Visiting Sivota, Thesprotia
Nestled along the stunning coastline of the Ionian Sea, Sivota is a picturesque village that offers an idyllic retreat for travellers seeking tranquility, fitness and natural beauty. This hidden gem in Northwestern Greece is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, but it boasts lush rugged coastlines with sheltered beaches and crystal-clear waters in the region.
After working and living in Sivota over two summer seasons, I’ll share what makes Sivota, Thesprotia a must-visit Greek destination and perfect for a escape with lots to offer.
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Getting to Sivota Thesprotia
- Sivota is located in the Thesprotia region of Epirus, Greece.
- The easiest airport is Preveza (less than 1.5 hours away).
- Visitors can also reach Sivota by ferry from Corfu (if you are flying into Corfu International Airport and Aktion National Airport and connect via boat from the island) or to the nearby cities like Igoumenitsa (24km away).
What Are The Best Things to See & Do In Sivota
Natural Beauty and Scenic Landscapes
Islets and Hidden Coves
Sivota is surrounded by several small islets, including Mavro Oros and Agios Nikolaos, offering secluded beaches and peaceful retreats.
Blue Lagoon: A must-visit cove with incredibly clear, blue waters, perfect for a day of swimming and sunbathing.
Breathtaking Beaches
Bella Vraka Beach: Accessible by a short walk through shallow waters, this beach is famous for its turquoise waters and unique location.
Mega Ammos Beach: Known for its pebbled shore and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Zavia Beach: A quieter spot ideal for relaxation and family outings.
Gallikos Molos Beach (pictured above): This is close to the main town and easy to walk to. You can relax here, grab a drink at the beach bar or go for a swim in the shallow waters.
Rent a Powerboat out of the day
We used to do this quite a bit on our days off and head to different coves and beaches along this stretch of coastline. Sometimes we would just head out to no where really and go for a swim next to the boat.
If you have experience or know how to drive a power boat, you can hire a private boat from Sivota town for up to 5 people for the day.
Head on a Boat day Trip to The Islands
Boat Trip from Sivota to Corfu
This is a favourite for people visiting the area who want to see for Corfu, but maybe don’t fancy the crowds and hustle of the popular island. If you’re planning island hopping or want a long stay to explore Corfu, check out this detailed guide on about Corfu for more insights.
It is also worth A day trip to Corfu picking you up from the marina, is a perfect way to see a bit more of this stunning country. Corfu is close enough to see and on a calm day would take less than an hour to get there.
Boat Trip from Sivota to Paxos Island
Similar to Corfu, Paxos Island is hust a short ferry ride from Sivota. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. You could book for a day trip there or stay over on the island to fully enjoy it.
If you are have access to a boat or Yatch it’s also accessible that way. We took a yatch over from work on our day off and had a wonderful time. You will be stunned at how blue and clear the waters are with lush rugged coastline surrounded by wild green trees and bush. It’s exactly as you picture the greek islands to be (with less crowds than you find on the tourist trail). Explore the vibrant town of Gaios, visit the blue caves, and relax on Voutoumi Beach on the nearby Antipaxos Island.
Your Chance to See Dolphins in the wild
Whilst living in Sivota, I got chance to head on a few boat trips including both of the above, and each time I saw pods of dolphins.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding Around Bella Vraka
Rent a kayak or paddleboard if you don’t have access to one where you are staying and explore the hidden beaches and tiny islands dotted all over this spot of coastline. I used to love teaching paddleboarding here, especially the SUPfit or SUP Yoga classes, it was just so calm and relaxing.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving off the Ionian Coast
Explore the underwater world teeming with marine life and fascinating rock formations. There is a fantastic dive school located in Sivota located on the edge of town towards the hill that leads up to Bella Vraka.
Join a flottilla or day Sail
With the low winds this is a great place for beginners to learn how to sail or even windsurf in the sheltered bays, as the wind picks up a little in the afternoon you can head out with larger sails to the edge of the sailing areas which have less protection.
Sivota is also a stop on North Ionian flotilla routes and you may end up visiting on some of the less touristy island hopping tours.
Wakeboarding and Waterskiing
The water conditions around sivota are ideal for wakeboarding, surfing and waterskiing. Due to it’s sheltered position and low wind, the water is like glass almost every day.
I was really lucky that I got to do this on my lunch break when working at the Retreat, and we had an amazing ski team that were incredibly talented and put on shows every week too.
Paragliding above Sivota
You can also arrange to go paragliding and view Sivota from above for less than £70. With the scattered islands, beaches and rugged terrain of Thesprotia, I can guarentee you will have plenty to see on your journey down.
Fishing
Enjoy a day of fishing in the rich waters of the Ionian Sea. You can either hire a boat from the town or head out on a boat trip.
Best Places to eat In Sivota
- Seafood Taverns: Try local delicacies at seaside tavernas, such as grilled octopus, fresh fish, and seafood pasta.
- Traditional Greek Restaurants: Indulge in classic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salads, accompanied by local wines.
- Cafes and Bars: Relax at a beachfront café or enjoy a cocktail at a lively bar with stunning sunset views.
Where to Stay In Sivota
- The Retreat: Enjoy stunning views and access to Bella Vraka beach with top-notch amenities. I would suggest staying here for fitness and a spa experience. This is the resort I used to be based at as the head of fitness. They are now ran by a danish company called Playitas, and the fitness programme is on a bigger scale.
- Karvouno: For a more relaxed stay you can’t go wrong with Karvouno. One of my colleagues and my old manager got married here too. This complex of small villas accompanied with a beach bar and restaurant give the feeling of intimacy hidden from the main town.
- Vacation Rentals: Opt for a private villa or apartment rental for a home-away-from-home feel. We stayed at a in a few rental apartments during my husband’s (then boyfriend’s) visit to see me whilst living in Siv. Our Favourite was Angela Studios which was just in the town square area, which is a lot quiter than the places we stayed along the marina. We still had wonderful views of the sea and a minute walk into the town.
Nearby Attractions: Exploring More of western Greece
Hiking and Nature Trails
- Sivota-Mourtos Hiking Trail: A scenic trail offering panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding countryside.
- Acheron River: Take a day trip to the nearby Acheron River, known for its mythological significance and stunning landscapes, ideal for hiking and river rafting.
Cultural and Historical Attractions Close to Sivota
Archaeological Sites
- Ancient Nikopolis: Located near Preveza, this archaeological site offers insights into ancient Greek and Roman history.
- Necromanteion of Acheron: An ancient Greek temple dedicated to Hades and Persephone, believed to be the entrance to the underworld.
Local Culture and Traditions
- Traditional Festivals: Experience local festivals and events, such as the Sivota Regatta, which celebrates maritime traditions.
- Local Cuisine: Savor traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas, featuring fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and regional wines.
Parga
Located about 30 km southeast of Sivota, Parga is a picturesque coastal town with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a rich history. Visit the Venetian Castle of Parga for panoramic views, enjoy the lively Valtos Beach, and take a boat trip to the nearby islet of Panagia.
Lefkada
Lefkada Island is another one of my favourites after spending some time working no the island in Vassiliki and heading there for days off when living in Sivota and Palairos. Lefkada is known for its breathtaking beaches, such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni, and its vibrant nightlife. Visit the traditional village of Agios Nikitas, explore the stunning waterfalls of Dimosari, and enjoy water sports in Vasiliki Bay.
Ioannina
About 80 km northeast of Sivota, Ioannina is a historical city located by Lake Pamvotida, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Explore the Ioannina Castle, visit the Island of Ioannina in the middle of the lake, and discover the fascinating Perama Cave.
Metsovo
A scenic mountain village located about 100 km northeast of Sivota, Metsovo is famous for its traditional architecture and local products. Visit the Averoff Gallery, taste local wines at Katogi Averoff Winery, and enjoy hiking in the nearby Pindus Mountains.
FAQs about Sivota Thesprotia
What is the best time to visit Sivota Thesprotia?
The best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
How can I reach Sivota from Corfu?
You can fly into Preveza and get a transfer or Taxi from there to Sivota, or take a ferry from Corfu to Igoumenitsa, and then drive or take a bus to Sivota.
Are there any water sports available in Sivota?
Yes, Sivota offers a variety of water sports including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and sailing.
What are some must-visit beaches in Sivota?
Bella Vraka, Mega Ammos, and Zavia Beach are some of the top beaches to visit.
Is Sivota suitable for family vacations?
Absolutely! Sivota’s calm waters, family-friendly beaches, and range of activities make it a great destination for families.
What kind of accommodation options are available in Sivota?
Sivota offers a range of accommodation options including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. Though it has plenty of bars, hotels and options for tourists, it’s maintained it’s greek charm and sense of authenticity.
Conclusion
Sivota Thesprotia is a destination that promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beach holiday, an active adventure, or a cultural exploration, Sivota offers something for every traveler. Plan your visit to this enchanting village and discover why Sivota Thesprotia is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Sivota looks like such a hidden gem in Greece, and I love how you highlighted both the beautiful beaches and the charming village atmosphere. I had no idea there were so many stunning coves to explore by boat, like Blue Lagoon and Bella Vraka. I would love to see pods of dolphins there! Your tips on visiting in the off-season to avoid the crowds are super helpful too. Definitely adding Sivota to my Greece travel list!
There is so much more to discover in the Greece than I knew about. I love the idea of Sivota, that is less visited than the more famous areas but still has plenty to do. The beachesand being out on the water would keep us engaged for many days. Although my waterskiing days are behind me! A lovely one to keep in mind when we finally plan our Greek escape!