Ikaria. Armenistis. Evdilos. Nas. Agios Kirikos.

Ikaria

Ikaria is a wonderful island with magnificent scenery, it has a great deal of Greek everyday life, and it is located just west of Samos. For many years I've believed that Ikaria would be a new Naxos, but for some reasons, the streams of tourists have stayed away. Ikaria is an island that affects you and it is with a heavy heart you'll go from there. The main attraction is the splendid nature; if you like to hike you have come to the right Island. But Ikaria has much more to offer than just beautiful nature: here are several interesting villages, totally unaffected by tourism and some of the beaches are of excellent quality.

GETTING HERE
The easiest way is to fly to Samos and continue with boat to Agios Kirikos or Evdilos, which are the two ports of Ikaria. If you are going to stay in Armenistis it's wisest to get off in Evdilos. From Agios Kirikos it's far to Armenistis and it may take up to an hour by taxi.

GETTING AROUND
The best way to discover Ikaria is by car or, if you're not going so far, by moped. Car and moped hire services are to be found in Agios Kirikos and Armenistis, among other places.

Agios Kirikos.

Armenistis.

VILLAGES
Here are several villages that are well worth seeing, many are unaffected by tourism. The two major villages are Agios Kirikos and Evdilos, the most popular tourist resort is Armenistis. In my opinion the finest village is Christos Raches north of Armenistis. In Agios Kirikos, the main village and the administrative centre, there is a population of around 3000 people. Most of the life circles around the lively port. Here are several banks, ATM's, tavernas, kafenións, Ouzeris, hotels and travel agencies.

Armenistis is located 15 kilometres north of Evdilos. In the winter there are living around 100 people here, the number is rising sharply in the summer when tourists arrive. Armenistis was previously a small fishing village on the countryside, but thanks to the lovely beaches and the surrounding spectacular scenery, the village's character changed. Today Armenistis is a full-fledged tourist resort; however a very pleasant one, the feeling of being in a small Greek village is noticeable. There are many tavernas to choose from, some of the best are located along the waterfront at Harbour Street.

After a short walk (3.5 km) from Armenistis is Nas. Again the tourism dominates, which is particularly marked by the large number of tavernas and pensions. But just as in Armenistis, Nas don't feel too touristy. Many of the tavernas have a wonderful sea view. One of the better ones is Anna's Fish Taverna: great food, the views and peacefulness is hard to beat, and Anna herself is a very nice person. Below the village is the small beach Nas beach.

BEACHES
On Ikaria there are many fine beaches, particularly around Armenistis in the northwest. Livadia beach is directly adjacent to Armenistis and is, in my opinion, Ikaria's best beach: fine golden sand and inviting turquoise water. Just a stone throw from Livadia, the beautiful Messaki (see piture on top of the page) beach is spreading out. The beach is very similar to Livadia, a little bit longer though, but just as inviting and with the same selection of fine sand. There are sun beds and parasols for rent and a kantina that sells simple food and refreshments.

SIGHTS
The magnificent scenery is, I personally think, Ikaria's biggest attraction. The so-called pirate houses are also worth seeing. The houses were built as protection against pirates and are very difficult to catch sight of. They look funny, because they are similar to large caps.

ACCOMODATION
Most of the tourists stay in Armenistis thanks to the lovely beaches and the nearness to great hiking trails. Do not expect that people with rooms will meet you in the port. Do you stay in Armenistis, take a taxi there.

The beach of Armenistis (Livadia).

MORE ABOUT IKARIA
Geographical location »
Map of Ikaria »
Ferry timetable »

OTHER LINKS
Fourni - nearest island »
Weather in Greece »

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Evdilos »
Armenistis »

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