I’ve been to Greece many times, always to the Dodecanese. I usually look farther south wanting warmer waters : Karpathos, symi etc. it’s mostly been ok, however I’ve encountered some wind I did not like -- and occasionally surprisingly frigid water in July. I always go to lesser traveled islands. The Ionians lie farther north but the more i research Greek sea temps the more i realize it is dependent on the presence of sheltering mountains, depth of water and currents from the north (as there are in the Aegean from the Black Sea). I’m considering Ithaca for this reason. I’d like to go to kythira as it seems wilder, less touristic and more southerly (I'm more into date palms than cypress trees). But it looks comparatively barren, and I fear high winds as it is so exposed on three sides. Are there any southerly islands that offer the delicious looking, calm sheltered coves like the northern Ionians? I’d love to hear from someone who has been to Ithaca. It looks absolutely gorgeous.
Posted by
Provo, UT, USA
5 posts
I’ve been to Ithaca and adored it. The landscape is very rugged with plenty to offer in the form of hikes and nature walks, and it was an incredible experience to explore the ruins of the Palace of Odysseus, who is very much still revered on the island. There are plenty of secluded coves that can only be reached via boat or hike. Gidaki was a particular favorite of mine. I hiked there as the sun set and reached the beach as the moon was climbing in the sky, and it was a breathtaking experience. Filiatro is a nice pebbled beach with a great view of the sunset. Just watch out for sea urchins.
I’d also definitely recommend Cephalonia, especially as it’s only a short ferry ride from Ithaca. If you’re seeing one it only makes sense to see the other. Highlights of Cephalonia include Sami, a cheerful harbor town, the iconic Cave of the Nymphs (just make sure to go in season-most of the caves are shut down in shoulder or winter months,) the gorgeous village of Assos, and beautiful Myrtos beach, a white pebble and cerulean water masterpiece that arguably rivals any in Greece for its beauty, and there’s even a sea cave.
Best of luck on your travels! If you do go to Ithaca, make sure to toss a stone in the sea and say a prayer for Odysseus for luck so your journey won’t end up like his.
Posted by
Lausanne, Switzerland
28 posts
What are the main differences between the islands in the Aegean and the Ionian seas? Which is best for a relaxing family vacation? Rhodes or Corfu (need to find an island with a direct flight from Europe during this Covid season)? Thanks.
Posted by
Washington DC
27062 posts
The only Ionian island I've been to is Corfu. I know it's a lot more touristy now than it was at the time of my visit over 30 years ago, but I have no idea how much more touristy. It seemed a lot greener than the Aegean islands. It gets more rain, though from June to August the average rainfall is low enough I don't think most people would find it an issue. The Wikipedia entries for the various islands give average monthly rainfall statistics that can be helpful if that's a concern.