Ithaca

Ithaca (Ιθάκη) is a small, mountainous island east of Kefalonia, known as the homeland of Odysseus in Homer's Odyssey. A narrow isthmus joins its northern and southern halves. Green hills, olive groves and steep slopes run down to many small bays. The island has no airport. Ferries connect it with Kefalonia, Lefkada and the mainland port of Astakos.

The capital Vathy lies at the end of a deep, sheltered bay and has two small museums. Near Vathy are the Cave of the Nymphs and the Arethousa Spring, both linked with episodes of the Odyssey. In the north, Stavros is close to the School of Homer, an excavated site that some archaeologists link with the palace of Odysseus. The harbour villages of Frikes and Kioni have traditional houses around small coves. High above the isthmus stands the Monastery of Panagia Kathariotissa, and the hill village of Anogi has a Byzantine church. Show more

Ithaca is quieter than its larger neighbours. Walking trails link villages, monasteries and viewpoints across the island. Beaches such as Gidaki, Filiatro and Sarakiniko are reached on foot, by road or by boat. Sailing yachts anchor in its many coves, and harbour tavernas serve fresh fish.