The Epirus region on the west coast of Greece is one of Europe's prime areas of outstanding natural beauty, with mountains, lakes, gorges, forests, wonderfully preserved stone villages and flora and fauna unique to the region.

The inland lakeside town of Ioannina is easily accessible from here, as are the mountain villages of Zagoria and the Vikos Gorge, arguably the most spectacular in Europe.

This whole region was held by the Turks until 1913 a nd there is much Ottoman influence to be seen in the towns and villages. Sivota, set within a fjord-like landscape of hills, covered by pine, cypress and olive trees is an excellent base for exploring this interesting and picturesque region. The twisting coastline of rocky coves, sandy bays and stretches of white coarse-sand beaches with off-shore heavily wooded islands create such a maze of land and water that one never knows whether one is still on the mainland or an island.

This area of remarkable natural beauty is an ideal location for hiring a small boat and exploring the many islands, sheltered inlets, coves and beaches. Water taxis are also available from the attractive harbour to whisk you away to the less accessible beaches.

The village is about a ninety minute drive from Preveza airport along a picturesque road that hugs the coastline.

The harbour is very pretty, with an array of cafes, tavernas, restaurants and small shops. There is often a sailing flotilla moored at the quay, as from Sivota, the islands of Paxos and Corfu and the pretty mainland town of Parga are easily accessible both by sailing flotilla and excursion.

The main village is about a 10 minute walk back from the harbour where there are provision stores, more tavernas and the village church.

Though the village has a limited bus service and a handful of taxis, it is best to hire a car in order to appreciate what this picturesque area has to offer.