Parga - Information
Parga is a popular holiday destination which offers an un-matchable mix of scenery, gorgeous beaches and history. Located in the North West Preveza region of Greece, nestled within mountains and a board bay, it is truly one of those picture perfect destinations seen on postcards! Striking boats bob in the harbors, traditional tavernas fill the narrow cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses perch on the hilltops overlooking the dramatic bay below. It is with no surprise that Parga is just as popular with the naitve Greeks as it is with foreign tourists. With a great location, Parga offers easy access for day trips to the local islets of Sivota, Preveza and even Lefkada!
Day times can be spent in a very relaxing way in Parga Town. Explore the narrow paths and you will stumble upon tiny small hidden stores, family-run meze bars and ancient churches some of which are almost completely disintegrated. Parga Town enjoys its own small beach located just 5 minuets from the harbor. While the mesmerizing shores of Valtos Beach can be reached with a short taxi boat ride away.
A wide range of accommodation options can be found in Parga Town. Although there are some large, luxurious hotels in the town, accommodation mainly consists of self-catering studios and apartments or even traditional rooms to rent. The nearby beaches of Valots and Lichnos also provide accommodation such as small hotels and family-sized apartments right on the sea front.
Aside from the wonderful beaches, Parga also offers several historic monuments worth visiting such as the Ancient Venetian Castle and the Ottoman Castle in Anthoussa. A place of untouched natural beauty is the natrual springs of the River Acherontas.
Popular Attractions in Parga
Lichnos
Lichnos - considered to be among one of the most pretty beaches in Epirus, where the intense blue waters merge into the green of the olive trees. A variety of water sports are available at Lichnos such as diving, scuba diving, jet skiing etc. For those who prefer less action and more tranquil activities such as sunbathing, you will feel right at home here! Scattered across the beachfront is a collection of cafes, traditional tavernas, additionally there are a variety of accommodation options available as well as a mini-market. Tranquil nighttime walks along the beach are reccommended due to the fact there is no nightlife at this beach. Sunsets at Lichnos are truly enchanting!
Acheron River
Close to the villages of Kanalaki and Glyki is an outstanding, untouched natural spring better known as the Acheron River. Aside from the natural grace, the springs of Acheron is known worldwide for its mythological contents. In ancient Greek mythology, Acheron was one of the five rivers of the Greek underworld. According to legend, the souls of the dead were transported to the other side of the Acheron river, towards the god of the underground world 'Hades', and the goddess 'Thetis' bathed her son 'Achilles' in this exact river, holding him for heel, granting him with immortality. Today, tourists can enjoy activities such as rafting, canoeing, mountain biking at the Acheron River.
Valtos Beach
Located west of Parga is the well-known Valtos Beach. Reached within a 20-minuet stroll from the town, although it can be reached via car as well as water-taxi boats departing from Parga harbor. Valtos is a 4km stretch of white shingle and crystal waters ideal for snorkeling. The beach is well-organized and features a variety of water sports available at a small fee such as jet-skiing, banana boat rides, pedalos and canoes. Although there is no nightlife options available at Valtos Beach, walking along the seashore in the nightfall or early morning sunrise is highly advised. There are numerous tavernas and cafes which are located in the surrounding area as well as hotels and studios to rent.
The Venetian Castle of Parga
The Ancient Venetian Castle of Parga is situated in a hilltop location overlooking the capital. Originally constructed in the 11th century by the residents of Parga to protect their capital from pirates and the Turks, however it was later partially destroyed by invasions of the such. Later, in the 13th century it was rebuilt by the Venetians to fortify the area. After being destroyed again in 1452, the Venetians again reconstructed the castle and made a strong fortress in the 16th century. The castle of Parga is an important historic monument in the capital - not only is it a peaceful area to go for a walk surrounded by nature and magnificent views, it tells a historic story. A cafeteria is found inside the castle that serves refreshments and light snacks as well as a souvenir shop.