© Photo by Marina Vernikou
© Photo by Marina Vernikou

SIFNOS

Genuine and mysterious all dressed in white. Serenity and original beauty in full magnitude...

1.

Kamares is the island’s port. Its beach gets the blue flag every year, for the quality of water and the cleanliness of the beach. It is perhaps one of the few island ports (if not the only one), where you can enjoy your swim without a second thought. Tourist shops and tavernas fill up the main street, and if you raise your eyes you will see the Prophet Elijah and St. Simeon, "hanging" from the rocks.

2.

The beautiful Apollonia is the capital of the island, about 6 km from the port. Amphitheatrically built on three hills with white washed houses, gardens with bougainvilleas and narrow streets. It is one of the most beautiful capitals in the Cyclades, and certainly the most elegant and clean. Here lies the famous "Strait" with café-bars, which comes alive and crowded every night. Culture:  On the central Platia Iroon (Heroes' Square), you will find the Folk Art Museum with artifacts from everyday life and occupations of the Sifnians, traditional costumes and ceramics from the old days. [Daily 10.00-14.00 (summer time only), Ticket price: €2].

3.

The picturesque medieval Kastro (Castle). Built on the top of a high cliff on the island's northwestern shore on the site of the ancient city of Sifnos, today has extensive medieval remains and is the location of the island's archeological museum. It was the old capital of the island inhabited constantly since prehistoric times. Leave your car in the parking lot; go up the path and start exploring the paths of the "past". The Venetian fortifications are maintained intact, Cycladic houses with bougainvilleas adorning the walls and taverns, suddenly appear in front of you while you believe you are lost in the maze of alleys. Insider Tip: * Follow the paths to the beaches Seralia and Eptamartyros. Turquoise waters, pebbles and tranquility will make these small coves your favorite. Keep in mind that the second one is preferred by nudists.

Experience: Do not miss the magical Sunrise from the ring road of Kastro, and the best sunset awaits you at "Kavo Sunrise", with the owner, the well known as the "Banana", who has made all his shop on his own and is one of the most original figures of the island.

 

4.

The cosmopolitan Platys Gialos. It is the most popular beach on the island, ideal as accommodation place (the lovely Hotel Verina Suites is located here) with many choices in terms of food and fun. The beach is long sandy and organized and on the left side of the bay there is a fully equipped modern marina, a fishing haven. About 2 km from Platys Gialos you can see the best preserved towers (one of the 76) of the island, while the small uninhabited islet Kitriani (or Cypriani) shows special interest.

5.

The beautiful beaches will surprise you with their very special character. Do not miss the multi-photographed Chrysopigi, 10 km from Apollonia and a few minutes away from Platys Gialos. On the east side of the region you will find a sandy beach, but here the favorite place is the cliffs of Chrysopigi with their regular visitors flocking here every year. On the Panagia Poulati beach you will enjoy dives from the cliffs and relax surrendered to the sun and to the cleanest turquoise sea waters you have ever seen! In Vathy, about 20’ from Apollonia, you will find a beach mainly for families, one of the longest sandy beaches on the island. Cheronisos is a serene beach on the northern part of the island. In the three tiny beaches of Faros you will be isolated from the "noise" and enjoy refreshing moments of relaxation.

6.

Artemonas, the scenic gem of the island, only 1,5 km away from Apollonia. Its name testifies the worship of the goddess Artemis on the island in antiquity. The architecture will cause your admiration, while the magnificent neo-classical mansions testify their bygone power. Leave your car on the parking lot; make a stop at the central square with the few taverns. Get lost inside its picturesque streets. It is the birthplace of important men of science and arts and will tempt you to visit it daily for a dose of glamour and elegance. Tip: You have to visit the traditional pastry shop “Theodorou Vasilis”, next to the primary school and only a few steps away from the central square, which continues the three generation tradition and introduces you to the world of Sifnian products. (Artemonas, tel: +30 22840 31370).

7.

Cherronisos on the northern cape of Sifnos was secluded for many years, since there were no roads to connect it with the rest of the island. A picturesque fishing village with beautiful beaches and many restaurants. It will fill your photographic memory with original Greek images and meet your every need for significant relaxation.

8.

Exampela is the village of Nikos Tselementes. Traditional untouched settlement, just 1 km from Apollonia, which offers you walks among ancient towers and preserved buildings. Do not miss a visit to the Museum of Byzantine Art.

9.

Among the “must visit” are the island’s fairs! The beautiful little church of the Archangels in Vathy celebrates three times a year (July, September, November), while only a few know the fair on the Black Village (Mavro Chorio) during August and St. Sostis during September. Being there is a unique experience.