Ikaria among forests, hiking trails, and history

Dense pine forests, waterfalls, rivers, and small lakes shape Ikaria’s landscape. Those who enjoy exploring the island on foot will find a striking contrast here with its archaeological sites and village traditions. The Randi Forest, also called “Gaia,” makes Ikaria a destination for travellers who want to combine nature and culture.

Forest and trails across the island

The Randi Forest lies in central Ikaria, on the western side of the Atheras Range. It covers about 16 km² and reaches elevations of 900 metres. It is estimated to be more than 200 years old; many of the oldest trees are over 300 years old. These details convey the forest’s long history, but do not indicate any particular route or walking time.

Hiking trails connect Nas, Raches, Karavostamo, and other villages. One route through the Halari Gorge leads to Nas Beach. The beach is accessed from the main road via several steps; private vehicles can be parked there. Those interested in the area’s history can also find Tavropolion in Nas Bay: the ancient harbour stretched from the coast into the deep gorge of the Halaris.

Another described hike leads from Therma to Nealia Beach. It passes over Mount Loumakia and by the ruins of ancient thermal baths. The trails mentioned therefore differ in their destinations and the sights along the way. Which route you include in your trip may depend on whether you would rather explore Nas and the Halari Gorge, or Therma and the ruins.

Archaeological sites and village traditions

Finds in the Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos 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. The Archaeological Collection of Kampos has a distinct focus: vessels, figurines, reliefs, inscriptions, and other finds from northern Ikaria are on display in a small neoclassical building. The building was constructed through the voluntary work of local residents and with financial support from Ikarian communities in the United States and Australia.

The archaeological site of Kampos also offers a glimpse into the island’s past. It includes the ruins of Oinoe, Ikaria’s ancient capital, as well as the ruins of a late antiquity odeon. The traditional Ikariotikos dance is performed at village festivals. Throughout the year, all the villages hold festivals for religious and some non-religious holidays. Raskos, boiled goat meat, is among the dishes served at the Ikarian Panygiria.

Therma, wine, and choosing an area of the island

Therma brings together other interests: the village is known in Greece and abroad for its thermal baths in the sea, and there are also three modern thermal baths. Those interested in wine can sample all varieties of Ikarian wine and learn the secrets of its production at four wineries. These experiences add further possible points of interest to a trip alongside hiking and archaeological sites.

When choosing a holiday rental on Ikaria, the island’s north–south distinction can offer an initial guide. The island has one harbour on the north side and one on the south side. Evdilos mainly serves the north, while Agios Kirykos mainly serves the south.

Other destinations to consider for your trip include Fourni, Ágios Kírykos, Gialiskarion, Armenistís and Magganitis.

For the overview of the wider region: Ikaria.