Ikaria is a little-known Greek island located in the Aegean Sea. And once you discover this wonderful place, you will definitely come back here! The island is famous above all for the longevity of its inhabitants – every third person reaches the age of 90. It is very interesting!
The name of the island comes from the myth of Daedalus I Icarus. Ikaria is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Seychelles beach. You can also visit archaeological museums, such as in Kampos. Agios Kirykos hosts the international Ikaros chess tournament every July.
Location
Ikaria is a Greek island located in the northern part of the Aegean Sea, between the islands of Mykonos and Samos.
Seychelles Beach
This fascinatingly beautiful beach of stones is located in a picturesque and intimate bay. Around there are interesting rock formations, and the color of the crystal clear water is unmatched.
The small “private” beach in the bay adjacent to the main beach has a large cave. The Seychelles beach is located about 25 kilometers west of Agios Kirikos. you can see here on foot or also take a water taxi from the fishing port of Mangganitis. There we will also find a Cafe/bar.
Theoktistis Monastery
Theoktistis monastery is situated in the north part of Ikaria, near the village of Pigi. According to an old sign on the church, the monastery had been established in October 1688, but it’s considered to be founded before that. The whole church is decorated with frescoes with faces and figures of Saints of Old and New Testament, and also with the donors of frescoes.
Nas Beach
This beach is located on the northern shore of the island. It is a small beach near the village of Armenistis, covered with sand and small pebbles. Nas, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, is rightly one of the most popular. But to reach the beach, you have to go down a few steps.
A descent that will be rewarded by the beauty you will see. Gyros toni Rahon, one of the most picturesque routes in Ikaria, ends at Nas beach. However, visitors should be careful, you have to watch out for the sea currents.
Agios Kirykos
Agios Kirikos is located on the southeastern coast of the island and is the island’s capital and main port. Most of the public services on the island are located here. Agios Kirikos, with its old two-story captains’ residences, flower-filled districts, narrow cobbled paths, endless stone steps, a central square surrounded by shops and the constant traffic of people, combines the picturesqueness of Aegean architecture with the bustle of a modern city.
A popular attraction in the city is the historic church of Agios Spyridon, the building which houses the Parliament, the City Hall and the Archaeological Museum.
Villages
Be sure to visit the village of Evdilos, with its port and beautiful houses and cobbled streets. This is a traditional village that was once the capital of the island. Also visit Gialiskari, a famous seaside village, with the nearby sandy beach of Messakti, as well as the fishing village of Avlaki. Karkinagri is a beautiful fishing village located in an area with impressive large granite stones. Also see the lighthouse at Cape Papas. Christos Rachon is the main village of the mountainous area of Raches, located on a lush green hillside.
