Relaxed walks in Sifnos
Walking in Sifnos
Routes full of images, aromas, and colors
Sifnos is not just about its impressive trails and hiking routes through nature. Even a leisurely stroll through its villages’ alleys can fill you with wonderful images that you will remember from your vacation. Walking here is a way of life – every alley hides a story, every courtyard has its own flowers, every stone bench is a resting point.
Here we suggest some of our favorite walks, which do not require special physical condition and are ideal for relaxed wanderings full of images and genuine island atmosphere.
Artemonas - Pano Petali - Apollonia: from noble to traditional
A delightful route that connects Artemonas with Apollonia, passing through Pano Petali.
Starting from the square of Artemonas, turn left and enter a downhill alley, passing through Chrysogelos Square with its large pine trees offering natural shade. A little further down, you will find Panagia ta Gournia, a beautiful double-aisle church, built next to a small stream that, if you are lucky, might still have a little water even in summer. In the past, the village women washed their clothes in the natural basins, hence the church's name.
Crossing the bridge, you leave Artemonas behind and enter the settlement of Pano Petali. The gentle uphill slope that follows does not last long, don't worry, and at its end, the oldest café in Sifnos, "O Felos," used to operate. If you decide to wander off the main cobbled street, you can lose yourself in the village's alleys, discovering small farms, traditional courtyards, and images that still reflect the island’s agricultural past.
At the entrance to Apollonia, you will find Panagia Geraniofora, from where you can enjoy an amazing view towards Kato Petali, Kastro, and the sea. A little further down, in the square of Apollonia, you’ll find Laki’s café, where a refreshing drink or an ice cream is just what you need to regain energy. From here, you can explore the alleys of Apollonia, admiring the beautiful courtyards, browsing the local shops, and enjoying the aromas coming from the pastry shops and restaurants.
Kastro: A living museum
A walk in Kastro is a journey through time. The old capital of Sifnos is a museum-like settlement where medieval history meets Cycladic architecture.
As you walk through the alleys, you will notice that the houses are built in two rows, forming a natural fortress. The narrow winding streets, terraces functioning as pathways, ancient columns embedded in doorways, and traditional lodges create a magical setting.
The best thing to do in Kastro? Get lost in its alleys. And when you step out into the light, the view of the Aegean and the Church of the Seven Martyrs will reward you.
Glyfo – Chrisopigi: A walk by the sea
One of the easiest and most beautiful routes in Sifnos. The paved path from Glyfo to Chrisopigi is well-lit at night and runs right by the sea.
Starting from Glyfo, you pass by the old mining facilities and the ore-loading ramp, reminders of the area’s industrial history. Then, you reach Agios Charalambos, a beautifully whitewashed chapel with a stunning view of Stavros tou Farou and the sea.
A little further ahead, the unique rock of Chrisopigi appears before you. If you want to cool off, the beach of Apokofto is the perfect place for a swim, while the tavernas by the sea will offer you an authentic Sifnian culinary experience.
Exambela: A quiet walk away from the crowds
Perhaps one of the lesser-known walking destinations, but a truly interesting one.
The village of Exambela is almost entirely flat, without major inclines or declines, making it perfect for a relaxed walk. At its edge stands the Black Tower, one of the most impressive ancient monuments on the island.
In the alleys of Exambela, you will find the house of Nikolaos Tselementes, the famous chef, and a bit further, the church of Gero Ai Nikola, from where the view of the sea and central settlements is breathtaking. Also here lies the tomb of the poet Aristomenis Provelengios.
Artemonas: A stroll in one of the most beautiful villages of Sifnos
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic walk, Artemonas is the perfect choice. The afternoon is the best time, as the heat subsides and the sunlight makes the mansions and courtyards even more magical.
Artemonas is full of impressive mansions, well-kept courtyards, paved alleys, and picturesque chapels. If you reach the top of the settlement, you’ll also find old windmills, offering an amazing view of the island.
If you want to take a break, Artemonas has traditional cafés, pastry shops, ouzeries, and restaurants that maintain the authentic Sifnian hospitality.
Kamares – Agia Marina and Agia Katerina: A Walk with a View of the Aegean
If you want an easy and enchanting walk in Sifnos that combines peaceful hiking with stunning views, then the route from Kamares to Agia Marina and Agia Katerina is the perfect choice.
The small chapel of Agia Marina seems to hang over the sea. It is located in Kamares, on the right side of the bay, at the foothills of Agios Simeon. To reach it, you will climb about 95 low and wide steps. Don’t worry about the number – the ascent is easy and short, taking just five minutes.
Tip: The best time to visit Agia Marina is just before sunset. The sun sets directly opposite, painting the sky and sea with unique colors. The scenery is magical and will give you some of the most beautiful memories of the island.
If you want to continue your walk, you can head towards the chapel of Agia Katerina. The route is slightly longer but without steps. To reach it, first go to the settlement of Agia Marina, then turn left and follow a narrow dirt road that runs almost parallel to the sea. The walk takes about 15 minutes and is simple and relaxing.
If you are looking for short walking routes with breathtaking landscapes, the Kamares – Agia Marina – Agia Katerina route will provide you with images you’ll remember forever!
