Greek Islands: Ithaki

Ithaki or Ithaca is steeped in legend. Home of Odysseus, you really have to wonder why he left in the first place. The island of Ithaki is green and lush in early summer.

Vathi (population 2,000), the island's capital which lies to the south of Ithaka is well worth a visit. The only bust of Odysseus on the island can be found In the park in the centre of Stavros. Odysseus homeward journey is said to have taken him and his crew 10 years.

Even if that were true the journey would have been worth it. The island is truly wonderful. On Ithaki you can spend your holiday in stunningly pretty tavernas then walk through ice blue waters at sunset on your way to dinner. The food is better than on many greek islands and the urge to slouch around from one meal to the next is a strong one for most holidaymakers.

Exceptionally pretty views abound on Ithaki and is is one of the few greek islands with some really well respected and attractive five star hotels. Frikes with its lovely though tiny harbor is the most northerly of resorts on Ithaca. The smell of jasmine wafts through the harbor on summer evenings and it really is a place to fall in love with.

The beaches of Ithaca

The beaches on Ithaca are not sandy, being mostly pebbles so bring a beach mat. Many of the beaches are backed by trees which give excellent shade during the hottest parts of the day. For nature lovers, the Loggerhead sea turtle and rare Mediterranean Monk seal are both visitors to the island.

Travel to Ithaki

All in all I would have to say that Ithaca is a great location for a holiday. Thompson and Olympic both arrange holidays to Ithaki, as do many smaller tourist operators.

Reviews of Ithaki

Odysseus

You woud think they would make more of the Odysseus connection. We saw one tiny statue.

James

Turtles

Turtles are amazing and a great reason for visiting the island.

Chris