SENTIERS DE RANDONNÉE À SIFNOS

This long island (15 kilometres by 6 kilometres) will delight walkers. With more than 100 kilometres of trails, Sifnos is a great destination for hiking. The municipal association Sifnos Trails is in charge of promoting hiking on the island and of marking the paths every year: it publishes a map of the paths which you can find at the tourist office. Here is a selection of some particularly interesting walks, but there are many other walks worth your time. There are some that are suitable for the whole family, on easy, stony paths, lasting less than 30 minutes.

Path 4 loop Platys Gialos - Fikadia:

11.4 kilometres with 260 metres of difference in height; duration: 4 hours; moderate to difficult difficulty. This trail is particularly recommended for those who want to do a loop (there are only two loops among the trails of Sifnos) and are looking for a route that allows a stop for a swim and offers a diversity of landscapes between the coast and the land. It will help you discover the south of the island. The walk starts in Platys Gialos where you can buy snacks and water for the day. The trail begins with a somewhat strenuous climb to the Profitis Ilias Kondou church (not to be confused with the Profitis Ilias monastery described below). You will walk through juniper trees and be rewarded with a superb panoramic view once you reach the top. Further on, the descent to the bay of Fikadia is magnificent, offering 180 degree views of the Aegean Sea. Once you reach the deserted beach of Fikadia, take a break and swim in the clear waters of the bay guarded by the tranquil Aghios Georgios chapel. The last section of the trail follows the coast. Take a moment to spot the church of Kitriani on the islet of Kitriani opposite you. It is the oldest church on Sifnos. The end of the trail will take you back to Platys Gialos.

Path 6B Fyrogia - Profitis Ilias Monastery

: 3.6 kilometers with 470 meters of ascent; duration: 1 hour and 50 minutes; no loop possible but connection with the loop of path 6; moderate to difficult difficulty.

If you are a good walker, climb to the monastery of the prophet Elijah to see the Cyclades at dawn or when the sun is setting. The walk is not very difficult except for the constant climb to the highest point of the island. The monastery was built on the ruins of an ancient fortification in the 12th century. It remained in operation until 1890. The view from the highest point of the island is exceptional and you will not forget it in a hurry. In July, during the feast of Saint Elijah, you can participate in the traditional feast: chickpea soup at will and dance until the early morning. This is a great opportunity to get in touch with the Siphniots in a unique setting.

Path 7 Artemonas - Agios Simeon

: 6 kilometers with 320 meters of ascent; duration: 2 hours; no loop possible; easy to moderate difficulty. This trail starts from the centre of Artemonas, in the main square. You will first discover this beautiful village before crossing the fertile region of Kalambelas: olive trees, vineyards, grain fields. Here you will see the agricultural face of Sifnos. The ascent starts only after this valley. You will follow a wide stone path, leaving behind the public dump. The ascent does not involve any particular difficulty beyond its steepness. It will lead you to the beautiful church of Agios Simeon, 486 m above sea level. There you will have an impressive view of the surroundings and the Aegean Sea. In September, for St. Simeon's Day, the Siphniots gather in the church for the usual festivities: feast, music and dance.

In the villages. But the walks are not limited to these marked paths. The village of Artemonas offers without doubt the most picturesque walks, in its enchanting scented streets. You can then push on to the village of Pano Petali, crossing the bridge. A short (quick) climb will give you a beautiful view. And, of course, you can continue from there to the square of Apollonia. From the square, the view of the sea is dazzling.

Precautions : it is not advisable to hike in July and August, when temperatures are too high. Spring is particularly suitable for walking; you will discover green and flowery landscapes. Autumn is also recommended for its milder temperatures. In summer, if you insist on walking, go very early in the morning or after 5pm. In all seasons, don't forget to stay hydrated and bring more than 1.5 litres of water per person. In the hottest seasons, wear a hat, long sleeves and don't forget the sun cream. Among the possible inconveniences, you may encounter vipers on the paths of Sifnos. If you come across a snake, do not try to frighten it, but walk around it quietly. If you are bitten by a viper, try to stay calm and go to the medical centre. Finally, do not smoke on the paths and do not light fires: the risk of fire is high in the bush.