Greece’s Unique Blue Zone ”where people forget to die”

Did you know that one in three people on Ikaria island lives well into their 90’s? Most are dementia free and very low on chronic diseases that plague other countries such as obesity, cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

This rugged island is located in the Eastern Aegean Sea near the island of Samos. It is said that it acquired its name from Icarus, the son of Daedalus in Greek Mythology who perished flying too close to the Sun with his wings made out of wax. The place where he fell was named “Icaria”.

There are only 4 other locations around the globe which have earned this classification including Loma Linda in California, Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica, Sardinia in Italy and Okinawa, Japan.

What these 5 places have in common: 

1. Their diet- Which includes lots of seasonal fruits and vegetables combined with beans, potatoes and whole grains. They also maintain a very low consumption of dairy and meat.
2. Exercise well into their 80s and 90s –Most engage in daily physical activity including walking large distances.
3. They drink lots of herbal teas- Such as sage, oregano, chamomile, wild rosemary, many of which are packed with antioxidants and diuretics.
4. They follow a relaxed, stress free way of life and maximize their social engagement.
5. Ikaria specifically also contributes their longevity to a small glass of red wine daily, drinking mostly goat milk, and the exclusive use of olive oil in their cooking.

For more information on the diet and recipes, I have added a link below to Diane Kochilas website who is an expert in the field and native from the island of Ikaria. Diane also has a TV series and has written many books on the Greek “Mediterranean diet”.

In addition to being a “Blue Zone”, Ikaria is a great destination if you want to get a taste of authentic Greece, explore its natural landscape, picturesque villages and just to enjoy a slower pace and stress free escape.

What to see and do:

Take a stroll through Agios Kirykos – Capital of the island and main harbor boasts quaint narrow streets lined with neoclassical houses built amphitheatrically around the port. Explore the archaeological museum and take in the stunning view from Agios Kirykos church.

Visit the quaint seaside villages of Armenistis,  Karavostamo, Evdilos,  Gialiskari, and  Karkinagri or the mountainous villages of Arethousa,Lagada, Proespera, Vrakades and Pezi – Admire their traditional houses and cobblestone alleys.

Get a taste of Ikaria’s nightlife at Christos Rachon – this village that “never sleeps”.

Marvel in the Stone Houses– Built to protect themselves from invaders during the Byzantine period, these houses were constructed and disguised in a way that made them look like massive rocks.

Visit one of the islands museums such as the Folklore, Archeological, Woodcut Art or the MikisTheodorakis museum in Vrakades. The latter is where the famous songwriter lived during his exile on the island.

Admire the Castles of Koskina, Kapsalioni, Paleokastro and the Tower of Drakano

Have a dip in one of the turquoise beaches- Whether you prefer sand, pebbles, or hidden away from the crowds you will surely find it here. Sechelles, Messakti,, Livadi, Armenistis and Nas Beach where you can discover the remnants of Temple of Artemis.

Bathe in the Thermal waters of Therma, Lefkada, Aghis Kyriaki or  in Aghios Kyrikas. Their curative properties are for Kidney, bladder and rheumatic diseases as well as gynecological and respiratory.

Stunning Nature Areas:

Walk the Halari Gorge– This beautiful nature area has plenty of lakes and waterfalls. Admire the stone bridges along the trails.

Hike the Forest of Randi – Listed under EU Natura 2000, contains rare protected species of Oak trees dating over 5 million years.

Marvel at the Lighthouse at Cape Papas – on the southwestern cape built around 1890, is UNESCO registered.

Take a day tour to the island of Fourni – Enjoy its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets and picturesque harbor.

Don’t miss out on one of the islands annual festivals or events which usually take place in the summer months.

Taste local traditional products:

Tour the Afianes or Karimalis Wineries to get a taste of the local Greek wines.

Try Soufico, the islands national dish which is their version of a slow cooked ratatouille.

The island also produces excellent honey and  Kathoura cheese for you to enjoy.

How to get there:

By air from Athens and some of the larger islands.

By Ferry from the port of Piraeus (Athens) and other islands nearby.

Where to stay:

Pyrgos Exclusive Boutique Villas*** in Agios Kirikos – A traditional village of 8 detached buildings of various types. A mix of eco-green architecture with the traditional style, mostly local materials, surrounded with olive trees and wild vegetation along as gardens with local herbs and vineyards.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/pyrgos-exclusive-boutique-villas.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Cavos Bay Hotel and Studios in Armenistis *** – Gracefully standing on the edge of one of the most beautiful sea-beaten rocky cliffs of Armenistis bay, with a stunning panoramic view to the archipelago and the neighboring islands. Built in a traditional style, embellished with chiseled stone.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/cavos-bay.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Erofili Beach Hotel*** in Armenistis – Travelers Choice – located in the picturesque fisherman’s village of Armenistis, next to the delightful beaches of Livadi and Messakti, considered to be the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Sea. From Erofili’s spacious balconies you can gaze at the immense blue sea and greenery of Ikaria.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/erofili-beach.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Kerame Studios and Apartments*** in Evdilos – located near the beach in Evdilos, Built amphitheatrically above the beach of Kerame it offers an interchanging view of mountains and sea. Kerame is a perfect destination for family vacations and for groups of visitors who wish to combine both peace and quiet along with beautiful excursions throughout the island.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/kerame-studios-apartments.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Toxotis Villas in Armenistis -.  A complex of seven traditional villas overlooking the islands of Chios, Samos Mykonos. In absolute harmony with the natural surroundings, the villas are located on one of the most eye-catching hillsides of the village.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/toxotis-villas.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Peskesi*** in Agios Kirikos – Ikaria through Luxury -The love and passion for this place led to the creation of a modern accommodation ready to welcome you to the beauties of Ikaria and its myths.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/peskesi-ikaria.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Anefanti Villas in Agios Kirikos –  On the South Eastern coast of Ikaria, near the gorgeously secluded Anefanti Beach, are five traditional, luxurious villas waiting for you. Relax by your private pool (every villa has one!) or dream away in the little vineyard, only a stone’s throw away from the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean.

https://www.booking.com/hotel/gr/anefanti-villas.en.html?aid=7955347&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2

Link below to Diane Kochlias article on Blue Zones

Ikarian Longevity Veggies…Plant-Based Traditions from Blue Zone Ikaria

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