The beautiful Greek island with empty beaches and it's 'better than Santorini'

Located in the Aegean Sea, Folegandros is a Greek island best known for its rugged natural beauty, traditional Cycladic architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. The Island is a part of the Cyclades island group and it retains a strong sense of traditional Cycladic architecture.

Compared to more popular tourist destinations, Folegandros offers a tranquil and less developed experience, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a connection with nature. It is also a great location for walking and exploring. You can hike along coastal paths, discover hidden beaches, and explore the island's interior with its traditional agricultural villages.

Folegandros features three small villages; Chora, Karavostasis, and Ano Meria, which all encompass a strong sense of its cultural identity, with a focus on preserving the natural environment and traditional ways of life.

Chora, the 'capital' of the island, is built on the edge of a 200-metre high cliff known for its charming, narrow, cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, which are found in all three villages, adorned with bougainvillaea and jasmine. The village happens to be one of the oldest medieval towns in the whole ofthe Cyclades, which unfortunately makes it out of bounds to motor vehicles. One of Chora's main features is that all its buildings are built very close to one another, which gives the village its unique and captivating look.

Karavostasis is a small seaside village and the Island's main and only port. It's known for its tranquillity, proximity to beaches, and convenient access to amenities. While small, it offers hotels, restaurants, taverns, and shops, catering to both locals and tourists. Karavostasis' port handles ferry traffic and serves as the departure point for boats to other beaches.

Ano Meria is located on the northwestern part of the island. It has a strongly preserved traditional way of life and agricultural heritage. It's characterised by 'pneumonia,' traditional cottages that also function as self-sufficient farming units, and 'kserolithies,' stone walls used for cultivation. The village offers a glimpse into authentic rural life and is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful, less touristy experience.

Folegandros is a beautiful place to make memories, so don't be discouraged by the island's small size, as there are various spots to explore.

The island's beaches are some of the best there are, and according to TripAdvisor, Katergo, Livadaki and Agios Nikolas are the best ones to see.

Katergo is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is accessible by boat or a hike from Livadi. One Tripadvisor reviewer claimed that it was: " Probably the best beach on Folegandros", so it's no surprise that it came number one on the list.

Located further from the main areas, Livadaki is a secluded beach with a mix of sand and pebbles, reachable by boat or a hike from Ano Meria. One TripAdvisor user did warn however that there is: " No facilities, so bring water."

Agios Nikolas offers the most relaxed atmosphere with its calm waters. One Tripadvisor reviewer wrote: "Not as beautiful as Katergo, but on the plus side there's a bar and a taverna", so still definitely worth the visit.

The island is also a good choice for adventure seekers who prefer a more laid-back and authentic experience, rather than the typical bustling tourist scene. It offers opportunities for hiking, exploring rugged landscapes, and discovering secluded beaches. So, while its not known for extreme sports, it provides a tranquil setting with beautiful scenery and opportunities for exploration.