Sagiada, Thesprotia: Fishing Village, Beaches and Authentic Landscapes Near the Border
At the northwestern tip of Thesprotia, close to the border with Albania, lies Sagiada, an authentic seaside settlement with a strong maritime and fishing tradition. Approximately 20 kilometers from Igoumenitsa, Sagiada offers a different experience for those who want to discover a quieter and more authentic side of Thesprotia.
With its small harbor, Skaloma, fish tavernas, nearby beaches and historic Old Sagiada, the area is ideal for a beautiful day trip from Igoumenitsa, as well as for exploring the wider area around the Kalamas River.
Sagiada and Its Privileged Location in Thesprotia
Sagiada is located in the northwestern part of Thesprotia, very close to the Greek-Albanian border. Its location offers distinctive views of the Ionian Sea, while on a clear day, Corfu can be seen across the water.
Its proximity to Igoumenitsa, as well as to Filiates, makes Sagiada an easily accessible destination for a day trip. The route passes through characteristic landscapes of Thesprotia and offers the opportunity to discover a destination that remains away from the intense tourist character of other seaside areas.
The Skaloma and Sagiada’s Fishing Tradition
On the seaside side of the settlement lies Skaloma, the small harbor of Sagiada. The area is known among those who travel by pleasure boat in the waters of the Ionian Sea, while fishing has traditionally been an important part of the area’s life and economy.
Maritime activity is strong throughout the area all the way to the Greek-Albanian border, where several aquaculture facilities operate.
Sagiada’s close relationship with the sea is one of the main reasons it has become known as a traditional fishing village in Thesprotia.
Fish Taverns and Fresh Seafood
If there is one reason why many visitors choose Sagiada, it is undoubtedly its gastronomy.
The area’s fish taverns serve fresh fish and seafood, making the most of the wealth of the Ionian Sea and the region’s strong fishing tradition.
For those who love fish, seafood and simple, authentic Greek cuisine, a stop in Sagiada can be an ideal choice for lunch by the sea.
Here, the experience is not based on large tourist crowds, but on the atmosphere of a genuine seaside village in Thesprotia.
Sagiada as a Fishing Destination
The area is also known among fishing enthusiasts. The waters around Sagiada are considered interesting spots for both recreational and professional fishermen, with options for fishing both from the shore and by boat.
The strong presence of fishing is an integral part of the settlement’s identity and largely explains the authentic character it has preserved to this day.
The History of Sagiada
The area has a significant historical presence. During the period of the Despotate of Epirus, there was a settlement in the wider area of present-day Sagiada that also had fortifications.
In the early 15th century, around 1402, the fortress was captured by the Venetians with the assistance of the Corfiots, reflecting the strategic importance of the area and its longstanding connection with the Ionian Sea.
Old Sagiada: A Journey into the Past
One of the most interesting places in the area is Old Sagiada.
The old settlement was abandoned by its inhabitants during World War II. Today, the remains of the old village are still visible and offer visitors a different kind of experience.
Walking among the old cobblestone paths, churches and traditional buildings, visitors can gain a sense of the history and everyday life of a settlement that was once full of life.
Time has left its mark on the old houses, but this natural weathering is precisely what creates a distinctive atmosphere and makes a visit to Old Sagiada a special experience.
Beaches Near Sagiada
The wider area also offers options for those who want to combine their visit with some time by the sea.
Among the well-known beaches in the area are Keramidi and Strovili, located a short distance from Sagiada.
Keramidi Beach
Keramidi is one of the options for those looking for a beach near Sagiada. Access is relatively easy, and the area is ideal for a short stop, particularly during the summer months.
Strovili
In the Strovili area, visitors can combine natural beauty with historical interest, as the remains of the abandoned castle can be seen at the top of the mountain of the same name.
Exploring the area offers a different perspective of northwestern Thesprotia, away from the more crowded tourist destinations.
From Sagiada to Kestrini, Asprokklisi and Smerto
A trip to Sagiada can easily be combined with a route through the inland areas of Thesprotia.
Along the road between Igoumenitsa and Sagiada, it is worth exploring the villages of Kestrini, Asprokklisi and Smerto.
The route passes through the Kestrini plain and by the Kalamas River dam, a characteristic landmark of the area’s landscape.
For travelers who enjoy more natural and less-explored routes, the wider Kalamas area can offer beautiful scenery and peaceful stops away from the crowds.
The Old Mouth of the Kalamas and Palia Bouka
West of Kestrini lie the old mouth of the Kalamas River. The area is of particular natural interest and leads to more secluded parts of the Thesprotian coastline.
In some sections, access can be difficult, so extra care and a suitable vehicle are required.
On the lower side of the river mouth lies a beautiful sandy beach known to locals as “Palia Bouka of the Kalamas.” It is a spot that can offer a very different experience for those looking for quieter and more secluded beaches.
Sagiada: A Different Day Trip from Igoumenitsa
The short distance from Igoumenitsa makes Sagiada an ideal choice for a day trip.
A complete itinerary can include:
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a walk around Skaloma and the seaside settlement
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lunch at a fish taverna
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a visit to Old Sagiada
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a stop at the nearby beaches
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exploring the Kalamas area
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and returning to Igoumenitsa
In this way, visitors can discover not only Sagiada but also a large part of northwestern Thesprotia.
Staying in Igoumenitsa – Angelika Pallas Hotel
For those who want to explore Sagiada while also using Igoumenitsa as their base, Angelika Pallas Hotel is particularly conveniently located, close to the New Port of the city.
Igoumenitsa is an ideal starting point for day trips to Sagiada, Filiates, Plataria, Syvota and other destinations throughout Thesprotia.
In this way, you can combine your stay in the city with daily excursions to the seaside and natural attractions of the area.
Discover Sagiada and Northwestern Thesprotia
Sagiada is a destination worth discovering if you are looking for a more authentic side of Thesprotia.
The small harbor, fishing tradition, fish taverns, Old Sagiada, nearby beaches and the natural landscape around the Kalamas create a destination that is different from the better-known tourist resorts of the Ionian Sea.
From Igoumenitsa to Sagiada and from the Kalamas to the Greek-Albanian border, northwestern Thesprotia is filled with scenery, history and authentic experiences waiting to be discovered.
