Posted by Sikinos, located between Ios and Folegandros, is 42 square kilometers in size, but has only around 300 inhabitants. Sikinos is one of the least tourist-developed islands in the Cyclades. A small tourist boom has started here, but the island is 30 years behind its neighbors Ios or even Santorini. If you are looking for peace and quiet, Sikinos is the right place for you; if you need action or nightlife, you have come to the wrong place. Sikinos is very mountainous, but the valleys are fertile. The few inhabitants make a modest living from farming, fishing, and the few tourists. There are three towns: the port settlement of Alopronia and the two mountain villages of Chora and Kastro, which have almost grown together.
Alopronia – the port of Sikinos
This is where the ferries dock. The town has a few cafes, taverns, private rooms and guest houses to offer. The beach in the town is good. Even better beaches (Agios Nikolaos and Katergo) can be reached on foot from Alopronia. The small museum on the subject of olives and olive oil is worth a visit.
Perhaps the best accommodation is Pension Flora (Tel.: 2286051214) 500 meters outside the port town. There is also a small hotel in the port of Sikinos. The rooms at Porto Sikinos are a bit overpriced, however, at 60-85 euros per room (Tel.: 2286051220). Lucas also rents out private rooms and has the best tavern in town (Tel.: 2286051075). Ostria Studios is also not a bad choice.
How big is Sikinos?
Sikinos (Greek: Σίκινος) is a small island in the Cyclades and has an area of 41.2 km². It is about 6 km long and 4 km wide. Sikinos is less touristy than many other islands in the Cyclades and offers a quiet, authentic atmosphere.
The villages of Chora and Kastro
2 classic, almost joined together, villages in the mountains of the Cyclades. White houses, narrow streets, windmills, mountain villages largely spared from tourism with a particularly beautiful, large church – Cycladic atmosphere like in the travel brochure. A few tavernas and a few private rooms. I Klimataria is the best of the 3-4 tavernas in the Chora. Kastro is considered the prettier and older part of the double village.
Hiking on the island
Hiking on the island off the few paths is difficult because of the steep slopes. Ask in the tavernas or at the accommodation. The short hike from Chora to the Zoodochos Monastery, which can be visited (no entrance fee), is interesting. A steep hiking trail leads up to the monastery. Great view from above. A longer hike leads south to the second monastery called Episkopis (also called Heroon. Unfortunately, the main attraction on the island is closed, probably due to dilapidation. A road has now been built to this monastery.
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The island is in the central Cyclades between Ios and Folegandros. The port town is called Alopronia. |
Ferries to the island of Sikinos
Sikinos has no airport. There are ferry connections almost daily to Athens, the island of Folegandros, the island Ios, the island Santorini and the island of Paros. A few times a week there are also ferries to/from Milos, Naxos, Sifnos, Serifos and the island Kithnos.
➔ To book ferries within Greece, we recommend the reputable website Ferryscanner.com
Accommodation in Sikinos
There are only about 10 accommodations on the island that can be booked online, for example via Booking.com. We recommend the inexpensive Galini Rooms Sikinos near the port and Stegadi Apartments up in Chora. Both have very good reviews and very nice and friendly owners.
Buses on Sikinos
The only bus connects the port of Alopronia with Chora and Kastro at least every hour in high summer. Once a day he drives on the new road to the Episkopis Monastery and then back again a little later. The time spent there is enough to take a quick look at the monastery from the outside.
It is hardly worth renting a car on Sikinos because there are so few roads. Renting a moped might make more sense.
Location
Sikinos is located in the southern Cyclades. The island of Ios and the island of Folegandros are less than 10 km away. The island of Santorini is about 30 km south of Sikinos.
What can you do on Sikinos?
It is a quiet and unspoilt island in the Cyclades, perfect for travelers looking for an authentic Greek island experience. Here are some of the best activities and sights you can experience on Sikinos:
Hiking
Sikinos offers beautiful hiking trails that lead through untouched nature.
Hike to Zoodochos Pigi Monastery: A short hike takes you to a historic monastery with great views of the island and the sea.
Hike from Chora to Alopronia: This hike takes you through the island’s scenic landscape and offers impressive views.
Ipsarion (the highest peak): A more challenging hike that is rewarded with magnificent views of the sea and surrounding islands.
Enjoy the beaches
Sikinos has a number of beautiful, quiet beaches.
Agios Georgios: An idyllic sandy beach ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Alopronia Beach: The island’s main beach, easily accessible and with tavernas nearby for a delicious lunch.
Kastro Beach: A secluded beach particularly suitable for travelers seeking peace and quiet.
Shinaria Beach: A secluded beach ideal for those looking for a less touristy spot.
Discover the capital Chora
Chora, the picturesque main village, is known for its charming alleyways and traditional architecture.
Venetian Tower: The tower, dating from the Venetian era, offers great views of the island and the sea.
Panagia Church: A picturesque church in Chora that is worth visiting.
Local Taverns and Cafes: Enjoy Greek specialties and a coffee in one of the traditional taverns.
Historical Sites
Sikinos has a rich history that you can experience at various sites.
Ancient Theater: The ancient theater offers a glimpse into the island’s Greek heritage and a magnificent view of the sea.
Aliki Archaeological Site: A historical site with ruins that gives an insight into the ancient history of Sikinos.
Zoodochos Pigi Monastery: A historical and architecturally interesting monastery.
Food
The Greek cuisine on Sikinos is delicious and should definitely be tried.
Sikinos cheese: A local cheese that is often used in traditional dishes.
Fish and seafood: The island’s fresh fish dishes are particularly delicious.
Mavrodafni wine: A local wine that you should definitely try.
Kavourmas: A traditional pork dish that is popular on the island.
Boat and island hopping tours
You can also visit neighboring islands such as Folegandros or Ios from Sikinos. A boat tour around Sikinos gives you the opportunity to discover secluded bays and beaches.
Relax and enjoy the sunset
Sikinos offers beautiful sunsets that are best enjoyed from Chora or from one of the secluded beaches.
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