Serifos

Serifos, the island of somber mines and proud history, conceals beneath its soil iron and magnetite, dubbed Hercules’s stone as this iron oxide’s magnetism is seen as having superpowers. Magnetite was formed some 150 to 200 million years ago at the bottom of the ocean in the Sea of Tethys and its properties enrich the soil.

.Serifos is a charming, lesser-known gem in the Cyclades, renowned for its rugged natural beauty, pristine beaches, and traditional architecture. The island offers a tranquil escape from bustling tourist hotspots, with its picturesque Chora (main town) perched atop a hill, providing stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. With its narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses, and blue-domed churches, Serifos maintains a laid-back, authentic Greek island atmosphere that enchants visitors looking for an idyllic and slower-paced experience. From hidden coves to crystal-clear waters, Serifos is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

Gastronomy on Serifos

The island’s gastronomy is deeply rooted in traditional Cycladic cuisine, where fresh, local ingredients take centre stage. Serifos boasts a range of delicious dishes inspired by its agricultural and fishing traditions, with a focus on simplicity and flavours that highlight the freshness of local produce. Visitors can savor various specialities such as revithada (baked chickpeas), cooked slowly in a clay pot until soft and aromatic, a classic comfort food in Serifos. Another must-try dish is louza, a cured pork delicacy made with local spices and herbs, often served as a meze or appetizer.

Seafood is naturally a staple on the island, with freshly caught fish, octopus, and squid served grilled, fried, or in a savoury tomato-based stew. Serifos is also known for its goat and lamb dishes, prepared in traditionally with herbs like thyme, oregano, and rosemary, often cooked in wood-fired ovens for a unique flavour. Don’t miss the island’s distinctive cheeses, like xinomyzithra and manoura, which add a tangy twist to salads and pastries.

Locals on Serifos have preserved a traditional, sustainable approach to food, using what the land and sea provide. Whether you’re dining in a rustic taverna or a seaside restaurant, the dishes are a celebration of Serifos’s rich heritage, with recipes passed down through generations that connect visitors to the island’s unique history and culture.

The translucent wine produced on the island is also used in cooking to enhance the flavor of cured pork (louza and singlino) and sausage along with various spices.
A traditional spoon sweet is the sour wild cherry, while savory local dishes include chickpea stew with raisins and the local mizithra cheese matured in copper vats.