Serifos is the third largest island of the Western Cyclades. It lies between Kithnos and Sifnos and is about 7.5 nautical miles from each. It has a round shape, is 75 sq. km in area, and is 73 nautical miles from Piraeus, that is, a trip of 4 hours by boat. It is a mountainous island with Tourlos (585 metres) as its highest peak. It has very little greenery on the plains and the slopes of mountains like the rest of the Cyclades. The climate is dry and very healthy with cool summers. The 1,200 inhabitants of the island are mainly farmers and stock-breeders. They grow citrus trees, grapes, and early garden produce. Only a few of them are engaged in the tourist trade, which has developed considerably in recent years. The locals lead very simple lives. They are hospitable, quiet people who try to satisfy the needs of visitors to their island.