Villas on the island of Sifnos from Villas Worldwide. The island of Sifnos lies in the more southerly section of the Cyclades group of Greek islands and due to its reputation for superb, long sandy beaches, pretty villages and magnificent terraced countryside adorned with ancient watchtowers it has become one of the most sought after destinations in the area. A small hilly island, Sifnos is also much appreciated by ramblers who enjoy its dramatic scenery.

Modern day Sifnos has become renowned for its poets, chefs and pottery. In ancient times it was known for its gold mines. Back then an offering was made every year to the gods in the form of a solid gold egg. But one year an attempt was made to deceive the gods and a gilded rock was sent instead, the god’s wrath was incurred and the gold mines of old were flooded leaving the island ruined. And thus it gained the name of Sifnos which means empty. But it’s not any more!

With a myriad of winding streets, whitewashed houses and belfries the capital of Sifnos is Apollonia which is located above the port of Kamares. The village has a museum of popular arts and folklore. The similarly sized village of Artemonas boasts striking Venetian houses and the nearby village of Kastro is also adorned with Venetian refinements.

The port of Kamares has lovely waterside cafes and taverns complemented by ceramics shops. You can take a boat from here to the pretty hamlet of Vathy in the south which specializes in local pottery.

The east coast is well served by a bus service linking Kamares with Apollonia and Kastro as is the lively resort of Platys Gialos which has a splendid sandy beach.