdy trail shoes for wet rock and roots; 3) Swimwear and quick-dry towel for pools; 4) Sunscreen and hat for exposed approaches.
Did You Know
Andros is the northernmost island of the Cyclades and is known for having more springs and running water than most Cycladic islands, which is why it supports waterfalls like Pithara.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Rent a small car for flexible access; 2) Start hikes before 10am in summer; 3) Carry cash for village shops; 4) Check local bus schedules in shoulder seasons.
Local Flavor
After your hike, seek a taverna in a nearby village for horiatiki salad, grilled fish, and a glass of local wine—Andros’s culinary scene uses island greens and fresh seafood, often with recipes passed down generations of seafaring families.
Logistics Snapshot
Distance from Chora: ~30–45 min drive. Trail: 2–3 km round-trip. Elevation gain: ~100–200 m. Facilities: none at site. Best time: spring mornings. Access: rental car or taxi recommended.
Sustainability Note
Protect island springs by using refillable water bottles, packing out trash, staying on established trails, and avoiding soaps or sunscreen in freshwater pools to prevent ecological harm.