Ikaria: All that makes it stand out!

Are you planning your holidays or looking for an out-of-the-ordinary summer destination? Year after year, Ikaria increases in popularity and the number of tourists visiting it from all over the world.

There are many reasons why Ikaria has become a focal point for searches and visits. One of them is that it is considered one of the blue zones on our planet, while two others are its traditional festivals (panigyria) and, of course, its wonderful beaches! Some are ideal for surfing, and others are more calm and serene.

Book flight tickets to Ikaria and let's explore it all together here!

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What are the blue zones?

There are five blue zones on our planet, identified as places where residents live the longest and healthiest lives:

• Loma Linda in California
• the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica
• Okinawa in Japan
• the Barbagia region of Sardinia
• and of course, our very own Ikaria!

Blue Zones are found across the world, yet they share some common characteristics:

• An environment that encourages natural physical activity
• A sense of purpose in their citizens' lives – they work to live, not the other way around.
• Widespread adherence to the 80% rule: they eat until they are 80% full, not until they burst.
• A diet based on unprocessed foods: including pulses, vegetables, fish and meat, whole grains, and nuts. In Ikaria, they consume goat's milk, which is rich in potassium and the stress-relieving hormone tryptophan.
• Limited alcohol consumption, mainly red wine, which has been shown to contribute to blood pressure regulation, lower blood sugar, and improved sleep quality.
• The value placed on family – caring for one another into old age.
• Stress reduction. Stress is known to lead to chronic health problems.
• They get enough sleep and do not skip their midday siesta.

The residents of Ikaria, specifically, follow precisely this calm and serene way of life. Even a few days of your holiday on this unique island will give you a first glimpse of what it's like to live without stress and truly enjoy life!

Let's take a look at Ikaria's famous beaches

In Ikaria, we find beaches for all tastes. Whether we want to do water sports like SUP and surfing, or we're looking for calm waters and sunbathing. There are options even for nudists or those who enjoy free camping.

Ikaria's calm beaches

 

Seychelles

Ikaria's most impressive beach, with crystal-clear blue waters, fine white pebbles, and imposing rocks surrounding it. To visit it, you'll either need to climb down the rocks or take a boat from Agios Kirykos or Evdilos. If you are a family with small children, do not risk it and take the boat for safety. Also, it's not organised, so it's a good idea to bring some essentials with you, such as water and snacks.

Armenistis

One of Ikaria's most popular beaches, located next to the eponymous fishing village. It has golden sand, turquoise waters, and amazing tavernas and traditional cafes nearby. From the beach, you can also rent a canoe and explore the coast.

Livadi

A popular beach in northern Ikaria with easy access, golden sand, and crystal-clear waters. It features umbrellas, sunbeds, a canteen, and many restaurants nearby. It's ideal for families and water sports.

 

Kyparissi

A large, beautiful beach with golden sand and crystal-clear blue waters. It has fairly easy access and is ideal for peaceful moments away from the crowds.

 

Prioni

A beautiful small cove with high rocks, sand, and impressive turquoise waters. The beach is accessible via a relatively difficult path and is ideal for those seeking isolation.

Files

A small beach with character, calm waters, and a clean shore, ideal for relaxing and exploring the seabed with a mask and snorkel.

Iero

A sheltered beach with amazing waters near the airport. Ideal for small children due to its gradual shallowing.

Kampos Beach

Kampos is a large sandy beach 40 km from Agios Kirykos. It has clean, shallow waters and is organised with a snack bar and a beach bar. In the village, there are a few hotels and studios, and some traditional restaurants.

Faros

With wonderful waters, it is one of the largest sandy beaches in this part of the island, with many restaurants and beach bars.

Therma

Located next to the thermal springs, it has fine sand and is organised with many restaurants and tavernas. An ideal choice if you want to spend the whole day at the beach.

And the wilder beaches

 

Nas

A beautiful small cove with sand and small pebbles. It is located at the mouth of the Halaris river, and you will be impressed by the dense vegetation behind the beach. The landscape at Nas beach is enchanting, and you can also find the ruins of the Temple of Artemis Tauropolos here. Be aware that when the north wind blows, the waves can be large and require particular caution. Also, the currents at Nas can become very dangerous, so it is imperative to be careful when swimming. On this particular beach, you will always encounter free campers and nudists.

Messakti

A wonderful beach where your decision to go will depend on the wind. It is organised with many beach bars and lifeguards. When it's not windy, you can swim and enjoy peaceful moments. However, when it's windy, it is the ideal beach for surfing, and you can also take lessons there.

For nudists

The beach of Kontos Lakkoma is a nudist beach, as is Nas.

The Panigyria (Festivals)

One thing Greeks enjoy is a good traditional festival, and Ikaria is famous for them more than any other region in our country. So, in the summer, they bring life to the island's villages, depending on when each one celebrates its patron saint.

They can start at any time of day and are organised by local cultural associations. Tables and chairs are set up in the square of each village, while food is usually prepared in a covered area. From there, you buy what you desire. Of course, there is always plenty of wine at the festivals, as well as excellent local beers.

The highlight of every festival is undoubtedly the dancing, which lasts until the early morning hours. People of all ages become one to the sounds of the live orchestra and local artists, with an ecstatic atmosphere. Whether you know the dance steps or not, the experience will certainly be unforgettable!

The most famous festival in Ikaria is on 15th August in the village of Lagkada, which starts in the morning and lasts for almost 24 hours. It's also worth attending the festival in Magganitis, which often coincides with the August full moon, and the scenery is breathtaking.

These are all the things that make the unique Ikaria stand out. Don't miss the opportunity to visit it next summer! The memories will keep you company during the gloomy winter days and brighten up your routine!

And if you're wondering how to book ferry tickets, on Travelo.gr you can compare prices and see all available routes! The same, of course, applies if you want to travel by air with one of the 2-3 flights available to the island from Athens during the summer. Through our website, you can find the cheapest flights and save money!