Explore Ithaca's Rich Heritage: Vathy - Cave of Nymphs - Paleohora - Perahori - Vathy

Embark on an unforgettable 5-hour adventure, delving into the ancient, recent, and modern history of Ithaca. Our moderate 6.8-kilometer round trip begins at Vathy Square, leading you uphill to the enchanting Cave of the Nymphs, a Homeric location steeped in captivating tales.

Immerse yourself in the island's spiritual essence as we visit two small Orthodox chapels near the cave, adding a touch of sacred beauty to your journey. Continue to Paleohora, the charming old village on the south side of Ithaca, where history comes alive. Explore the historic Saint John Church, a testament to the village's enduring past.

Our trail then winds its way to the modern village of Perahori, a picturesque setting where tradition meets contemporary life. Take a well-deserved break at a traditional cafe, savoring local flavors and enjoying the serene ambiance for half an hour.

To complete this memorable round trip, descend through the old village road, witnessing the timeless beauty of Vathy. This hike promises an enriching experience, blending nature, history, and culture in a perfect fusion. Don't miss this must-do exploration of Ithaca's diverse landscapes and captivating stories.

Information: 

• Duration: 5 hours: 4 hours hiking – 1 hour cafe stop
• Hiking Distance: 6.8 kilometers
• Level of difficulty: Moderate
• Proposed starting time: 8 am (meeting in Vathy main square). 
• Transfers: There are no transfers for this trip.
• Minimum participants per Group: 3 people
• Cost: 55€

That’s a medium difficulty hike which will last 6 hours depending on our pace and the stops we will do. The first part of the path is a rocky old path with a stunning view. We reach almost 700 meters elevation and you have a view of the whole surrounding middle Ionian sea area. The second part of the path (after Anogi village) is covered with stone in a traditional way. We can visit some spots around Anogi village such as the monastery of Kathara, the Byzantine church next to the main square of the village and the huge monoliths also known as Menirs. On our way to Kioni we visit the small chapel dedicated to the Holy Mary also known as Mouhla, recently refurbished by the locals. Kioni village is a great place to relax after this hike or to swim at its tiny beaches.

*There is a morning taxi or minibus transfer from Vathy to Kathara Monastery and a boat transfer from Kioni to Vathy.

*7 hours: 5 hours hiking – 30 minutes stop at Anogi village at the traditional cafe – 30 min stop in Kioni Village – 1 hour Boat ride and swim stop to Vathy

*Hiking Distance: 9km

This is our longest hike. It is a complete round trip consisting of a long hike and a relaxing boat trip back to Vathy. We are starting the hike straight from Vathy town and then we visit the cave of the nymphs. Then we “climb” to Perahori village and we visit Paleohora Medieval village and the orthodox church of Aei Giannis with the remains of the frescos. From there we are heading to Perahori village where we can have a short stop at the traditional cafe. Then we hike to the agricultural Marathias area through the old pilgrims’ path and finally we visit Arethousa Krini spring which is a Homeric location. Next to Arethousa Krini is located close to Talaros beach where we can have a swim. The boat will pick us up from there and it will take us to Gidaki beach for a second swim and then back to Vathy in the afternoon.

*Boat transfer from Pera Pigadi beach to Vathy.

*8h 30min: 5 hours hiking, 30 minute stop at the traditional cafe at Perahori and 1h 30min boat ride and swim stop

*Hiking Distance: 11,5km