IKARIA > OVERVIEW

Ikaria is located between Samos and Mykonos; it is an elongated island with Atheras (1,037 m) mountain crossing it over. Its southern side has very steep slopes to the south and valleys to the north.

Mythology connects the island with Ikarus, who lost his life falling into the Ikario Sea while escaping with his father from the Minotaur's labyrinth of Knossos. The island has always been well known for its hot springs and its wine, the eminent "pramneio" wine.

The capital and main harbour of Ikaria is Agios Kirykos built amphitheatrically at the foothills of Athera Mountain. The town has maintained many of its traditional elements, particularly in its old districts. There you can find the hot springs of Asklipios that have hydro, while close by there also are Therma hot springs.

Armenistis is a developed tourist centre, famous for its marvellous sandy beaches that reach up to Mesakti and Gialiskari. Very near is also Nas, famous for the astonishing sunsets and the gorge that begins at the back of the magical beach and reaches the place of Christos Rahon. By the river banks there are the ruins of Tavropoulou Artemidos church. Christos Rahon is an alpine village built in a region of dense pinewood. It may be the only village of Ikaria that preserves the old Ikarion traditions. Cafes, tavernas and other commercial shops remaining open till the first streak of dawn, while many others open at midnight.

Evdilos is the second harbour of Ikaria located on the northern coast of the island. It is amphitheatrically built on a height above the harbour and has exceptional traditional colour. Finally, in the south western end of Ikaria, under the steep granite endings of Athera, two picturesque villages are found those of Maganitis and Karkinagri which fascinate the visitor with their colour, their imposing natural landscape and the superb seashore.