KIONI
The authentic fishing village of Kioni is one of the most beautiful on Ithaca, and a real gem amongst destinations in the Ionian. Behind its small, sheltered bay is a stunning hillside landscape filled with vibrant greenery and sunny olive groves. The village is dotted with colourful traditional stone houses and patios brimming with colourful flowers.
Many tavernas, restaurants and coffee shops line the glistening waterfront, providing a tranquil breakfast spot and an ambient atmosphere for evening dining.
BEACHES ON ITHACA
AFALES BEACH
Located on the northern coast of Ithaca, the beach of Alfales can be found in one of the tiny picturesque bays. Pristine white sand, surrounded by magnificent white cliffs and washed by the crystal clear turquoise sea – Afales beach is a yachter’s paradise!
SARAKINIKO BAY
Sarakiniko beach is a natural beauty, with lush green surroundings and sparkling emerald waters. This quiet bay is so tranquil, offering the perfect atmosphere to relax onboard. Sarakiniko is also ideal for snorkelling, due to the calm, clear waters.
GIDAKI BEACH
Gidaki Beach is located in the South East of Ithaca and is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach of Ithaca. The bright blue-green waters, the pristine white pebbles and the untouched, natural landscape, make Gidaki a dream anchorage.
MYRTIA RESTAURANT
Take a seat at the charming stone taverna of Myrtia, for the most flavourful Greek cuisine experience. Recommended by The Guardian, this restaurant is set in a lush landscape of olive trees, cypresses and heather, and offers the most spectacular view of Afales beach and Exoghi mountain. From the menu you can expect traditional dishes cooked to perfection, including the must-try local specialty “chicken cherepa” and fresh, home-grown vegetables.
To visit Myrtia on your yacht charter experience, you can moor at Polis Bay or Frikes harbour.
A message from the owners of Myrtia
“Myrtia is a family-run restaurant and cookery school, bringing our guests the taste of Greece inspired by Ithaca, in a food experience unlike any other in the Ionians.
Taking inspiration from our home island of Ithaca and the food culture of Greece, we (Poppy & Nektarios!) share with our guests our passion and knowledge of the local food heritage. Celebrating family traditions, authentic local recipes, skills and techniques (like wood ovens and tserepa) that used to be passed from yiayia to daughter, from pappou to son, but which are sometimes forgotten for the convenience our busy lives demand. All served with modern flair to create a delicious and fun experience for lovers of Greece to take home with them.
You can join a cookery demonstration, a tailor-made workshop, or simply take a seat at your table in our restaurant for an Ithakisian food experience like no other, rooted in a food culture & ethos from a bygone era that has been brought right up to date. Our beautiful restaurant, grounds and kitchen gardens overlook Ithaca’s famous Afales Bay with its vibrant blue waters and spectacular views. We are located in the northern part of Ithaca, very near the School of Homer ancient site, thought by some to be the palace ruins of Ithaca’s famous king Odysseus.”
Island Sailing’s memories of Myrtia
“Since Island Sailing’s earliest days, and for over a decade, we have always sailed as quickly as the wind would allow to Ithaca for dinner at Poppy and Nektarios’. In our opinion and experience you can’t beat their amazing food and unbelievable hospitality. With mouthwatering and unique flavours we love their dishes as they offer a wonderful blend of traditional Greece and modern Mediterranean influences. Whilst we all love their savoury dishes, and whilst I don’t have a sweet tooth usually I recommend saving a little room for some of the most delicious deserts imaginable!
Fresh, seasonal and local produce is guaranteed, as is a friendly and professional welcome and attentive, yet unobtrusive service – second to none!”
– Ruth Hope, Co-Founder, Island Sailing
