Explore Sifnos

A cosmopolitan, tradition-rich Cycladic Island

THE SOPHISTICATED LADY OF THE CYCLADES

A world of unique experiences

Welcome to Sifnos, a stunning Cycladic Island that offers a unique blend of traditional culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Sifnos is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and rich history, making it the perfect destination for travellers seeking a true Greek experience.

Home to many exciting sites and a generous giver of authentic experiences, the story of Sifnos starts with its quaint villages and settlements. The island’s traditional villages, such as Kastro and Artemonas, are full of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and stunning views. Visitors can also hike the many trails that criss-cross the island, exploring the natural beauty of Sifnos along the way.

Of course, a holiday in Sifnos wouldn’t be complete without visiting some of the island’s beautiful beaches. Sifnos has many stunning beaches, ranging from secluded coves to popular spots with all the amenities. Some of the best include Platys Gialos, Vathi, and Kamares.

For those interested in cultural sites, Sifnos has plenty to offer. The island has many ancient churches and monasteries, including the impressive Monastery of Chrissopigi, which is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. Visitors can also explore the Apollonia Archaeological Museum to learn more about the island’s history.

Sifnos is also well-known for its rich culinary tradition. The island’s traditional cuisine is based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and visitors can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes at local tavernas and restaurants. Don’t miss trying the local specialties such as mastelo, chickpea balls, and revithada.

Overall, Sifnos is a truly special destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, you’re sure to find it on this beautiful island. Book your holiday in Sifnos today and experience the magic for yourself.

Until then, have a look below at the island’s highlights that, along with your ultra-pampering and relaxed stay at Sigma Residences, will make up the most treasured holiday of your life!

Must-visit beaches

  • Platys Gialos

    This popular beach is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy shore, and excellent facilities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and water sports.

  • Vathi

    Vathi is a stunning secluded beach that is perfect for those seeking a more peaceful and secluded getaway. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs, and the waters are calm and turquoise.

  • Kamares

    This is the largest and most popular beach in Sifnos, located just a few steps away from the ferry port. The beach is sandy and long, with shallow waters that make it perfect for families with children.

  • Faros

    Faros is a picturesque fishing village that is home to several beautiful beaches. The main beach is sandy and sheltered, with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

  • Chrysopigi

    This beach is located just below the Chrysopigi Monastery and is known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

  • Vroulidia

    Vroulidia is a small, secluded beach that is perfect for those seeking a bit of peace and quiet. The beach is pebbly and surrounded by cliffs, making it a great spot for snorkelling.

  • Poulati

    Poulati is a small beach that is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, and the waters are calm and clear.

  • Fasolou

    Fasolou is a long, sandy beach that is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and greenery, giving it a secluded feel.

  • Kastro

    Kastro is a picturesque village that is home to a beautiful beach. The beach is small and sheltered, with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

  • Herronisos

    Herronisos is a small, unspoiled beach that is perfect for those seeking a bit of solitude. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and greenery, and the waters are crystal-clear.

Graphic settlements & Villages

  • Apollonia

    The capital and the largest village of Sifnos located in the centre of the island and a lively atmosphere with many shops, restaurants, and cafes. The village is famous for its beautiful architecture, narrow alleys, and traditional, white-washed houses.

  • Kastro

    A medieval village located on the north-eastern part of the island and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved villages in Sifnos, with narrow alleys, stone houses, and stunning views of the sea. Kastro was the capital of Sifnos during the Byzantine period, and it has a rich history and cultural heritage. Overlooking the dramatic hillsides on one side and the Aegean Sea horizon on the other Kastro is one of the best places to explore and learn about the history of the island.

  • Artemonas

    A picturesque village located on the hillside above Apollonia known for its beautiful neoclassical houses, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea. Artemonas has many traditional cafes and taverns, and it is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the authentic Greek way of life.

  • Faros

    A small fishing village located on the southern coast of Sifnos and a must-visit due to its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional fish taverns. An ideal destination for those who want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Sifnos.

  • Vathi

    A quaint village located on the south-eastern part of the island that offers a long sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and traditional fish taverns. Vathi is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Sifnos.

Sifnos Culinary tradition & local products

Sifnos is known for its rich culinary tradition, which is based on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The island’s cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and the use of basic ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, and legumes.

One of the most famous dishes from Sifnos is mastelo, a hearty lamb stew that is cooked slowly in a clay pot. The lamb is marinated in red wine, garlic, and herbs, and then cooked with potatoes until it becomes tender and flavourful. Another popular dish is revithada, a chickpea stew that is seasoned with onions, garlic, and lemon juice. It is often served with bread and feta cheese.

Other traditional dishes include soutzoukakia, meatballs made with ground beef and served with tomato sauce and rice, and manoura, a type of local cheese that is made from sheep’s or goat’s milk and has a tangy, salty flavour. Sifnos is also known for its almond sweets, which are made with locally grown almonds and honey.

The island has many tavernas and restaurants that serve traditional Sifnos cuisine. Visitors can also attend food festivals and celebrations, such as the annual Cycladic Gastronomy Festival, which showcases the island’s culinary traditions and local products.

Overall, the culinary tradition of Sifnos is a testament to the island’s rich history and culture. With its emphasis on fresh, simple ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, Sifnos cuisine is a must-try for anyone visiting the island.

Activities

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, there is something for everyone on this charming island. Here are some of the top things to do in Sifnos:

Sifnos has a network of well-maintained trails that traverse the island and offer stunning views of its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and charming villages. One of the most popular trails is the Apollonia to Kastro trail, which takes you through scenic landscapes and past ancient ruins. 

Have a look below to see the official trekking trails of the island:

  1. Route 1: Artemonas (Saint Luke) – Poulati – Kastro – Seralia – Monastery of Vrissi – Agios Andreas – Holy Unmercenaries (Agioi Anargiri Ftochiani) – Firogia
  2. Route 2: Kastro – Kalamaki – Saint John of Siderou (Agios Ioannis Siderou) – Faros – Apokofto
  3. Route 3: Apollonia – Kato Petali – Monastery of Vrissi – Agios Thomas – Platis Gialos
  4. Route 4: Platis Gialos – Mousia – Fikiada – Kodou – Prophet Elias of Kodou (Profitis Ilias Kodou)
  5. Route 5: Katavati – Thaxiarch of Skafi, with two branches:
    1. 5a: Mavro Chorio – Saint Nicholas of Aerina (Ai Nikolas t’Aerina) – Vathi, or
    2. 5b: The Virgin Mary of Nigio (Panagia tou Nigiou) – Kalamitsi – Vathi
  6. Route 6: Apollonia – Theologian of Mongou (Theologos of Mongou) – Saint Eleutherios (Agios Eleftherios), with two branches:
    1. 6a:Mavri Spilia – Kamares, or
    2. 6b: The Virgin Mary of Toso Nero (Panagia Toso Nero) – Flabouro – Agia Marina – Taxiarch of Skafi – Firogia
  7. Route 7: Ano Petali – The Virgin Mary of the Platan (Panagia tou Platanou) – Saint Lazarus (Agios Lazaros) – Saint Symeon (Agios Symeon) – Troulaki
  8. Route 8: Artemonas – Saint Anne (Agia Anna) – The Virgin Mary of Magana (Panagia Ta Magana) – Saint Minas (Agios Minas) – [Saint Sostis (Agios Sostis)] – Saint Nikitas (Agios Nikitas) – Diavrouchas – [Saint Philip (Agios Filipos)] – Cheronissos

Sifnos is an excellent destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as windsurfing, diving, kayaking, and snorkelling. The island’s crystal-clear waters provide the perfect setting for water sports, and there are many companies that offer equipment rental and guided tours. Some of the most popular beaches for water sports include Platys Gialos, Vathi, and Faros.

Sifnos is known for its high-quality wine, with several local vineyards producing a variety of white, red, and rosé wines. Visitors can tour the island’s vineyards and wineries, learning about the history and production of Sifnos wines, and tasting some of the island’s finest vintages.

Sifnos is home to several fascinating cultural sites, including the Chrysopigi Monastery, the Kastro fortress, and the Folklore Museum of Apollonia. These sites offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.

With its numerous pristine beaches, Sifnos is a great place to spend a day soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Platys Gialos, Vathi, Kamares, and Chrysopigi.

Explore all landmarks

Sifnos hotspots

Have a look at the map below and explore all the must-visit landmarks of the island!