Ikaria is one of the largest islands of the eastern Aegean Sea. Τhere are many assumptions about the name of the island, but the prevailing opinion is that it comes from Asia Minor. Ιn ancient times sailors made sacrifices on the island in honor of Artemis who is the patroness of seafarers. Τoday it is one of the leading alternative destinations in Greece. Ikaria has become famous all over the world for the longevity of its inhabitants and their diet, so life seems to slow down on the island, offering a break from your daily routine. Ikaria is particularly famous for one thing: the longevity of the islanders!, the inhabitants live for many many years thanks to the nutritious local diet, walking, stress-free everyday life, and optimism. You can have a taste of all these qualities, along with the excellent local wine, at the regular traditional village feasts that are organized every summer.

Beaches it has, a nudist, somewhat hippie beach, (about 5km from Armenistis, also a popular surfing beach and one of the busiest areas for accommodations with a few lovely, sea-facing hotels), is well known for the remains of the Sanctuary of Artemis, that sit on its sands, and an emerald river surrounded by beautiful greenery that leads toward the sea. Above the beach are several tavernas offering delicious food and lovely sea and sunset views. Stop at either Anna’s taverna or Thea’s taverna to try mouthwatering homemade style dishes made using organic produce from their own vegetable gardens, free range goat meat and fresh fish. Go to Artemis Studios for a fresh fruit juice cocktail or a beer.

Seychelles, around 25km southwest of Agios Kirikos, is an idyllic white sand/white pebble cove with crystal azure waters, with dramatic limestone cliffs on either side. You’ll need to walk around 15 minutes from the road where you park your car to get there, and bring water and snacks with you. Avoid it in August as it gets very busy.

If you want wilderness, beauty and privacy, head to Prioni beach near Agios Kyrikos, a small pebble cove surrounded by high cliffs, with clean, cobalt blue waters. Getting here also requires a hearty walk, taking a path that’s on the road from Agios Kyrikos to Therma, after the Analipsis church.

Messakti is another good choice, easier to reach but more crowded in July and August. With two rivers intersecting it, there are cool, freshwater currents flowing into the sea. There are several cafes and tavernas nearby as well as a beach bar and sun loungers for rent.

On the eastern end of the island is Faros, which has drawn quite a few foreign residents over the years and has some great fish tavernas along its wide, long stretch of coast.

Walk around Akamatra village, south of Evdilos, to sit under the 500 year-old oak tree, once used as a gallows. In the picturesque Arethousa village go see the much-photographed Theokepasti chapel, which has been carved inside a giant rock. Visit Avlaki fishing village just before sunset for a romantic walk and glow-time dining on fresh seafood. In Agios Kyrikos don’t miss out on the Archaeological Museum and the Folklore museum – both hosting fascinating exhibits that trace back through Ikaria’s rich history.

Explore Raches for its buzzy central square to while away hours playing backgammon and sipping wine or having a tasty meal at one of its meze places. In Magganitis don’t miss out on the somewhat loopy Kafepandopoleio, a coffee-shop / grocery store that gets full to the brim with locals and visitors alike all bunching up to drink and enjoy live music. Also in Magganitis, Bouboukakia has a similar concept but a more homey style.

Where to head next?

Keep exploring the best of Greece! After Ikaria, the top destinations to visit are Patmos, Samos, and Syros.