Playa de Achla

Introduction

If there is a corner among the beaches of Andros that captures the essence of Greek beauty in its purest state, that is, without a doubt, Playa de Achla. Located in the northeastern part of the island, this cove presents itself to us as a true oasis, a hidden treasure that richly rewards the effort of seeking it out. It's the kind of place that appears on postcards, but which, once you set foot on it, surpasses any preconceived image. For us, it's one of those experiences that stays etched in the traveler's memory.

Playa de Achla is not just a beach; it's an ecosystem in itself. Here, a small river of fresh water, coming from the mountains and fed by a nearby waterfall, winds through a lush valley before meeting the Aegean Sea. This unique encounter creates a landscape of fascinating contrasts: the intense green of the vegetation, the pearly white of the sand and pebbles, and the turquoise and deep blue of the waters. It's a place where nature expresses itself in its fullest splendor, inviting us to disconnect and immerse ourselves in its serenity.

How to Get to Playa de Achla

The path to Playa de Achla is part of the adventure and, honestly, it's not for the faint of heart. We could say that its relative inaccessibility is what has preserved its pristine charm. There are two main ways to reach this wonderful Andros beach:

By Road

If we choose the road, we must prepare for an 'off-road' experience. From Chora, the road is paved for a stretch, but the last few kilometers turn into a fairly rough dirt track, with tight curves and steep slopes. We strongly recommend using a 4x4 vehicle, especially if we visit the beach in high season, when the terrain may be more deteriorated. The journey can take between 45 minutes and an hour from Chora, depending on our driving skill and the condition of the track. Although challenging, the panoramic views during the descent are spectacular and offer us a preview of the beauty that awaits.

By Sea

For those who prefer to avoid the dirt road, the most comfortable and picturesque option is to arrive by boat. During the summer months, several tourist boats offer daily excursions to Playa de Achla from ports like Batsi or Chora. These tours usually include time for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the surroundings. It's an excellent way to admire the coast of Andros and reach the beach without worries, while also offering a different perspective of the island from the sea.

The Sand and Water

Playa de Achla welcomes us with a charming mix of fine sand and smooth pebbles, a combination that gives it a unique character. The sand has a light, almost white tone, which contrasts wonderfully with the intense blue of the sea. It's a pleasure to walk barefoot along the shore, feeling the texture under our feet. The transition of the ground is smooth, making it comfortable for everyone.

But what truly captivates us about the waters of Achla is their transparency. They are incredibly crystal-clear, allowing us to see the seabed with astonishing clarity. The color of the sea varies from a bright turquoise near the shore to a deeper blue as we go further out. The water temperature is ideal for bathing during the summer months, refreshing but not cold, inviting us to immerse ourselves and enjoy long swims. Furthermore, being sheltered, its waters are usually calm, making it a safe and pleasant place to swim.

Services and Facilities

Due to its remote and protected nature, Playa de Achla does not have massive tourist infrastructure, and that is precisely part of its charm. Let's not expect to find large hotel complexes or a multitude of shops. However, there are some basic services that make the visit more comfortable:

• Chiringuitos: During the high season (mainly from June to September), there is usually a small beach bar or taverna on the beach. Here we can enjoy refreshing drinks, coffees, and sometimes, a snack or light meal. It's a perfect place to take shelter from the sun and enjoy the views.
• Parking: As mentioned, there is a parking area at the end of the dirt road. It's a rudimentary, unpaved parking lot, so caution is needed when maneuvering, especially if our vehicle is not a 4x4.
• Sunbeds and umbrellas: The chiringuito often offers sunbed and umbrella rentals, which is very convenient if we haven't brought our own. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on busier days.

Best Time to Visit

For us, the choice of the best time to visit Playa de Achla depends a lot on our personal preferences regarding climate and crowds. However, there are periods we consider optimal:

• Late spring (May-June): This is an excellent time. The temperatures are pleasant, the landscape is lush and green thanks to the winter rains, and the sea is already warm enough for bathing. Furthermore, the influx of tourists is significantly lower than in mid-summer, allowing us to enjoy the beach with almost total tranquility. It's ideal for those seeking relaxation and photography.
• Early autumn (September-October): Similar to spring, autumn in Andros offers mild weather and a sea that still retains the warmth of the summer