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Ithaka villa holidays
Villas in Ithaka
The charming island of Ithaka forms part of the Ionian Islands and is situated just off Kefalonia's north-eastern coast. Also known as 'Ithaki', this is an ideal place for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a typical Greek holiday without the crowds. Reached by boat from Kefalonia, Ithaka boasts a wonderfully dramatic landscape, from undulating olive-clad mountains plunging into crystal clear, turquoise waters to idyllic, unspoilt coves and quaint, traditional villages. Steeped in enthralling ancient Greek mythology, Ithaka is famous as the homeland of Odysseus whose adventures are recounted in Homer's Odyssey. The island's capital, Vathy, is perched on the water’s edge around a large inlet and it is here that you will find most of the island’s amenities. Our villas are located near to Vathy, a great base from which to explore the island or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of the charming countryside. Ithaka is ideal for multi centre holidays with Kefalonia.
Our resorts and villas
Hints of history in Ithaka
Ithaka has enjoyed over 4000 years of history going back to the Neolithic period, though it remains most famous as the mythical home of Odysseus. The island's capital, Vathy, dates back to the 16th century and has a number of historic ruins, including a French fort from 1807. A visit to the town’s archaeological museum gives a good insight into its history. On exploring the island you’ll come across a variety of ancient ruins, tiny churches and monasteries, the most popular being the 16th-17th century monastery of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) in Kathara.
Local cuisine in Ithaka
Throughout the island you’ll find wonderful tavernas and restaurants serving a fabulous variety of Greek cuisine, from the traditional moussaka, kleftiko and stifado to typical meat and fish mezes. The town of Vathy offers a great variety of dining options, including chic cafés and bustling crêperies, all of which are situated around the harbour, where the local fishing boats chug in and out delivering their fresh catches of the day. For those looking for something a little different, enjoy traditional rural cuisine at the little tavernas in the mountains.
On the beach in Ithaka
Ithaka offers a delightful selection of sheltered coves and sweeping bays curving round shimmering turquoise seas. Most of its beaches are pebble and shingle, so the warm waters are crystal clear and ideal for snorkelling. While some are accessible only by boat, the more popular beaches feature quaint seafront tavernas where you can indulge in lunchtime mezes and escape the heat of the midday sun. Alternatively, pack a picnic and enjoy the peace and quiet of one of the secluded, undeveloped beaches dotted around the island.
Outdoor pursuits in Ithaka
As the mythical home of Odysseus, Ithaka attracts sailors from around the world who come to explore the island. You’ll spot beautiful yachts moored up in the calm, protected bays, with many a flotilla sailing past en route to one of the pretty harbours. Also popular with walkers for its variety of flora and fauna, the island offers a fabulous network of both mountain and coastal paths – some routes are quite challenging and require a guide – with panoramic views over the sea and a chance to experience a little rural life.
Getting to Ithaka
This unspoilt and tiny island is reached via ferry from the port of Sami on the nearby island of Kefalonia. Guests will fly to Kefalonia airport, you can then collect your hired car at the airport and drive to the port, where you can board the ferry to Ithaka.James recommends
- Hire a boat and explore the islets, coves and caves around the island before mooring up in a secluded bay for lunch.
- Explore Ithaka’s capital, Vathy, taking a stroll through its narrow streets and dining in one of the tavernas on the water’s edge.
- Take a boat trip over to Kefalonia and have lunch in Sami, where much of ‘Captain Corelli's Mandolin’ was filmed.
- Jump in the car and drive into the mountains to explore the quaint traditional villages and monasteries.
- Pull on your walking boots and head out on one of the island’s pretty mountain trails.
Temperature chart for the Ithaka holiday season
