Need a Hideaway?
If you’re looking for a relaxing Greek destination away from the big resorts and heaving crowds, you might be pleasantly surprised with Parga. Before I went, not one person I spoke to had heard of Parga …which made me think I might have discovered a perfect retreat, and I wasn’t wrong.
Parga woos with it’s winding cobbled hills and lanes, dotted with the odd cat and kitten laying idly in the sun against a back drop of mosaic tiled walls and paving slabs.
On every turn the eye feasts on vibrant flowers that hang vine-like here and there, along with wooden shutters in every colour you can imagine. As you walk around, the locals peer over their washing to see who’s passing by, and mopeds whizz by, mounted with the young and old alike.
Parga sits within the North Western region of Preveza in Epirus.
Charm and character at every turn
Valtos Beach
Beach coves framed by lush green mountainous hills, threaded with olive and lemon trees.
Pebbles
Seriously, if you need to tone your legs and bum, go to Parga. The pebbles on Valtos beach will give you an intense work out along with the walk to and from Parga town. By the time you get home everything will be super tight!
I bought a few pebbles home for ‘decorative’ purposes – bottom of a vase type thing maybe.
Candy coloured houses
Fresh grape vine under the window
Vibrant and colourful is the way…
Go Walk About
Cobbled alleys and winding lanes lead you upwards from Valtos beach and down into the main town so give the stiletto heels a miss!
This drink had lots of big pieces of aloe vera in it.
So many pretty places to eat
The Castle of Parga
Cats
It’s definitely a cat haven in Parga, cats rule here and you will likely come across many with their litter of kittens when you’re out and about the main streets and quieter lanes.
Warning: Mopeds
Mopeds and motorcycles seemed to be the main mode of transpor, especially around the quieter streets. The elderly and young will zoom past you as you venture out and about.
Parga Town
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- Tea is usually served with fresh honey rather than sugar
Good idea!
Pretty slippers
T shirts!!!
You won’t be short of shops, the town has plenty and the hill leading down to the town is speckled with shops so the walk into town will probably be long and souvenir filled!
A nice Greek hand painted Canvas, my favourite type of souvenir!
More art work, such lovely colours – shoppers will not be disappointed in Parga.
There are so many beautiful dishes, plates and pottery in Parga – I settled for these little hand made dishes.
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- I managed to come home with three more fridge magnets lol! It’s a must.
Jigsaw fridge magnet
I also picked up these pretty coasters for a bargain price – very Mediterranean!!
A much needed lunch after all that shopping…
I went for the green one!
Plant pots, cooking pot, whatever as long as it’s a pot!
The walk back up the hill will help you burn off that big greek lunch you just had!
Freshly squeezed orange, no doubt with oranges straight from the local trees.
Lamb with spaghetti in oven. Honestly, the picture doesn’t even convey just how much food was on my plate – easily enough for two people!
Parga town beach
Plenty of places to stop, grab a bite and a drink, people watch etc
Parga town
Plenty of Rustic Charm
Grape vines, lemon and olive trees all around
Cheaper than ASDA!!
Big Fat Greek Wedding
Sadly I didn’t get to witness one, a local guide explained that small civil ceremonies are becoming a more popular choice to keep costs down. Nevertheless, the Greeks don’t really accept these a ‘proper’ weddings, so many make up for it by having a big celebration when they have their first child.
The smashing of plates is also proving a little costly these days so good old flower petals often suffice – just like confetti.
Apparently is customary for locals to hang lots of flowers on the outside of their homes when a wedding is taking place, and a traditional Greek wedding can easily see 400 or more guests, including the whole village.
Natural Beauty
Untouched by mass tourism, Parga is still a very traditional looking town for locals and tourists alike.
If you choose to get out and about on trips or drives you will really get to see the fabulous picturesque coastlines and mountainous backdrops of Parga.
The Walk to town from Valtos Beach
It’s not as bad as some people make out. Just pace yourself and take time to enjoy the views and characterful surroundings along the way.
That said, the hills up and down to Parga town are definitely quite something – you will literally feel your bum disappearing as you make the climb, which is absolutely what’s needed after all the huge servings of Greek food you get, anywhere you happen to order.
The views are picture perfect, so the walk is best done in a leisurely way. Enjoy the views, stop to admire the homes, flowers, beautiful tiles and paving, colourful doors and window shutters.
Take a drink and don’t forget your camera.
This walk is the best lower body work out in the area (there’s no gym at the Valtos Beach Hotel – there’s no need for one), along with the walk along Valtos beach shore, those pebbles and deep sand really make your legs work.
Walk up the hill in the direction of the castle ruins – past the Valtos Beach Hotel
It does get very steep, and it isn’t very smooth, the pathway is winding so keep following it round.
The downward part of the walk into town.
Who remembers ghetto blasters…
Stunning paving
View of Parga town from outside the castle
The late October heat was a real treat for this trip as it is normally much wetter and cooler for the time of year – it didn’t rain once the entire week. Lucky gamble payed off this time!
Unsolved Mystery
To this day, I still haven’t figured out exactly what this sign is getting at – does it mean general rubbish that should go in the bin anyway? That looks like a milk carton in the picture. Or, is it referring to loo roll, as it is a type of paper?
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Anonymous
Hey fellow travelers,
Let me take you on a virtual journey to my dream destination: Parga, Greece. Trust me, once you get a glimpse of this enchanting place, you’ll understand why it’s at the top of my travel bucket list.
The Beauty of Parga: Nestled on the Ionian coast, Parga is like a scene straight out of a postcard. Imagine colorful houses cascading down lush green hills, all leading to the sparkling blue sea. The views here are nothing short of breathtaking, with the Venetian Castle standing guard over the town, offering panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.
Must-See Attractions: Parga is a treasure trove of historical sites and natural wonders. The Venetian Castle is a must-visit, not just for its history but for the stunning views it offers. Then there’s the beautiful old town with its narrow, winding streets, filled with charming shops and cafés. And don’t miss out on the ancient ruins of the Necromanteion of Acheron, a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Beaches, Glorious Beaches: When it comes to beaches, Parga has some of the best. Valtos Beach is a long stretch of golden sand, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. But my personal favorite is Lichnos Beach. It’s a bit more secluded, with crystal-clear waters and a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing. You can snorkel, swim, or just lay back and soak up the sun.
Delectable Greek Cuisine: No trip to Greece would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and Parga is no exception. The food here is a gastronomic delight. From fresh seafood to traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, your taste buds are in for a treat. Make sure to try the local olive oil and wines—they’re simply divine.
Warm and Welcoming People: One of the best things about Parga is its people. The locals are incredibly friendly and hospitable, always ready to share a smile and a story. You’ll feel like you’re part of the family in no time.
Where to Stay: Spiros Studios: If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay, I highly recommend Spiros Studios. This charming accommodation is close to Lichnos Beach and offers cozy rooms with stunning sea views. The hosts are warm and welcoming, ensuring you have a comfortable and memorable stay.
So there you have it, folks. Parga, with its stunning beauty, rich history, glorious beaches, delicious food, and warm people, is truly a dream destination. Pack your bags and get ready to discover this hidden gem in Greece.
Happy travels,
Alex
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Ingrid
Parga town is wonderful !!! Your pictures are fantastic! We visit with my daughter island of Corfu in this summer and plan to visit the town of Parga. So much to watch and take pictures !!! Jesss, I’m a photographer and enjoy it 🙂 Here are 8 posts on my blog about visiting Corfu Island and Greece last summer. http://www.kaldkriips.ee/?p=7713
Cherryl
Thank you Ingrid, glad you liked the pictures – it was very quiet when I visited Parga so I really got to enjoy it – such a lovely place 🔆Corfu looks and sounds lovely….you should add a ‘like’ button to your blogs hun x
justnatonya
Ok Greece has always been my dream destination but I never heard of Praga! I can add this city on the list of places to visit in Greece ❤️ BTW, your photos are stunning, you really captured the essence of their lifestyle 😁
Natonya | https//www.justnatonya.wordpress.com
Cherryl
Thank you so much…glad I’ve helped to inspire another destination on your bucket list. 🤗
Helen Pollard
Gorgeous photos! And so sunny!!
Cherryl
Thanks – the weather was a lucky treat for the end of October!
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DG MARYOGA
Such a fantastic post!Stunning photos perfectly showcased,you did capture the real spirit of the this quaint town! charm
Cherryl
Thank you so much , I think some people think I take too many pictures but I like to take myself back there when I look at them! 😊
DG MARYOGA
I do the same,I want to imprison even the smallest detail from each place I go.I’ve been to Parga many times,but I so much liked it through your lens 🙂 Bravo!
Cherryl
I’m glad you enjoyed the pictures – and thank you for your kind feedback 😘
Calysta Hannah
Beautiful pictures 💖
Cherryl
Thank you, belatedly, Parga is very photogenic 😊
vasiatheghost
Americans have very different toilets from us. They do not have bins for toilet papers and other rubish so they throw everything(!) in toilet,so sometimes they did that into our toilets…but our toilents are not made for it….
Cherryl
Ahh, ok – so normal toilet tissue/roll is ok, thank goodness. It’s also really bad for the environment/sea flushing rubbish down the loo too. Thanks for this x