On Ikaria, you can combine hiking with the island’s history: trails lead through the Halari Gorge to Nas Beach, while others pass the ruins of ancient thermal baths. Dense pine forests, waterfalls, rivers and small lakes offer further destinations to explore on foot. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether nature, archaeological sites, or festivals and local products should be the focus.
Hiking Trails and Landscapes
Hiking trails connect Nas, Raches, Karavostamo and other villages on Ikaria. The trail through the Halari Gorge leads to Nas Beach. Another route begins in Therma and passes over Mount Loumakia to Nealia Beach; along the way, it goes past the ruins of ancient thermal baths. The Halari route therefore leads from a gorge to a beach, while the route over Loumakia also passes historical remains.
The Randi Forest, also known as Gaia, lies in central Ikaria on the western side of the Atheras Range. It covers about 16 km² and reaches elevations of 900 metres. Its age is estimated at more than 200 years; many of the oldest trees are over 300 years old. Its size, elevation and age offer different insights into this forest. Those interested in landscapes will find both an extensive forest landscape and trails connecting gorges, villages and beaches on Ikaria.
Therma and Nas Beach
Therma has three modern thermal baths. As the facilities’ operating status may change, check whether they are currently open before visiting. The hiking trail from Therma to Nealia passes the ruins of ancient thermal baths; these historical remains are a different aspect of the area from its modern facilities.
Access to Nas Beach is from the main road via several steps. Private vehicles can be parked by the road. As access conditions may change seasonally, check the current situation before your visit.
Museums and Ancient Sites
The Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos presents finds tracing 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. The collection thus spans a broad historical period; the building itself bears witness to its former use as a school.
The Archaeological Collection of Kampos is housed in a small neoclassical building. It was built through the voluntary work of local residents and financial support from the American and Australian communities of Ikarians. The collection displays vessels, figurines, reliefs, inscriptions and other finds from the northern part of Ikaria.
The archaeological site of Kampos includes the ruins of Oinoe, the island’s ancient capital, as well as a late-antique odeon. Tavropolion, an ancient port, was located at Nas Bay and extended from the coast to the deep gorge of the Halaris. Together, these sites offer different historical themes: the former capital, an odeon and a port connected to the coastal landscape.
Festivals, Wine and Local Cuisine
Throughout the year, Ikaria’s villages hold festivals for religious and some non-religious holidays. Dates for individual festivals are announced shortly before they take place, so check them if you want to plan your trip around a particular festival. Traditional Ikariotikos dancing takes place at village festivals. Ikarian panygiria also feature Raskos, boiled goat meat.
On Ikaria, visitors can taste all varieties of Ikarian wine and learn the secrets of its production at four wineries. Check current visiting options before your visit. Panygiria provide the setting for Raskos and Ikariotikos, while the wineries focus on wine and its production.
Ports and Finding Accommodation
Ikaria has one port on the north side of the island and another on the south side. Evdilos mainly serves the north, while Agios Kirykos mainly serves the south. As ferry schedules may change, check the timetable before your trip. When looking for a holiday apartment, it helps to consider your arrival point and planned activities together: first decide whether hiking trails, museums, festivals or wineries will shape your trip, then compare accommodation options according to your own plans.
Discover more destinations: Armenistís, Magganitis, Ágios Kírykos, Gialiskarion, Fourni
Go to the main travel overview: Ikaria.
