Parga is the only true resort in Epirus, that mountainous province of north west Greece. Like Sivota further up the coast, Parga has beautiful natural surroundings. Its hills are covered in olive, pine and cypress, a perfect complement to the attractive indented coastline and wooded islets just offshore.
The town shelters behind a rocky headland crowned by a Venetian fort. An array of brightly canopied cafés and restaurants lines the waterfront. Behind, narrow lanes, small shops and old houses climb the hill. Night life is whatever you want to make it, from traditional tavernas to lively music bars.
There is a perfectly fine town beach, from which you can pedalo or swim to one of the islands in the bay. However most head for magnificent Valtos beach just around the headland, or Lichnos further south. Both are long, sheltered and sandy, and have a full range of watersports. Watertaxis shuttle inexpensively ‘twixt harbour and beach. The more energetic can walk over the headland to Valtos in about 20 minutes.
Epirus is well worth exploring. You don’t have to go far to be in the midst of untamed country containing an abundance of bird and wildlife. Storks, their nests precariously balanced on the tops of telegraph poles, are some of the easiest to spot. Excursions now run to Albania, as well as to the historic lakeside town of Ioannina, the amphitheatre at Dodoni, the Perama Caves, the island of Paxos and up the Acheron River (which, according to mythology, was the entrance to Hades!).
Parga is an organised resort which holds great appeal for all ages and nationalities. It gets particularly busy in the high season and sometimes at weekends with Greeks. So far Parga’s character and charm have enabled it to survive its recent popularity – there are no big hotels for example. However, if you can, visit off-season when this still delightful town is at its best.
Parga and Epirus
Inland, Epirus is recognized as one of Europe’s prime areas of outstanding natural beauty. With mountains, lakes, gorges, forests, preserved stone villages and a flora and fauna unique to the region, it is one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Improved roads mean that, for those staying in Lefkas, Parga or Sivota with a hire car, it is a 2-3 hour drive to Ioannina, the lakeside capital of the region. We would urge a visit and can pre-book some wonderful accommodation either for a few nights to be taken during your main holiday (from c £35 per person per night BB) or for your second week (from c £295 pp including car).
Please see our Hidden Greece section for details and then call us on 020 8758 4758 for a pricing.
