Introduction
Vacation planning time is officially here! As we approach March, we start thinking and drafting plans for the summer. You have to consider at least this beautiful island, with still lots of untapped potential and great scenery.
Serifos is a medium sized island in the Aegean Sea, located between Kythnos and Sifnos. For a map location see here. It is a beautiful island that does not get as attention as it should. It has great beaches, beautiful cuisine and a great Chora (the main old town of the island; read till the end to not miss any tips). Serifos can be reached by boat from Piraeus, the port of Athens. The trip is approximately 2 hours.
It is perfect for 4-7 days vacation as it has options of beaches that are easily reachable by car, but also many that require a small hike to the beach or even boat. We would highly recommend to use a car that is 4x4 as the road infrastructure is really really bad, even for Greek standards. Most of the beaches and the Chora can of course be reached by a normal car, however the ride will not be comfortable if you decide to visit some of the more secluded beaches.
Regarding accommodation, we recommend to always stay in such islands that are not very big; either at the Port, close to bars and restaurants or in Chora. This strategy maximises time spend while driving back & forth from the beach during the day, but you have a short walk/drive to reach most nightlife and food options at the end of your day. We were very lucky to stay at a beautiful Apartment Hotel near the Port, that had very spacious apartments and a great view from our very own veranda.
Where to swim in Serifos?
Here are some mere recommendations for a few of the prettiest beaches on the island.
Psili Ammos: small overall, beautiful sand, some trees for shadow. You can reach by car, park on the street and then walk 200 meters down to the beach.
Psili Ammos beach.
Ganema: Really long beach, if you go early there are some trees to use for shadow. Sun umbrella is recommended. You can go by car and park close to the nearby bus stop. There is also a good beach bar, SAAN, with great food and drinks. If you see sunbeds & you wish to use them, ask the price in advance.
Ganema beach.
Kalo Ampeli: Beautiful beach, it requires a hike to reach the water. Depending on where you park the hike can take 20-35 mins. The path has no signs, to make sure you follow the correct path check to find some concrete steps and follow the direction of the small church that is there. The way to the beach by car was bumpy, 4x4 car is recommended. Definitely load up on lots of water, sunscreen and food, as there is nothing on the beach and around the area. The beach, especially if you visit on a less busy day, is breathtaking ! Really worth the trouble.
Koutalas: Quiet beach next to a small neighborhood of little houses. The beach has pebbles and no sand. Very clean water and perfect reach by car. We spent few hours, fell asleep under the trees & forgot to make pictures. See some here,
Where to eat dinner?
If you look for the typical fish tavern on an island there are two great options: Kalis Seafood Restaurant and O Takis. Both are located at the port, very close to one another. It is better to book in advance and ask for a table close to the water for better view.
If you visit Chora and want to get dinner Marathoriza is the smallest family tavern you have seen, with max 10 tables and the most amazing home cooked delicacies; bean stews, local cheese, savoury pies and stews. Best local specialty, the marathopita or fennel pie served with honey and sesame seeds. Hands down one of the best pies, made from local ingredients. Overall, a great culinary experience. They do not accept reservations so be prepared that you may have to wait in line.
Dinner at Marathoriza.
Aloni is our last recommendation for two reasons; great food and probably the best panoramic views of any restaurant on the island. Definitely pre-book a table and ask for one with a view. We enjoyed our dinner and the local wine too.
Key takeaway: call in advance & book a table. If you cannot communicate in Greek/English ask your hotel to help you. Everyone will be more than happy to facilitate you.
Where to snack / drink?
Chill & Co; tasty cocktails at the port [link]
SAAN; beach bar [link]
Indigo Cafe; breakfast, coffee at the port [link]
Compasso; breakfast and brunch, at the port [link]
Medousa; local patisserie also at the port [link]
Must not miss
The island has a gorgeous Chora. It is definitely worth a visit. If you have more time, you can spend half a day even; eating an afternoon snack, doing some shopping from local shops, walking up to the viewpoint, having dinner & drinks. The ideal Greek-island evening! If you are tight with your schedule, just make sure to walk to the viewpoint and make some gorgeous pictures while the sun sets.
Chora; on the way to the viewpoint.
Chora; view from the viewpoint.
This was the guide with our recommendations as locals enjoying the island! Feel free to ask/leave your comments below.
Have you been already to Serifos? If yes, what were your favourite spots?
We would love to hear your thoughts.