The island Ikaria

The legendary East Aegean island of Ikaria is located between Mykonos and Samos, near the Turkish west coast. It is 255 km2 in size and has about 7000 inhabitants. So a lot of space for every person who lives here. Healthy food, dance and community are the basis of life on Ikaria and probably contribute to the long life of the Ikarians.

In fact, Ikaria belongs to the Blue Zone, one of five places in the world where people live longer than average and are particularly happy (according to research on the Blue Zone by Dan Buettner).

The landscape of the island is characterized by a wildness that bears grandiose features. The mountain range Oros Athéras, more than 1000 meters high, crosses the narrow island almost on its entire length and plunges steeply into the sea to the south. (...) No matter from which side you look at the island, Ikaria always shows itself as a harsh, rugged and proud island - but of breathtaking beauty. Pure nature."

(Source: Travel guide Müller Verlag)

For us, the special thing is also the everlasting scent of the over 2400 different species of herbs that grow wild here. Oak - and pine forests let the hikes through the mountains next to the magnificent views become a holistic experience.

Further information about Ikaria can also be found here: www.ursula.ikaria.ch - Homepage of Ursula Kastanias with many photos and information about the island. www.avramidis-ikaria.com - Website of Anna & Niko Avramidis (among other things with films). Here you can find, besides interesting info, also wonderful icarian products.