“An unspoilt island of the Aegean”
Comprised of rugged countryside, gorgeous turquoise waters, sandy beaches and naturally, sculpted landscapes, Serifos is considered one of the hidden treasures of the Cyclades. An impressive sailing destination for those seeking more genuine and less mainstream experience. The port of Livadi offers the opportunity to reconnect with the past and enjoy relaxing times while taking in the beautiful scenery. Don’t forget to enjoy the mythology of this enchanted island as here is supposedly where Perseus was raised and where the Cyclops lived.
Serifos town known as “Chora” the capital of Island, is a picturesque village on a hill just above the main port. Offering spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscapes. The small white homes and windmills scattered around the island, produce an intense diversity of colors. Lovers of history can enjoy exploring the Venetian Castle ruins, Byzantine Churches, as well as the Archeological and Folklore museums.
Complex of islands:
Cyclades islands
Capital:
‘Ηora’
Location:
‘West Cyclades’
Sailing distance
from Athens: 66 miles
Famous heritage:
Taxiarhes Monastery
Weather:
Quite windy
SERIFOS
Included in our 1 week route for the Cyclades
Chora is the main settlement on the Greek island of Serifos. It is located on a hill, overlooking the countryside and the Aegean Sea. A very picturesque village with narrow, winding alleys and traditional Cycladic-style houses. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the island's atmosphere. When visiting Chora, be sure to visit the Venetian Castle ruins, the main square of “Pano Piatsa”, the many churches, as well as the Archeological and Folklore museums. This village is one of the most charming in the Cyclades, providing many hours of enjoyment when strolling through the enchanted alleys. Don’t forget to check out the windmills when hiking up to upper Chora. Pretty much any of the high vantage points you visit, will offer exceptional views of the sea and surrounding areas.
An island that has so much to offer in terms of beaches, local delicacies, historical sites and interesting places to visit, requires quite some exploring in order to experience the different beauties of Serifos. Renting a quad would be an ideal solution for accomplishing this goal. If anchored in the main port of Livadi, you can begin your adventure by visiting Chora, then you can move on to Koutalas Bay. Here you will find interesting, colorful beaches while still having the option of driving to Megalo Livadi (12km away from the port). This area has some old mines you can see and explore at your own accord. A visit to the village of Galani is also advised where you can enjoy a delicious Greek salad at the tavern located next to the sandy beach of Platis Gialos.
Mines of Serifos have a rich history, giving prosperity to the locals of the island. The most recent activity dates back to 1830 and 1919 when the mines were operating on a massive scale, leading to a large economical advancement. However, over the years many miners would lose their lives due to the cruel, working conditions, resulting to a strike where many more died. Finally, an agreement was made for improved working conditions. Currently, there is no mining on the island but you can explore and observe the present structures left behind from those difficult times. Megalo Livadi hosts a memorial every year dedicated to the miners, who lost their lives in the strike.
PROSGlistening clear waters
Large revamped port with big natural bay
Traditional and Authentic capital
Charming taverns in pretty town squares
Available car/quads rentals
CONSOccasional strong winds
When planning to visit "Hora", transportation is required
“"Bucket List" trip for our whole family!!!”
There were 6 of us on our catamaran including 2 teenagers. The boat was beautiful, comfortable, and clean. The skipper was amazing. He knew all the local places we should go that weren't so touristy. We climbed a volcano, snorkeled above ruins, swam in beautiful coves, rented ATVs and explored, ate the most amazing food, met friendly, gracious people, visited historic ancient sites, and more. It was the trip of a lifetime and Eugene was professional, kind and incredibly helpful.
Ahillin7, Texas
Visited June 2016
“Fantastic charter experience”
We chartered a Lagoon 420 catamaran for one week out of Athens.
What a fantastic holiday we had. The vessel was surprisingly roomy with everything we could possibly want onboard. Well equipped and spotlessly clean. We pr-ordered our supplies which were delivered directly to the vessel.
Eugene gave us our brief on arrival, and all the staff that we encountered were very friendly and helpful, even chasing through a lost suitcase of one of our party.
Would love to return.
Our yacht in Kentarchos bay
Megalo Livadi, Serifos island
The Lighthouse of Serifos island
Psili Ammos, Serifos
View of "Hora" Serifos
Cats at the alleys of Serifos
This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, it is located on the east coast and is around 7 to 8 km from Livadi. This beach is perfectly suited to families as the waters are shallow and there is a good amount of shade from the trees lining the shore. It is ideal to anchor for the day and relax in this peaceful area of the island.
A nice, sandy beach with a charming white church located on the edge of a cliff making it an ideal location for taking a time out and relaxing. When onboard a catamaran, you can also sail to the neighboring bays and beaches of Lia, Psili Ammos and Agios Ioannis.
Koutalas beach is next to Ganema bay and has retained its unspoiled atmosphere by not offering commercial beach facilities. So here it is advisable to carry some snacks or beverage with you when going to enjoy this lovely bay for the afternoon. Most visitors also take the opportunity to venture towards the west where there is a cave with stalagmites and stalactites to observe. On the other hand, the south west district from Chora to Koutalas is one of the most picturesque on the island.
Ganema beach is the perfect escape for those looking for a calm and tranquil location. You will be greeted by soft sand mixed with little pebbles, while a cluster of trees create shelter from the sun. It is right next to Koutalas beach, which together create a horse shoe appearance of a bay. Here, you will find some taverns allowing you to enjoy a meal or a cold beverage not too far from the beach. The tavern is used to accommodating visitors enjoying a yacht sailing vacation.
Located in the south-east part of Serifos, Megalo livadi, also known for the old mines (listed in our Serifos Top 3) is really worth visiting with a yacht. Sail around the old crane once used to load the ships with raw material produced back in those times.
Located in "Livadi Serifou", the permanent exhibition includes mainly sculptures, architectural elements, funerary reliefs,and amphorae originating from the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras.
One of the few monasteries in Greece, built like a fortress, with walls close to 10m high. It has only one entrance, allowing you to visit the chapel within, which is dedicated to Archangels Michael and Gabriel. A floor laid with marble and treasures made the Monastery a regular victim of attacks from pirates, whom the monks bravely fought to protect their lives and property. The architecture, interior findings and view, puts it on our list of priorities during your sailing trip.
Serifos Castle is located at the top of Chora (main town), it was built by the Venetian Empire in order to protect them from pirates. Once you make it up the many treacherous steps, you will be rewarded by one of the best available views on the island. Remember to bring some water, wear comfortable shoes and not to rush. A truly rewarding experience once you have made it up to the top.
When it comes to Serifos cuisine it's a simple process. This is one of the islands where you will enjoy good meals almost anywhere you go.
Departure:
" Serifos is an unspoilt Greek Island with exceptional views, aquamarine waters and excellent cuisine. Make sure to visit the town square at the hilltop of Chora (main town), where you can enjoy a drink or cocktail beneath the stars while overlooking the Aegean Sea and surrounding areas. Pano Piazza is worth a visit if you find yourself in this part of town."
-Eugene suggests