Parga and Sivota
Parga and Sivota, nestled along the Epirus coastline in northwestern Greece, are two of the region’s most picturesque seaside towns, with a distinct mix of Ionian elegance and Greek authenticity. Parga is known for its colourful Venetian-style houses cascading down to the waterfront, overlooked by the ruins of a 14th-century castle offering sweeping views over the bay. Sivota, a short drive south, is a cluster of serene coves and small islands best explored by boat or paddleboard. Both towns provide easy access to natural attractions, such as the Acheron River springs for hiking or rafting, and hidden beaches like Bella Vraka and Valtos, where the turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and kayaking.
Culture here leans towards the traditional, with lively summer festivals and folk music performances in village squares, often featuring local dances and regional costumes. In Parga, visit the Ecclesiastical Museum or the Olive Oil Factory for a deeper dive into local heritage. Sivota is more low-key, but you’ll find charming coastal walks, small chapels, and nearby archaeological sites like Ancient Gitana or the Nekromanteion of Acheron. The setting is ideal for a slower pace – boat hire, snorkelling, and sunset strolls are part of the rhythm. If you’re keen to explore further inland, the nearby mountains hide stone villages and forest trails, adding a surprising layer to the coastal experience.
Food is a highlight in both Parga and Sivota, shaped by the region’s agricultural roots and proximity to the sea. Traditional tavernas serve dishes like grilled octopus, prawn saganaki, and slow-cooked lamb with herbs, often accompanied by locally produced wine or ouzo. Seafood is particularly fresh in Sivota, where harbourside restaurants receive their catch straight from the boats. In Parga, the old town’s narrow lanes are filled with family-run spots offering meze, homemade pies, and honey-soaked sweets. Whether you’re after beachside dining or a tucked-away courtyard meal, the cuisine across this stretch of the Ionian coast is consistently simple, seasonal and packed with flavour.
Highlights of Parga and Sivota
Our Favourite Hotels in Parga and Sivota
Parga Beach Hotel
Directly on the beautiful Valtos beach, this well-established hotel offers top-quality accommodation. The beach boasts a coveted Blue Flag and provides a variety of water sports. Shaded by majestic centuries-old olive trees, the hotel’s gardens offer a peaceful natural retreat from the day’s heat. The hotel comprises 135 spacious rooms and suites, housed in stone-built bungalow units within the gardens. These units are ground or first floor and feature all the modern amenities you would expect, including twin or double beds with orthopaedic mattresses and a pillow menu. Room service is also available.
Premium rooms can accommodate two to three adults plus a child. They are tastefully furnished in a classic style and some can interconnect. Each room has a balcony or veranda overlooking the gardens, and a few offer partial sea views.
The Suites are mostly open plan and offer stunning garden views. The Grand Bliss Suite comprises two separate rooms, the Horizon Suite has a kitchenette and sea views, and the Perfect Bliss Suite has its own small pool.
Marbella Elix
Nestled above the breathtaking Karavostasi beach, offering panoramic views across the Ionian Sea, Elix is a rare gem. This luxurious and adventurous destination has been recognised by Condé Nast Traveller’s 2022 Hotlist.
Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and pristine pine forests, Elix is a natural playground that invites you to escape the digital world and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Hiking, cycling, and water sports await you, all accompanied by breathtaking views of Paxos, Antipaxos, and Corfu islands. Private tours take you to must-see sights and into the Grecian wilderness.
Indulge in the luxury of private infinity pools with stunning views. The tennis court caters to beginners and experienced players alike, while the gym and spa offer a range of fitness and wellness options. Karavostasi, one of Greece’s most renowned beaches, is conveniently accessible by a private funicular railway or a scenic tree-shaded path. Our restaurant provides refreshing drinks and snacks, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment throughout your stay.
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01442 879787
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