By Alejandra Roman
July 2, 2008
July 2, 2008
A two hour drive from the bustling port of Mytilini through winding roads and hilly terrain, it is no wonder that many tourists stop off at any of the numerous destinations instead of making it to the tiny coastal village of Sigri. Which may partly be a reason why Sigri has remained the little jewel that it is.
When visitors arrive in Sigri, they quickly realize that small really is beautiful. The village has a permanent population of roughly 300, and during peak travel months, Sigri’s population can exceed 600 people on average. The quaintness of the village offers an unquestionable air of hospitability; visitors instantly feel welcomed, as locals never fail to smile and greet passers-by
If you are looking for pampering and luxury, Sigri is not for you. Sigri, still a fisherman’s village, has more to offer visitors than mass produced vacation packages. The village is genuinely beautiful and reveals an authentic Greek life that continues to beat on even after the last tourists leave at the end of the season.
How to spend a day in Sigri
You can start out at the Museum of the Petrified Forest for some insight into the island’s geomorphological history or browse the café/gift shop for locally made goods. After all, who wants to buy souvenirs made in china while visiting Greece?
From the museum, the village is pretty much all down hill and it is best to explore by foot and wander the small roads to take in the beautifully maintained homes with flourishing balconies and brightly colored doors and shutters. Visitors cannot miss the main cobblestone path toward the harbor that leads to the village center, where you will find a handful of restaurants, cafes and bars. With regards to dining, we are talking quality not quantity. Menus are probably more of a formality because these restaurants tend to serve only that which is fresh, but you are sure to always find some Greek staples such as Greek salad, stuffed vine leaves, and as for seafood, simply ask what is the day’s specials.
The village induces a leisurely vibe. With out many main attractions, there is not much to do but sip an ice-cold Mythos, the local beer, on any of the beaches that surround the village.
Both locals and tourists alike enjoy the village beach, but if you are looking for a more reclusive location, you can walk either a few kilometers north or south of the center to find quiet, deserted beaches.
If you are looking for a more rigorous way to spend your time, there is always the possibility to hike through the outskirts of the village.
How can you end an already perfect day? Climb to the top of what remains of the Turkish castle, which over looks the sea and be prepared for a spectacular sunset.
When visitors arrive in Sigri, they quickly realize that small really is beautiful. The village has a permanent population of roughly 300, and during peak travel months, Sigri’s population can exceed 600 people on average. The quaintness of the village offers an unquestionable air of hospitability; visitors instantly feel welcomed, as locals never fail to smile and greet passers-by
If you are looking for pampering and luxury, Sigri is not for you. Sigri, still a fisherman’s village, has more to offer visitors than mass produced vacation packages. The village is genuinely beautiful and reveals an authentic Greek life that continues to beat on even after the last tourists leave at the end of the season.
How to spend a day in Sigri
You can start out at the Museum of the Petrified Forest for some insight into the island’s geomorphological history or browse the café/gift shop for locally made goods. After all, who wants to buy souvenirs made in china while visiting Greece?
From the museum, the village is pretty much all down hill and it is best to explore by foot and wander the small roads to take in the beautifully maintained homes with flourishing balconies and brightly colored doors and shutters. Visitors cannot miss the main cobblestone path toward the harbor that leads to the village center, where you will find a handful of restaurants, cafes and bars. With regards to dining, we are talking quality not quantity. Menus are probably more of a formality because these restaurants tend to serve only that which is fresh, but you are sure to always find some Greek staples such as Greek salad, stuffed vine leaves, and as for seafood, simply ask what is the day’s specials.
The village induces a leisurely vibe. With out many main attractions, there is not much to do but sip an ice-cold Mythos, the local beer, on any of the beaches that surround the village.
Both locals and tourists alike enjoy the village beach, but if you are looking for a more reclusive location, you can walk either a few kilometers north or south of the center to find quiet, deserted beaches.
If you are looking for a more rigorous way to spend your time, there is always the possibility to hike through the outskirts of the village.
How can you end an already perfect day? Climb to the top of what remains of the Turkish castle, which over looks the sea and be prepared for a spectacular sunset.
