Ikaria

Named after Icarus – famous for flying too close to the sun and plunged into the sea here, the island of Ikaria is approximately 40kms long but never more than 8km wide.  The highest peaks on the island soar to over 1000m high which means some tortuous roads combined with dizzying drops – especially when crossing from the main port of Aghios Kirikos on the south coast to the northern villages.

Still oft-neglected by Athens as a result of its physical remoteness Ikaria remains today a beautiful and unusual island – mountains, forests and beaches all combine with the innumerable legends around the island to make a traditional Aegean island with an overwhelming feeling of “getting away from it all”.  For years the island was poorly served by ferries – but this has improved recently and the island now also has a small airport capable of handling domestic flights.

One of the most attractive villages on the island is Armentsis – where there are just the right number of tavernas, cafes and small shops to give variety.  Above the fantastic sandy cove of Nas around 3km west of Armentisis there are additional restaurants and the remains of the Temple of Artemis.  Although Armentsis does have a small beach, most beach lovers head for the long Livadi ofr Messakti beaches just outside of the village.  Visitors should be aware that there are some very strong off-shore currents around Ikaria and it may not always be safe to swim.

The mountainsides inland from Armentis are covered with forests and offer a natural paradise of native birds, tumbling mountain streams and the sweet smell of the pine trees.  Lakes, monasteries and villages are hidden away in the area and there are some fantastic walks.  Ikaria has little in the way of publc transport – so for those who wish to explore this intriguing island car hire is recommened (4WD jeeps are available).  Although Armentsis is the mote “developed” of the villages for visitors, there is no bank or ATM in the village – the closest is 30km distant in Aghios Kirikos – so visitors are advised to have a plentiful supply of Euros. 
 
Ikaria is reached by a domestic flight from Athens or by boat from surrounding islands. This makes Ikaria a perfect island to combine with a city break in Athens.