Secret Cyclades: Sifnos & Syros

Submerged mountain peaks, the islands are renowned for their craggy coastlines, with sandy beaches, whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and local gastronomy.

The Cyclades, a group of islands that go ‘cyclically’ around the sacred site of Delos, the island close to Mykonos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, and a UNESCO world heritage site.

With about 30 islands to choose from, we all know the famous ones, Mykonos, Santorini, Paros, let’s look at 2 of our favorite quieter Cycladic islands. 

Sifnos

A small island of 74 km² with a ferry port and daily boats in the summer from Athens and the other islands, Sifnos is a gem of an island, literally, in ancient times the island enjoyed wealth and prosperity from mining of gold, silver, and lead.

Nowadays it is known for beautiful golden beaches, stunning coves, and small villages. The beaches are partly organized and there is always space as Sifnos is a quiet, low-key island. Some activities include horse riding, scuba diving, and hiking on famous trails. With a network of over 100 km offering gorgeous vistas of the Aegean Sea and the landscape dotted with churches, of which there are over 360 on Sifnos.

Such a beautiful, peaceful island, no wonder native to Sifnos island are renowned poets such as Ioannis Gryparis, and Aristomenis Provelegios, and the famous chef Tselementés lived on the island, local gastronomy is still vibrant today with tavernas and restaurants serving delicious local dishes.

Syros

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, 84 km², with a national airport and daily flights from Athens and a ferry port with daily ferries, is well connected, and definitely worth visiting. In the 19th century the port of Syros was more significant than Piraeus, and today it is a wonderful island that offers something different from the other Cycladic islands.

The architecture of the main towns is a highlight, with marble-paved streets, museums, art galleries, shops, and main squares vibrant with local life. The nicest beaches are in the south of the island, partly organized with crystal clear water, peddles, and sand, there is also tennis, water sports, scuba diving, horse riding, and daily cruises leaving from the port. With plenty to see and do, and so much history and culture, Syros has something for everyone.

There is no better way to experience a Greek island than staying in a luxury villa, BlueVillas Reservations Team will assist you in selecting the best island villa for your vacation, plus BlueVillas Concierge Team will help you make the best holiday itinerary for you and all your family!

Don’t forget, if you want to bring your pet on your luxury Greek island vacation, many of our luxury villas are pet-friendly!