Sikinos: Episkopi Church, Wine Tasting, and Sunset Tour

Sikinos: Episkopi Church, Wine Tasting, and Sunset Tour
Location: Greece
Duration: 4 hours
Rating: 4.7
Supplier: Sikinos Travel

A Quick Look at What to Expect
If you’re visiting Sikinos, this 4-hour tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s charm. You’ll start by exploring the historic Episkopi Church, a site that recently earned the European Cultural Heritage Award 2022 for its restoration — a testament to its significance. Then, you’ll travel to a high-altitude winery, perched 400 meters above sea level, where you’ll sample local wines made from ancient Cycladic grape varieties, dry-farmed and grown on wild, fertile land. The tour concludes with a spectacular sunset from the winery’s terrace, offering panoramic views of the Aegean that are hard to beat.

What we love most? First, the combination of cultural and sensory experiences—you’re not just visiting a church, but engaging with a site that embodies Sikinos’ history. Second, the breathtaking sunset views that turn a simple wine tasting into a memorable, almost cinematic moment. One consideration? The walking involved around the archaeological site and uneven terrain might be tough for those with limited mobility. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic vistas, and local flavors.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, small-group experiences that blend culture, nature, and relaxation, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

Historic Episkopi Church: An award-winning site with impressive restoration, offering insight into Sikinos’ past.
Breathtaking Views: The sunset from the vineyard terrace makes for a picture-perfect end to your day.
Local Wine Tasting: Sample four authentic Cycladic wines, crafted from ancient grape varieties in a unique high-altitude vineyard.
Authentic Experience: Small groups or private tours ensure a personalized feel and meaningful interaction with guides.
Practical Info: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are essentials; the tour involves some walking and uneven terrain.
Value for Money: Combining cultural, scenic, and culinary highlights, the experience offers good value for its price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Sikinos Tour

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Greece

Visiting Episkopi Church: A Window into Sikinos’ Heritage

Starting your journey in the morning, you’ll be picked up from Alopronia or your designated meeting point. The visit to Episkopi isn’t just another church visit — it’s a chance to see a site that showcases Sikinos’ resilience and dedication to preserving its heritage. Recognized with the Europa Nostra Award, the church’s recent restoration ensures visitors can appreciate its architecture and history without the distraction of decay.

We loved how the guide explained the significance of Episkopi, illustrating why it’s considered one of Greece’s most important archaeological monuments. It’s a quiet, contemplative place, with a sense of peace and reverence. Expect about 10-15 minutes of walking at the site itself, which involves some uneven ground—wear comfortable shoes.

The Scenic Drive and Walk to the Vineyard

After the church visit, you’ll hop into a van for a short 15-minute drive to the vineyard, followed by a 10-minute walk through the rugged landscape that’s typical of Sikinos. The land here is described as “wild and fertile,” and you’ll see the care taken to revive ancient, dry-farmed grape varieties—a nod to traditional viticulture that’s rare in the modern wine world.

This part of the tour gives you a real sense of the island’s natural environment and how the land’s unique terrain influences the wine production. The altitude of 400 meters offers cooler breezes and spectacular views, setting the scene for the tasting session.

The Wine Tasting and Sunset Experience

The highlight for many will be the wine tasting session—a generous sampling of four local wines served with a platter of local delicacies. You’ll learn from the guide about the history and characteristics of Cycladic grapes and how the high-altitude, dry-farmed approach contributes to their distinctive flavor profiles.

The setting makes it even more special: the terrace at the vineyard provides a perfect vantage point for watching the sunset. As the sky turns hues of orange and pink, you’ll sip your wine and soak in the views of the Aegean, a moment that’s often described as “unforgettable” and “breathtaking” by past participants.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practicalities

The entire experience is designed to be relaxed yet enriching. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the transportation included takes the hassle out of navigating the island. The tour lasts around 3 hours of tasting and sunset, plus transportation, totaling 4 hours.

Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and your camera—you’ll want to capture the sunset and scenic landscapes. The terrain is uneven, so those with mobility issues may find the walk around the archaeological site challenging. Also, since the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, hydration and sun protection are advisable.

Keen to taste more of Greece? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re looking for an experience that combines cultural insight, beautiful scenery, and local flavors, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate history and architecture, as well as those who enjoy local wines and scenic vistas. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, authentic taste of Sikinos that feels personal rather than touristy.

It’s a great fit for photographers, history buffs, wine lovers, and anyone wanting a peaceful, memorable evening on a less crowded Greek island.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Certainly, this tour offers a balanced blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. The visit to Episkopi provides a tangible connection to Sikinos’ past, while the wine tasting and sunset turn the day into a sensory celebration. The award-winning restoration of the church underscores the care and respect Sikinos shows for its heritage, making it a meaningful visit.

The high-altitude vineyard and the chance to try ancient grape varieties craft an authentic taste of the island’s agricultural traditions. Plus, the spectacular sunset elevates the experience beyond a simple tour, offering a picture-perfect ending.

However, keep in mind the walking involved and the terrain’s unevenness if mobility is a concern. If you’re happy to walk, enjoy scenic views, and love engaging with local traditions, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences in a stunning setting.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, transportation to and from the meeting point (the port) is included, making logistics simple.

How long does the entire experience last? The tour runs for approximately 4 hours, with about 3 hours dedicated to the main activities including the wine tasting and sunset.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to some uneven terrain, along with a sun hat and water to stay hydrated.

Can I expect to see a sunset? Absolutely. The tour specifically highlights witnessing a spectacular Aegean sunset from the vineyard’s terrace.

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour is best suited for adults and older children comfortable with walking and outdoor environments; it’s not specifically designed for young children.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available? The description mentions a platter with local delicacies, but specific dietary accommodations aren’t specified. It’s best to ask ahead if you have particular needs.

What is the size of the group? Small group or private options are available, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is there free cancellation? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility for your travel plans.

Can I book this tour last-minute? Availability depends on demand, so checking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

In sum, if you’re after a well-rounded glimpse into Sikinos’ heritage, combined with breathtaking views and local wine, this tour offers a genuine slice of island life. It marries history, nature, and flavor into a package that’s not just enjoyable but truly enriching.