We remembered discovering Parga some years ago, and being amazed we'd found somewhere so lovely, with so much to offer, so close to the tourist hotspots of Corfu, yet still relatively unknown. And guess what? We've done it again!
Sivota is a 40 minute drive north of Parga on the way to Igoumenitsa, where the ferries leave for Italy. There's the town beach of sand and shingle at Mega Ammos, a small selection of tourist shops, some selling jewellery, and - well, to be honest, very little else! Evenings in Sivota start with an aperitif sitting in one of the fish tavernas or cafe bars around the pretty little harbour, watching a breathtaking sunset over southern Corfu across the water. The tavernas here can get quite busy in the evenings in high season, but nightlife in Sivota is very definitely 'low-key'.
There are several good beaches to sample, including Zavia, Agia Paraskevi, and Bela Vraka, dotted around the coastline and on a handful of pine-clad inshore islands.
They're best reached by small boat, a favourite way to explore, armed only with a picnic lunch, a beach bag, and of course, your trusty camera. Talking of boats, like many of Greece's more enticing little 'watering holes', Sivota is popular with the yachting crowd, who relish the resort's relaxed, laid-back atmosphere.
Day trips to Paxos are usually available if you're feeling adventurous, and of course, Parga's just down the road. But most of the time we suspect you'll be happy just to lie back and relax, contemplating the lush greenery of the thickly-wooded hillsides and sparkling seascapes, and enjoying the sheer unspoilt charm of Sivota.
