Description of the attraction
The island of Sikinos (in ancient times it was known as "Oine Island", which means "Vina Island" in Greek) is a small mountainous island in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, about 22 km from the island of Ios and 16 km from the island of Folegandros. The area of the island of Sikinos is about 42 km2, and the length of the coastline is 40 km. The population of Sikinos does not exceed 300 people.
Acquaintance with the island, as a rule, begins with Alopronia - the tourist center and the only port of Sikinos, located on the east coast of the island in a small picturesque bay. Here you will find mini-hotels, apartments, shops, markets, cozy taverns and cafes and an excellent sandy beach, which is rightfully considered one of the best beaches on the island.
3-4 km from Alopronia on the slopes of the hill, the administrative center of the island, the town of Chora or Chorio, is comfortably located, and only a few hundred meters from it is the village of Castro, founded in the 15th century. This is perhaps one of the most picturesque settlements in the Cyclades with labyrinths of narrow streets, pretty white houses, windmills and many old churches, including the Church of Our Lady of Pantanassa with a magnificent carved iconostasis (18th century). At the top of the hill stands the monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, abandoned in the first half of the 19th century, whose massive walls were once a safe haven for the inhabitants of the island. About an hour's walk to the south-west of Chora is one of the most famous monuments of Sikinos - the ruins of the Bishopi monastery, built on the ruins of an ancient Roman temple. The famous Black Cave, located in the northern part of the island, is definitely worth a visit, although you can only get to it by boat.
It is worth noting that the island of Sikinos is one of the "least popular" islands of the Cyclades archipelago and an ideal place for lovers of secluded relaxation, as well as a great opportunity to fully enjoy the authenticity and unforgettable flavor of this island Greece. You can visit the island, either with a one-day visit, or completely spend your vacation here, but it is worth considering that the choice of accommodation is very small and you should take care of booking in advance.
