Artemonas in Sifnos is situated far from Apollonia, the island’s capital. This small village is on top of a hill and features two old windmills. The views from there are unique and definitely, worth visiting.
It is a quiet village and takes its name after the Goddess Artemis, the Goddess of the animals and hunting. It has old mansions and churches. The streets are narrow cobbled alleys, and you can find some restaurants where you can try traditional homemade dishes. If you want quiet holidays away from crowds, this village is the best place to stay.
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Visiting the Village of Artemonas
How to get to Artemonas
You can get a bus from Kamares or Apollonia to Artemonas and Kastro. It should take around 18-20 minutes, and the cost is 2-3 euros. Buses are every hour, but the schedule can change in low seasons.
You can take a taxi, which will take you around 10 minutes from Kamares or Apollonia. The cost of the ride might be something between 10-15 euros. Again depends on the season.
Another option is to hire a car. Again with a car, you will get to Artemonas in about 10 minutes from Kamares or Apollonia, and prices vary for car rentals. Vehicles in the village are not allowed. There is a designated parking area at the village entrance, where you can leave your car or motorbike. Vehicles in most streets in the village are only for pedestrians. There is a designated parking area at the village entrance, where you can leave your car or motorbike.
You can always hike or ride a bike. Try to do it early in the morning or evening, as the sun can be extreme.
History of Artemonas
The village is the homeland of the national fighter Nikolaos Chrissogelos and the poet Ioannis Gryparis. You can visit the traditional house of the poet, where he was born. The churches of Panagia and Kochi have fascinating architecture, especially if you are intrigued by charming old buildings. In Panagia of Ammos, you can see the icon of Panagia the Monachi, which is a rare representation of the Virgin Mary without holding Jesus.
On another note, if it happens to be there beginning of September, you will be able to participate in the “Festival of Cycladic Gastronomy, Nikolaos Tselementes.” The festival lasts for three days, and you can experience representations of traditional Sifnian weddings, etc. It takes place at the village square, and many Cycladic islands have booths where you can taste traditional delicacies and various events.
Where to stay in Artemonas
Verina Astra offers rooms with balconies and amazing views of the Aegean Sea. It is 3 kilometers from Artemonas, but the view and the set on the hill’s edge will leave you breathless.
Windmill Vilas is 150 meters walk from the center of the village. It offers unlimited views of the Aegean Sea and is built around an old windmill.
Planning to visit Sifnos island? Check out my guides:
How to get from Athens to Sifnos
A Guide to Sifnos Island
Best hotels in Sifnos
Best beaches in Sifnos
A Guide to Vathi, Sifnos
A Guide to Kastro, Sifnos
A Guide to Apollonia, Sifnos
A Guide to Kamares, Sifnos
What to do near Artemonas
Sifnos has lots of churches and Artemonas too. Most likely, you will get the chance to experience a church festival. Make sure you ask the locals about the festivals and visit one. You will be able to taste traditional chickpea soup and lamb with potatoes. Also, you can dance and sing with the locals until the early morning.
On the other hand, you can visit different villages and beaches in Kamares and Vathi. They are not very far from Artemonas. Also, while you stay in the town, you can visit the Kastro area and take lots of amazing photos. In the village you will find traditional pastry-making workshops, so why don’t you try to join?
After Artemonas, there is a Cultural Center of Sifnos, and you can check various exhibitions and join several events all year round.
The island of Sifnos is small, so getting around is easy and quick. So, staying in a hotel in this island’s capital and moving around is pretty straightforward. The best time to go is April-October; during these months, the weather is warm, and you shouldn’t experience any ferry delays due to weather conditions.