Hiking on Serifos: Monopati Trail
Hiking on Serifos guarantees spectacular views that can only be experienced in the Cycladic islands. The historic Monopati is a hike full of panoramic moments.
Hiking on Serifos
How I almost blew off a mountain…
For Easter weekend, I joined some friends on Serifos. The weather wasn’t perfect, in my opinion, because those meltemi island winds were blowing harder than I would’ve liked.
Still, we decided that a hike up the Monopati, a trail just west of the island’s hilltop Chora (main town). We figured it would be a great way to spend a part of a sunny and windy day on the island.
Until I almost blew off the mountainside. Just kidding. However, the winds were incredibly strong!
The Monopati Trail
It was an easy hike because most of the trail was stone paths. Locals told us that it was the same path that the miners once walked for a good hour or more to get to the mining caves in Mega Livadi. The views were breathtaking.
We stopped at a church about 45 minutes into the hike for a few photos. We decided to turn around at that point to continue on other sight seeing missions for our guests. However, you can keep walking on.
How to Get to the Monopati Trail
Take the bus or drive up to the hilltop main town. If you are driving, park in the lower parking area of Chora next to Plakes taverna. From the bus stop you can walk a few minutes to Plakes taverna. You’ll see some signs on the rocks where the trail starts.
How to Get to Serifos
To get to the Greek islands, many international travelers arrive by air, usually with a change in Athens or another major city. There are some direct seasonal flights to certain island destinations too. You can find the best flight deals with Vayama.
The only way to travel to Serifos is by ferry or private boat/yacht from the port of Piraeus in Athens. The island does not have an airport.
The frequency of ferries depends on the season. Ferries leave from the port of Piraeus in Athens. The trip lasts anywhere from 2.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on if you book a seat on a fast or slow ferry. For updated ferry schedules check www.openseas.gr. I usually take the SpeedRunner which is about a 2.5 hour journey (45-50 Euro each way).
There are regular connections to the other west Cyclades, including Milos, Kythnos and Sifnos.
Where to Stay in Serifos
Boutique: Rizes Hotel is a four-star hotel with a beautiful pool, individual plunge pools, a great view, excellent buffet breakfast and a beautiful view to the Chora and the Aegean Sea. From €100 a night, depending on the season. Coco-Mat, the luxury Greek brand, also has a small boutique hotel right on Vagia beach.
Mid-Range: The Livadi is ideal for a convenient stay, especially for those without a car. You’d be within walking distance to everything: beaches, eateries, nightlife and the ferries. For an atmospheric apartment stay with lovely amenities, I recommend Indigo. From €80 a night, depending on the season.
Basic: For a basic clean rooms, no frills, I recommend Ms. Lambrini’s Cavo d’Oro (+30 2281 051160). From €50 a night, depending on the season.
Where to Eat on Serifos
For a rundown of the eateries in Serifos, check out my post the Best Restaurants in Serifos.
What to Do in Serifos
Serifos is a nature lovers dream. There are many beautiful beaches, more hiking trails and a fantastic Chora (main town) to explore. I frequent this island the most so I have tons of posts about everything Serifos on this blog!
Have you ever gone hiking on Serifos?
