Vathi in Sifnos island is on the southwest side. The name means that the small port is deeper than the surrounding area. Another meaning that some locals give is that the water is very deep near the land for ships to approach it.
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Visiting the Village of Vathi in Sifnos
Things to do in Vathi
This small fish village is located around 10 kilometers from the island’s capital Apollonia. The sandy beach with deep blue waters is one of the most extensive beaches on the island. It stretches approximately 1 kilometer. The peaceful, crystal-clear sea and the fantastic surrounding of high cliffs is something that you have to experience.
Along the beach, you can find many facilities such as bars and restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional Greek delicacies. Also, you can choose to lay under the shadow of a tree and enjoy the summer breeze.
A unique characteristic of this village is the Church of Taxiarches, which stands in front of the small port, and is ideal for summer weddings. So, if you happen to be there in the summer, you might be lucky enough to experience a traditional Greek island wedding. The locals will be happy to join them in the celebrations.
Also, if you happen to be there on the 4th of September, you can experience the celebrations of the church, which happen the day before the name day of the church (the 5th of September). 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.
Planning a trip to Sifnos? Check out my guides:
How to get from Athens to Sifnos
Things to do in Sifnos
Best beaches in Sifnos
Best hotels in Sifnos
How to get to Vathy
You can get a bus from Apollonia or Kamares to Vathi. It should take around 30-40 minutes. Buses are every 2 hours, but the schedule can change in low seasons.
You can take a taxi, which will take you around 16 minutes. The cost of the ride might be something between 20-30 euros. Again depends on the season.
Another option is to hire a car. Again with a car, you will get to Vathi in about 16 minutes, and prices vary for different 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.
You can always hike or ride a bike. Try to do it early in the morning or evening, as the sun can be extreme. Lots of the hiking paths through the NATURA-protected areas start at Vathi.
In the past, the only way to get to Vathi was to get a small boat from Kamares. It used to leave at 10 am and come back at 6 pm. The trip took an hour each way. The road is new and very nice as you go through Apollonia and see the windmills.
History of Vathi
In this area, you can visit the most important archaeological sites on the island. These ruins show the continuous inhabiting of the island from the Mycenean to the Hellenistic Times. It has brought to light a large part of the Mycenean wall of the 12th B.C. Until the Second World War, the village’s main activity was pottery.
The old footpath is an old settlement of potters and starts from Katavati. In this part of the island, people where cultivate art skills. It is a must to buy something made of clay from Vathi, as it is handmade and unique.
Where to stay in Vathi
Elies Resort is only 250m from the beach. It is surrounded by olive trees and has stylish rooms and villas overlooking the Aegean Sea. Champagne breakfast along with local flavors are served every day.
George’s Seaside Apartments Sifnos is located 200m from the beach and the center of the village. The apartments are newly renovated and can offer excellent views of the sea. There is a sun terrace too if you want to sunbathe with a view.
What to do near Vathy
On the road from Apollonia to Vathi, you will see the monastery of Fyrogia, and on your right side, the hill of Agios Andreas, with a church built back in 1701. The island has many churches, and even if you are not religious, you will be amazed by the architecture.
While being in Vathi, why you don’t take a pottery class? There are a couple of traditional pottery workshops. It can be a fun afternoon activity, and you can create your unique clay decoration for your house.
The island of Sifnos is small, so getting around is easy and quick. If you love beach holidays, Vathi is the place to be. You can visit many places not very far from Vathi. So, staying in a hotel in this village and moving around the island 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.