This Cycladic island lies between Kythnos
and Sifnos, 73 nautical miles
from the port of Piraeus, with
which it is linked by daily ferries. It covers an area of 73sq. km., and is hilly
with rocky terrain, the highest peak being Tourlos (alt. 585 m). In the tiny valleys
tucked amongst its stony slopes, the islanders manage to cultivate a few fruits
trees, early vegetables, citrus friut and vines. Its subsoil is rich in iron ore,
which has been exploited since antiquity. Its coastline, measuring some 82 kilometres,
punctuated with superb sandy coves and bays in some places, steep cliffs and tumbled
rocks in others. The climate of Serifos is healthy, with mild winters and cool
summers thanks to the «meltemi», the prevailing northerly wind which blows through
all the Cyclades. The residents
are chiefly employed in fishing, shipping and, more recently, in the growing tourism
industry.
This extract is cited May 2003 from the Municipality
of Serifos touristic pamphlet.
