Discover Ikaria: Nature, History and Island Traditions

On Ikaria, striking natural landscapes meet a layered island history. At its heart lies the Randi Forest, also known as Gaia; archaeological sites range from the ruins of the ancient capital of Oinoe to Drakano Tower at the eastern end. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Ikaria, you can first consider whether nature, hiking, historic sites or local festivals should shape your stay.

Forests, wetlands and protected areas

The Randi Forest lies in the centre of Ikaria, west of the Atheras range, and covers about 16 km². Gaia is another name for the forest area. Ikaria’s protected areas are part of the Natura 2000 network. At the mouth of the Halaris lies a natural coastal wetland covering 19.9 acres. Ikaria is also designated an Important Bird Area under the international code GR143-Ikaria Island. The forest, river mouth and protected-area designation represent different aspects of the island’s nature.

Hiking and activities on the island

A hiking trail leads through the Halari Gorge. Another trail runs from Therma to the Loumakia thermal spring, which is still in use. Ikaria’s thermal springs are mainly located on the southeast and northeast coasts. This information provides an overview of the different places where hiking trails and thermal springs can be found.

Cycling is possible all over the island, especially mountain biking. Ikaria is also suitable for surfing. If you are planning your trip around activities, you can weigh up hiking trails at specific locations alongside cycling or surfing as other island activities.

Archaeological sites and architectural history

The Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos is housed in a neoclassical building that formerly served as the local secondary school and was later designated a protected monument. The museum displays finds relating to the history of Ikaria and its inhabitants from the Neolithic period (6800–3800 BC) to Roman times.

The ruins of the ancient spa town of Thermae lie east of the present-day village of Therma. The ruins of Oinoe, the island’s ancient capital, are located in the present-day area of Kampos. Koskina Castle lies near the village of Kossoikia, a few kilometres outside Evdilos and roughly in the middle of Ikaria. At the eastern end of the island, in the area of Faros (Fanari), stands the ancient Tower of Drakano. These sites offer different geographical points of reference for a stay focused on Ikaria’s history.

The chapel of Theoskepasti is also distinguished by its unusual setting: it is located near Pigi, close to Kampos, in a cave covered overhead by a rock. Along with the museum, ruins, castle and tower, it reveals another side of the island’s cultural heritage.

Festivals, wine and local specialties

Ikaria’s villages hold festivals throughout the year for religious and some non-religious holidays. Dates may vary; if you would like to experience a particular festival, check the dates for your trip.

Visitors can taste Ikaria wines and learn more about how they are made at four wineries. As availability should be checked before visiting, it is best to enquire in advance. Another local specialty is kolokasi (Colocasia esculenta), a rare plant in Greece that is found only on Ikaria.

Getting there and getting oriented

Ikaria Airport is at the eastern end of the island near Faros, about 12 kilometres from the island capital, Agios Kirykos. Ikaria has two main ports: one on the north coast and one on the south coast. When planning your trip, it is advisable to check current flight times, as schedules can change.

This will help you decide on a suitable focus for your stay on Ikaria before looking for a hotel.

Discover more destinations: Armenistís, Fourni, Gialiskarion, Ágios Kírykos, Ikaria, Magganitis, Lesbos and Chios.

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