The village Arni & Remata River on Andros

The village of Arni and the Remata River are located almost in the middle of Andros and they together are one of the greenest and most lush parts of the island. It is not the village itself that makes it an attraction, it is the river that is interesting. Now it is not a real river as you think when you read the word river. But by Greek standards it is a river.

Arni is located about 450 meters above sea level and has about 70 inhabitants.

Arni is located at an altitude of about 450 meters above sea level and has about 70 inhabitants. It is a small mountainous village with traditional stone houses, terraced farms and beautiful views over the valley. The village is surrounded by chestnut trees, plane trees and rich vegetation. It is said that Arni has among the highest rainfall levels in the Cyclades, which explains the lush environment. The village has a deep-rooted agricultural community, and many of the inhabitants have historically made a living by growing fruit, vegetables and keeping livestock. Arni is located about 21 kilometers west of Andros Chora and about 15 kilometers east of Batsi.

Arni is surrounded by chestnut trees, plane trees and rich vegetation.

A small house in the small village of Arni.

Deserted houses below Arni near the Remata River.

The Remata River is approximately 6–7 kilometers long and flows into the sea in eastern Andros. The river receives its water from the mountains around the villages of Arni and Katakilos and from several natural springs in the area. Unlike many other rivers in the Cyclades, the Remata is a perennial river – it flows all year round, which is very unusual in the Cyclades. The valley is green, with dense vegetation, plane trees and small waterfalls. There are several paths along the river, making the area ideal for long and short hikes. Around the river there is a rich birdlife, lots of insects and freshwater turtles, as well as endemic plants.

Here is a bouquet of pictures from Remata River and the beautiful surroundings

The Remata River is approximately 6–7 kilometers long and flows into the sea on eastern Andros.

One of many waterfalls along the river.

Hiking along the river is easy, although you sometimes have to jump a little.

Another waterfall along the Remata River.

The landscape is incredibly lush and leafy.

Here I sit in all simplicity, photographing freshwater turtles.

There are lots of cute freshwater turtles in the river.

When the turtles hide, they look like snakes.

Sometimes they sit on a rock and chill.

There are also some spiders in the area. Whether you like it or not.

Read more about Andros here »