Ikaria: Nature, Trails and Culture

Ikaria combines dense forests and hiking trails with archaeological sites, thermal baths and lively festival traditions.

Nature and Hiking Trails in Ikaria

Pine forests, waterfalls, rivers and small lakes form a landscape that can be explored on foot. The Randi Forest, also known as Gaia, lies in the centre of Ikaria on the western side of the Atheras mountain range. It covers about 16 km² and reaches elevations of 900 metres. It is estimated to be over 200 years old; many of its oldest trees are more than 300 years old.

The trails lead to a variety of destinations: one passes through the Halari Gorge to Nas Beach. Other hiking trails in Ikaria connect Nas, Raches, Karavostamo and other villages. From Therma, a route crosses Mount Loumakia to Nealia Beach and passes the ruins of ancient thermal baths. These different destinations offer you a variety of ways to explore Ikaria on foot.

You can reach Nas Beach from the main road via several steps; private vehicles can be parked there. As access conditions may change seasonally, it is best to check them before your visit.

Therma and its thermal baths

Therma is known in Greece and abroad for its thermal baths by the sea. There are three modern thermal baths in the town. As operating conditions may change, check the latest information before visiting. The hiking route from Therma to Nealia also passes the ruins of ancient thermal baths, bringing trail directions and archaeological history together.

Archaeological sites and collections

The Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos presents finds that trace the history of Ikaria and its inhabitants from the Neolithic period (6800–3800 BC) to Roman times. The museum is housed in a former secondary school building, which was later designated a protected monument.

In Kampos, the Archaeological Collection adds to this view of the island’s history. It is housed in a small neoclassical building constructed through the voluntary work of local residents and financial support from the American and Australian Ikariot communities. The collection displays vessels, figurines, reliefs, inscriptions and other finds from the northern part of Ikaria.

The archaeological site of Kampos can also be seen in this historical context: it contains the ruins of Oinoe, the island’s ancient capital, as well as the ruins of a late-antique odeon. In the Bay of Nas, the ancient port of Tavropolion extended from the coast to the deep gorge of the Halaris.

Festivals, wine and local traditions

Throughout the year, all the villages of Ikaria hold festivals for religious and some non-religious holidays. Dates for individual festivals are announced shortly before they take place. Traditional Ikariotikos dancing is performed at village festivals. Ikariotika panygiria also feature raskos, boiled goat meat.

Wine can also be part of your trip planning: in Ikaria, visitors can sample all varieties of Ikarian wine and learn the secrets of its production at four wineries. As you should check in advance whether a winery visit is available, it is best to enquire before travelling.

Planning a trip to the north and south

Ikaria has one port on the northern side of the island and another on the southern side. Evdilos mainly serves the north, while Agios Kirykos mainly serves the south. This can help you organise your travel plans by part of the island. Ferry schedules may change, so check the connections currently available for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Gialiskarion, Ágios Kírykos, Fourni, Armenistís, Magganitis.

Return to the main travel overview: Ikaria.