Ithaca is the second smallest of the Ionian islands, still unspoiled. A gorgeous rocky island with verdant vegetation, mountainous villages with traditional character that is generally identified with Homer’s Ithaca, the home of Odysseus from Odyssey and Cavafy’s “Ithaca,” the symbol of adventure, travel and continuous pursuit.
It stands among the other Ionian islands as calm and wild, simple and genuine, romantic and poetic, mysterious and legendary, all at the same time. Its architecture is based on a mixture of cultural influences from the Venetians and British who conquered the island in the past. Most houses are built using wood and stone with no balconies but with lovely gardens and clean yards.
The largest part of the island is amphitheatrically built and you can find elegant mansions with many characteristics from the renaissance architecture there.
Vathy is the main town. A full sized marina including dock and wet mooring slips will allow you to sail the island in absolute comfort. The Ithaca Yacht club stands proud of its elegant dining room and pub with a full service that can become a yachtsman’s paradise.
Gentle, calm, clear waters make Ithaca one of the safest sailing areas in the world. Swim in the crystal waters of Filiatro, Sarakiniko and Agios Ioannis or find your own secluded coves. Walk along trekking paths, have your fresh seafood at the local, traditional tavernas and chat with the welcoming locals. Meditate, have a relaxing drink and view zillions of stars in the night sky as you attempt to seize the day and find the meaning of life. Other known small and charming villages in Ithaca are: Frikes, Kioni, Perahori, Lefki and Exogi.
Reach Ithaca by boat or your private/rental yacht and once there, move around by car. It is accessible from the ports of Patras, Kefalonia and Lefkada. Once in the island, you can move around by car or taxi. Heath centre for emergencies is located in Vathy.