There is (thankfully) little to do on this small Greek island in the Aegean Sea.
Serifos was the island on which Perseus, wearing the winged shoes of Hermes and the helmet of invisibility lent by Athena, cut off Medusa's gorgon head, petrifying the rest of her enemies with it and saving Andromeda from the dragon that stalked her.
The island is the perfect setting for this drama, with an arid, wild and mountainous landscape; lush little valleys and whitewashed cottages nestled between hills and steep, rocky slopes: one of the most dramatic contexts in Greece, with a solitude that echoes between the rocks and the churning waves.
Serifos, the island of the legend of Perseus.
Along its history, iron mining was the most important activity on the island. Several Hellenistic towers and remains of forts still stand near Megalo Livaldo, a village in the western part of Serifos that was the center of mining in the 19th century.
The island today maintains preserved much of its authenticity and atmosphere of a fishing village, Probably thanks to the fact that it does not have its own airport, so visitors can only arrive by ferry.
Pure Greek hedonism.
The most memorable thing here is, without a doubt, the medieval village of Chora, a picturesque mountaintop village reached by a winding road of almost five kilometers and the Taxiarchion monastery. However, beyond the essential visits, this place can be enjoyed without making plans, without looking at the clock and in small sips. Contemplating a landscape that has been intact for centuries and landing in the most idyllic corners.
Next, take note of the travelogue to enjoy this destiny of gods.
Lose yourself in the relaxed charm of this remote island.
HOW TO GET
When your flight lands at the Athens airport, take a bus to the port of Piraeus. Then board the ferry to Serifos, whose journey takes about two and a half hours.
Not having its own airport, the island still maintains its spirit and original atmosphere, away from the masses of tourists.
WHERE TO SLEEP
Coco-Mat Eco Residence: What were once the miners' houses are now a small resort on Vagia beach. The traditional residences have sea views and beautiful gardens. They are friendly to the environment and equipped with the hotel's own signature furniture.
Serifos does not have its own airport, which keeps its atmosphere more preserved from the massive arrival of visitors.
Hipaway Villas: If you are looking for more privacy, here they have a collection of villas brimming with personality that rest on their own coves.
The Captain's House: In Chora, a 19th-century mansion now owned by posh Manos and Emmy. It is a wonderful traditional Greek house, with high ceilings, exquisite details and decorated with antiques.
Can you imagine the Mediterranean calm on an island like this?
WHERE TO EAT
MANALIS, Psili Ammos Beach
On this idyllic sandy beach there are two tavernas that are an oasis for thirsty and dusty hikers. This one in particular serves the typical horiatiki salad, as well as grilled chicken, keftedes (meat dumplings), roasted eggplant and stewed okra.
A walk through the streets of the island is reason enough to visit it.
Yacht Club Serifs (Tel. +30 2281051888): It was built in 1938 and is the place to go for a perfect breakfast or evening cocktails by the sea. You will have a hard time leaving without taking the last one.
Stratus: There is a fabulous plateia in Chora which is the meeting point for writers, artists and the most chic young people who come to enjoy the most appetizing sunsets. It is right there where this iconic cafe is always frequented by locals. The turquoise chairs and tables of the area's favorite kafeneio, Stou Stratou, is also a must most genuine.
Mediterranean architecture in Serifos.
Margarita: While the restaurants in Livadi, by the sea, are always full, you can find an authentic alternative in this restaurant, run by a Greek granny who prepares a different menu every night and, what is better, outdoors.
TO DO
Taxiarchion Monastery: It is the historical jewel of Serifos and An essential on your roadmap. Dedicated to the patrons of the island, the archangels Gabriel and Miguel and with an architecture similar to that of a fortress, with a wall to protect it from pirates and looting.
Calm, peace and Mediterranean breeze... we are in Serifos.
***This report was published in *number 146 of Condé Nast Traveler Magazine (Summer 2021) . Subscribe to the printed edition (€18.00, annual subscription, by calling 902 53 55 57 or from our website). The summer issue of Condé Nast Traveler is available in its digital version to enjoy on your favorite device