Ithaca island

Ithaca is the land of myths and legends, the birthplace of Odysseus and the reason he strived for so many years to return. When you arrive on the island it is certainly possible to believe Homer’s tale about Odysseus’s passion to get home. Although one of the smaller islands in the Ionian, the scenery is mountainous and stunning; on the north road looking across to Kefalonia it is very easy to believe the stories that came from this incredible place and marvel at the light.

Many artists say that there is nowhere like Greece for the light and Ithaca remains a favourite destination for painters alike. The pretty harbours that surround the island, the capital; Vathy, Frikes and picturesque Kioni are the perfect way to while away an evening with their pretty harbour waterfront tavernas and cafeterias. The island is full of white, pebbly beaches with crystal clear waters, the best ways to explore these beautiful and hidden coves is by motorboat (rental available from all three ports) and potter around the island’s perimeter with a picnic, stopping every so often to swim in the calm waters.

Innumerous olive and pine trees cover its slopes, even in Vathy, its capital. The olive trees sometimes reach the seafront, giving the water a wonderful olive-green colour as it mirrors the land above.

Vathy, the islands capital, is the most lively of the villages and has a fairly good selection of shops and restaurants, most of which are around the waterfront and make perfect places to watch the locals parade for their evening “volta” (promenade). Being very sociable and traditional people, the Ithacans, also believe in celebrating every possible festival they can and throughout the summer months each village hold its ‘Paniyiri’ to celebrate the name day of their church. The whole island gathers at these events and it is certainly a good reason to sample the local wine and attempt real Greek dancing!

The island's images will graven on your mind forever, giving you the sense that this island has remained intact through the years.