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If you're a fan of Greek mythology, you've probably heard of Ithaca, the island where the story of The Odyssey, one of the great classics of literature, takes place. But Ithaca is not just a legend, it is a real island located in the Ionian Sea, west of Greece. And although there is no concrete evidence that the island described in The Odyssey is the same as the actual one, visiting Ithaca will allow you to discover the beauty of a unique island in the world.
The capital of Ithaca is Vathy, a picturesque village located on the east coast of the island. Vathy is an ideal place to start your visit, as it has a large number of stores, restaurants and accommodations for all tastes. In addition, its natural harbor is one of the largest and safest in the Ionian Sea, making it a perfect starting point for exploring the island by boat.
Ithaca is known for its wild and spectacular nature, with a wealth of hiking trails and breathtaking panoramic views. One of the most popular hikes is the one that leads to Mount Niritos, the highest point on the island with a height of 806 meters. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and neighboring islands.
Another option is to explore the impressive cave of Loizos, located near the beach of Pera Pigadi. The cave is a natural wonder that features stalactites and stalagmites that form an amazing landscape.
If you are a history lover, you can't miss the archaeological site of Ithaca, located on the hill of Aetos, near the village of Stavros. There you can find the remains of the ancient city of Ithaca, including the temple of Apollo and a 15th century Venetian fortress.
Ithaca has numerous beaches, each with its own particular charm. Filiatro beach, located near Vathy, is one of the most popular due to its easy access and crystal clear waters. It is also possible to access Gidaki beach on foot or by boat, a white sandy beach surrounded by cliffs and crystal clear waters.
To continue talking about the possibilities that Ithaca offers for visitors, it is important to note that the island has a long history and a very interesting culture. Travelers can explore several archaeological sites dating back to ancient Greece, including the temple of Odysseus, who is the central character in the Odyssey, Homer's masterpiece. In addition, visitors can learn about the island's history through local museums, such as the Ithaca Archaeological Museum and the Ithaca Folk Museum.
Another popular activity on the island is hiking the trails that run through the island. The trails are well marked and take visitors through breathtaking scenery, including olive groves, wildflower fields, green hills and rocky cliffs. In addition, there are several viewpoints on the island from where spectacular views of the Ionian Sea and nearby islands can be admired.
It is also possible to enjoy water activities in Ithaca, such as snorkeling and scuba diving. The island has crystal clear waters and a wide variety of marine life, including brightly colored fish, sponges and corals. Visitors can explore the reefs and underwater caves with the help of local guides and discover the secrets of the underwater world.
For food lovers, the island offers a wide variety of typical dishes, which are made with fresh and local products. Among the most popular dishes are tomato and cucumber salad with feta cheese, moussaka, souvlaki and tzatziki. In addition, visitors can taste the local wines, which are made from the island's grape varieties.
In short, visiting Ithaca is a unique experience that offers a wide variety of activities to suit all tastes. From exploring the island's rich history and culture to relaxing on its beaches and adventuring on its trails and crystal clear waters, Ithaca is a perfect tourist destination for those seeking an authentic and tranquil atmosphere.