Ithaki
About Ithaki
Ithaki is a pretty small (96 km2 - about 4.000 inhabitants), mountainous and quiet island in the Ionian sea, just a few kilometers east ofKefalonia and close to the Greek west coast. There are some archaeological remains to be found; the island is ideal for hiking.
Ithaki is known to the world as the island of Odysseus and Homer's Odyssey. Probably the most legendary of all the Greek islands, Ithaki is unspoilt by mass tourism.
Ithaki is situated only a few miles from Cefalonia. Its enchanting coves turn into paradise on earth. The west side of the island is steep and bare in contrast to the east which is verdant and slopes gently down to the sea.
The visitor can go on excursions to the traditional seaside villages and visit the medieval monastery of Taxiarches and the wonderful caves of the island.
A road leads from the capital port of Vathy to the smaller ports of Polis, Frikes and Kioni, skirts mount Niritos, allows a quick glimpse up to the village of Exohi, perched up high, overlooking the bay of Afales and passes the beautiful beaches of Agios Yannis. Exploring this unspoilt island by boat or foot you are able to discover the legendary places mentioned in Homer's odyssey, small inland villages, ancient monasteries and deserted beaches.
You can get to Ithaki by boat from Patras and the islands of Kefalonia and Lefkada.