Parga

Between the two attractive towns of Parga and Sivota on the coast of Epirus, are mile upon mile of intricate latticework coastline, made up of tiny bays, sandy and pebbly beaches, green hills and emerald waters. You’ll find water sports and submarine adventures, beach bars, hotels and rooms to let to plan your perfect summer holiday. The postcard imagery is completed by the castle of Parga lording it over shops, restaurants and ouzo bars. Not too far away you can trek down the Acheron River and visit the oracle at the Necromanteion of Ephyra.

What to do in Parga and Sivota

The island feel of Parga

Parga will make you feel as if you are actually on an island thanks to its waterfront, picturesque alleys and architecture. The charming town spreads up the hill beneath the castle. In the summer, it is popular and its luxury resorts, rooms to let, restaurants, tavernas, cafes and bars fill up with visitors, but it never feels overcrowded. 

The castle of Parga

On the hill above town, you will walk through the vaulted corridors, battlements and gun rooms of the castle and become acquainted with its tumultuous history. This impressive attraction was built in the 14th century by the Normans, destroyed by the Ottomans, rebuilt in 1572 by the Venetians and restored by Ali Pasha in 1814. Open all day, it should be high on your list of sights to see.

The popular resort of Sivota 

Sivota became famous back in the sixties and various celebrities, such as Guy Laroche, built their summer villas here. It’s time you too discovered this picturesque fishing village whose name means “where the pigs graze” in ancient Greek.

A beach just for you

All you need is a motorboat to discover and enjoy the succession of beaches hidden in the tiny bays between Parga and Sivota. Just a few names to note down: Ai-Giannakis, Ai-Sostis, Valtos, Kryoneri, Lyhnos, Pogonia, Sarakiniko, Agia Paraskevi, Arillas, Gallikos Molos, Diapori…

Hidden gems of Parga and Sivota

The Necromanteion of Ephyra

Near the village of Mesopotamos is one of the most exceptional surviving oracles of the ancient world. It’s a must-see attraction in the area.

The abandoned village of Vrahonas

On the mountain east of Sivota is a hidden plateau holding the remains of the abandoned but picturesque village of Vrahona, consisting of some 50 ruined stone houses. The remains of a prehistoric acropolis add to the weight of history.

Trekking the Acheron valley

According to mythology, the shadowy spirits of the dead inhabited this valley. With Hermes and Charon as their guides, they would be led down the Acheron River and across Lake Acherousian to Hades. Nowadays, the only thing beckoning you down the same river is the call of an untamed wilderness, ideal for trekking. You’ll start this unforgettable holiday experience at the village of Glyki, about 40km from Igoumenitsa.