Hike in the embrace of nature and mythology
Ithaca is ideal for eco-tourism, as it is one of the few places on earth that hosts so many visitors without having alienated its green landscape. Its unique nature that seems untouched by time and its mild weather year-round, constitute an ideal environment for hiking. In total, on this small island, there are more than 50 km of well-preserved, marked paths, hence naming Ithaca as a walker's paradise.
Olivea | Premium Holiday Homes is located in the mountainous village of Stavros, close to most starting points of N.Ithaca marked trails and within the wider (or broader) archaeological area of Odysseus kingdom, uphill the enchanting Polis bay with "Loizou" Cave, the legendary king's worship place.
Walk along the marked paths that lead to Odyssey's Palace and feel part of Homeric Ithaca: Starting from Stavros, go up Pilikata hill, where a fortified settlement of the 3rd millennium BC was discovered and then head towards the Homeric "melanydro krini-dark water fountain" and the archaeological site of Agios Athanasios-School of Homer with remains of a prehistoric acropolis that testify that the palace of the legendary king ruled there. After all, as Homer also described it, the specific point has "a view of three seas and was surrounded by three mountains".
Starting from Anogi square, after admiring one of the oldest and most important churches in the Balkans, the 12th century Panagia, follow the path that leads to one of the most picturesque villages in Greece, Kioni. On the way, get impressed by the giant monoliths, with Araklis, a 9 m high menhir, being the most impressive. Alternatively, starting from the 17th century Cathara Monastery, the highest point of the island with breathtaking, panoramic postcard view of Vathi and the surrounding Ionian islands, you may end up in Anogi to cool off in the unique shop of the village, the vintage cafe-grocery store. A similar trail that offers a stunning view of Afales bay and neighboring islands and a unique sense of conquest is the path that starts from Exogi and passes by the monastery at Pernarakia.
A deluxe map of all Ithaca trails is awaiting for you inside Olivea | Premium Holiday Homes, so that you may choose the ones that suit you best based on the degree of difficulty, distance and duration. Whatever your choice, a panoramic view will pop up at some point to fascinate you, while the smells of thyme, sage and wild herbs will accompany you along the way.
