Visiting Manakis Vineyard In Sikinos!
We flew into Santorini, and then took the 7am ferry the next morning from Thira. The first stop was the island of Ios . The next stop 45 minutes later was the island of Sikinos, then we disembarked at Arpronia (the only harbour) on Sikinos. The island has just two shops, two tavernas and a petrol station. We then drove up to the mountains settlement of Kastro and Horion, an ancient settlement of tiny white washed houses. The views were amazing, you could see the Cyclades for miles around! You can see Ios, Santorini, Anafi, Feolegandros, Serifos, Sifnos, Despitiki, Paros and Naxos. As we continued to climb up the mountain road, we didn't think the views could get any better! We then arrived at Manakis Winery and Vineyard. The vineyard is planted in the ancient terraces that have been there for thousands of years. The views really are spectacular. We helped George Manalia the ex Mayor of Sikinos finish the harvest and the pressing. I'm not too sure of the varieties - the red had been done but we were in time to help the final harvesting and pressing of the white. Such amazing views, this tiny and uncommercial island is how Greece was in the 1970's, well worth an island hopping visit!