Ikaria: Discover Life in One of the World’s Blue Zones (Self Drive)

ACTIVE PERIOD: April-June and September-October
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: 1

DURATION: 5 days
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 2

Ikaria: Discover Life in One of the World’s Blue Zones (Self Drive)

Price from €1350

Overview

Welcome to Ikaria, one of the world’s five Blue Zones!

This 5 day self-drive trip gives you the opportunity to experience the island in a simple and meaningful way. Through light activities, cooking classes, wine tastings and time by the sea, you’ll get closer to what makes Ikaria unique, its nature, its food and its people.

From cooking classes overlooking Nas to hikes along trails that lead to the sea, each day strikes a balance between activity and relaxation. At the same time, you have the flexibility to shape your own journey by adding optional experiences such as surfing, beach exploration or extra time in one of the island’s villages.

If a traditional festival(panigiri) takes place during your stay, the program can be adjusted so you can experience it firsthand. These festivals are an essential part of Ikarian life and something well worth experiencing.

View on map

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome to Ikaria
Day 2: Hike from Arethousa to Karavostamo
Day 3: Free morning & Cooking class in Nas
Day 4: Free morning & Wine tasting
Day 5: Departure

Activities / Schedule

Arrival

Upon arrival at the airport, your local guide will welcome you and your experience begins right away. First stop is Faros Beach, where you’ll enjoy your first swim in the island’s crystal clear waters, followed by a relaxed seaside meal that gently introduces you to Ikaria’s rhythm.

Tip: Keep your swimsuit and towel handy in your carry on so you can make the most of the experience from the very first moment.

During lunch, your guide will introduce you to the island and its philosophy of evzōia (a Greek word for well-being), while giving you an overview of what lies ahead in the coming days. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation in Armenistis (Cavos Hotel or similar, depending on availability). The rest of the day is free for you to unwind, settle in and enjoy your first sunset in Ikaria.

Hike from Arethousa to Karavostamo

The day begins with a beautiful hike from Arethousa to Karavostamo Beach, following forest trails and old stone paths, with open views to the Aegean along the way. At the end, a refreshing swim in the sea is the perfect and most rewarding finish.

After the hike, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Slow moments, small discoveries and time to simply take it all in. Your guide will point you towards local spots, traditional tavernas, quiet beaches and places with character, so you can experience Ikaria as it truly is, simple, warm and full of life.

Total distance: 11 km
Duration: 3 hours
Hiking distance: 5 km

Free morning & Cooking class in Nas

The day begins at Armenistis Beach, with free time to enjoy it just the way you like.

In the afternoon, you meet your guide in Nas for a culinary experience centered around one of Ikaria’s best known elements, its food. Overlooking the beach, you take part in a hands on cooking class, preparing traditional plant based Ikarian dishes inspired by the farm to table philosophy. Fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, wild greens and olive oil come together in simple recipes that reflect the island’s way of life.

As the sun begins to set, we enjoy dinner by the sea, closing the day in the best possible way. The sunset at Nas, one of the most beautiful spots on the island, is not to be missed.

Free morning & Wine tasting

Ease into another Ikarian morning. Whether you feel like swimming, reading, or exploring, your guide will be nearby with ideas to suit your mood.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local winery and indulge in a wine tasting experience, learning about the traditional Ikarian winemaking methods and local grape varieties paired with stories, music and local bites.

Departure

Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxed final morning. If time allows, you can fit in one last swim or a coffee in a picturesque village before heading to the airport.

Important Info

In a glance

CURRENCY: euro (€)
TIMEZONE: UTC+02:00 (EET)

Highlights

Βlue Zone lifestyle
Cooking class with a stunning view
Taste local wines
Hidden trails and beaches

Price

1350€/person for 2-8 participants

Participation Requirements

Ages above 10
Basic physical condition
Swimming Knowledge

Additional Services

Transfers: Enjoy your trip with comfort and flexibility, leaving all transportation to us. With a private vehicle tailored to your group size, you move around the island with ease and freedom.
Surf or Canoe Lessons at Mesakti Beach: Add an active touch to your experience at sea, guided by certified instructors at one of Ikaria’s most popular beaches. Ideal conditions for surfing and watersports await.
Beach Hopping Tour & Light Meal: Discover Ikaria’s authentic side by following your guide with your own vehicle on an off the beaten path beach hopping experience. Visit 3 or 4 hidden beaches, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments of relaxation.
Cooking Class & Meal: Explore Ikaria’s local cuisine through a hands on cooking class and enjoy the meal we prepare together at the end.

Ream more

English-speaking Trekking Hellas Guide
First aid kits and other necessary equipment
Liability insurance
Taxes
Accommodation with breakfast
Day 1: light lunch
Day 2: guided hike
Day 3: Cooking Class and dinner
Day 4: Wine tasting

Transfer
Lunch/dinner that is not mentioned above
What is not mentioned above

Equipment

Obligatory light hiking shoes or hiking boots
Second pair of socks
Second pair of shoes that will get wet
Energy snack
Towel
Swimming suit or second pair of underwear
Small backpack
Comfortable clothes (preferably quick-drying material: cotton or polycotton, not denim)
Waterproof jacket/membrane (for the rainy days)
Hat or beanie
Sunglasses
Sunblock
Your own personal water bottle. As part of our environmental policy and actions, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic water bottles.
Hiking poles (optional)