Follow the footsteps of Luc Besson’s masterpiece across the island

📍Amorgos gained international fame as the backdrop for the 1988 cult film The Big Blue by Luc Besson. This meditative, dreamlike movie left a lasting impression on divers, cinephiles, and travelers alike. Today, you can visit the iconic locations used in the film and experience the mystical charm of Amorgos that inspired its tranquil and awe-inspiring scenes.

Whether you are a film enthusiast, a photographer, or simply someone searching for beauty off the beaten path, tracing these cinematic spots offers a unique, slow-travel experience in perfect harmony with nature.

1. Agia Anna Beach

The Deep Blue Starts Here

Located just beneath the famous Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, Agia Anna Beach is perhaps the most recognizable spot from The Big Blue. This rocky beach, with its transparent turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, is where Jacques Mayol practices freediving in the film. It’s also one of the most photographed beaches in the Cyclades.

Why visit:

Swim in crystal-clear water, relax by the rocks, or simply sit and gaze at the horizon. There are no beach bars or shops, so the experience remains completely unspoiled. It’s a peaceful place that embodies the ecological spirit of Amorgos.

Website: www.tripadvisor.

2. Chora – The Historic Heart of Amorgos

A Village Preserved in Time and Film

Chora, the island’s main village, served as the childhood home of the characters in the film. With its winding whitewashed alleys, traditional Cycladic architecture, and picturesque windmills, the village offers a timeless experience.

Why visit:

Explore the narrow cobbled streets, stop at a local café, or watch the sunset over the valley below. You can also visit the film spots near the windmills where many key scenes were filmed.

Website: tripadvisor.fr

3. The Shipwreck of Olympia – Kalotaritissa

A Cinematic Relic Lost at Sea

Near the remote beach of Kalotaritissa lies the half-sunken shipwreck of Olympia, used in the film for a scene where Jacques rescues a U.S. soldier. The eerie setting, surrounded by rugged terrain and blue waters, gives visitors a sense of adventure and nostalgia.

Why visit:

Combine a walk to the shipwreck with a swim at Kalotaritissa Beach. The area is quiet, isolated, and untouched by mass tourism. Bring water and sunscreen, and take time to reflect by the sea.

Website: amorgos.gr

Why It’s Sustainable ?

Following in the footsteps of a film doesn’t have to be superficial or touristy. These cinematic landmarks are all accessible on foot or by local bus, avoiding the need for car rentals. They encourage visitors to slow down and appreciate the authentic beauty of Amorgos, contributing to local cafés, shops, and guides in the process.

Conclusion

Exploring The Big Blue filming locations offers more than just a nostalgic journey—it provides a deeper connection to the island’s soul. Through nature, silence, and cinematic wonder, travelers can relive moments of the movie while engaging in eco-conscious tourism that respects the pace and purity of Amorgos.