Sifnos | Cyclades
36.9622° N, 24.6999° E
Whitewashed villages gleaming under the sunlight, spectacular waters that change colour as the sun travels across the bright blue sky, sloping tree-lined mountains….the scenery of Sifnos is mesmerizing,
its Greek-chic feel smoothing out the austerity of the landscape with accents of white and blue. The town is enchanting, with its dreamy waterfront, winding alleys and charming yards vividly coloured by bougainvillea and pots of local herbs. The coastline is packed with charming coves with crystal clear waters, flanked by quaint seaside villages.
Sifnos' fairytale quality has been attracting a diverse crowd of yachters, jet-setters and savvy travellers for years – those who like their luxury with a dash of sophistication – a sophistication perhaps derived from the fact that the island has been producing great poets, writers and philosophers since ancient times. It is also a foodie's paradise, with a rich cuisine and a variety of superb local produce -a tradition that goes back to the 18th century.
Apollonia, Artemonas and Kastro
Sifnos' main settlements, anchored by Apollonia, the capital and heart of the island. All three of them are full of architectural gems that have been recognized as “protected traditional buildings” since 1962. Stroll around the alleys of the villages to take in the effortless elegance of the setting and then head to one of the small cafes to try the local sweets.Moni Chrisopigis
Built in the 17th century, Sifnos' most important monastery is perched on a rocky promontory that overlooks the Aegean, a scenery of typical Cycladic beauty straight from a postcard. After visiting the monastery, swim at the beach of Chrisopigi and then head to one of the charming tavernas to enjoy some delicious local food.Trekking
Sifnos boasts an excellent network of 19 marked hiking trails that provide100km of fabulous walks. The trails are designed to introduce trekkers to the island’s natural and cultural treasures, including the 77 towers that were constructed from the 6th to the 3rd century BC to protect the inhabitants from the attacks of the pirates.Cycladic Gastronomy Festival Nikolaos Tselemedes
The culinary festival, which takes its name from the famous Greek chef born on the island, is an annual event that takes place in early September and brings together professional chefs from across the Cyclades to present each island's local dishes. Visitors can try the dishes and attend the music and dance events with traditional island music.
Fabled as “the island of poets”, Sifnos carries an effortless elegance that lends an air of sophistication to its typical island charm.
It also has a lively nightlife, featuring numerous bars for every taste and style. Given its culinary tradition and exquisite local produce, Sifnos offers first-rate dining whether you opt for an intimate family-run taverna or a gourmet restaurant.
Ask the locals about the panigiria, the local feasts that are organised in the inland settlements – a great chance to mingle with the locals and experience the traditional way of life. Visit some of the 237 churches and monasteries that are sprinkled around the island.
Visit the island's gem, the traditional settlement Artemonas, just off the outskirts of Apollonia. Wander around the medieval settlement of Kastro and take the path to the small church of Eftamartira for some awe-inspiring views.
You can get to Sifnos by ferry from the port of Piraeus. The ride lasts 2.5 - 35 hrs depending on the route. Alternatively, you can fly to Paros or Naxos and take a connecting ferry from there.
Although primarily a yachting destination, Sifnos will surprise guests with its vast selection of holiday villas to rent. Whitewashed luxury villas with a swimming pool welcoming a group of friends, or small yet cozy luxurious private villas for utter seclusion are included in our handpicked selection of holiday villas for you to choose your perfect match.
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