AGIOS KIRIKOS
Built
to the south-east of Ikaria, Agios Kirikos, capital and one of the two
ports of the island, has a population of about 2,400. On a hillock, in
the middle of the settlement that is considered one of the most picturesque
in the Aegean, it is spread in a amphitheatrical fashion over the gulf
of the port, overlooking the neo- classical building that houses the police
station and the port authority. A building of similar grandeur houses the
municipality as well. The area has been ravaged by a major fire in the
summer of 1993.
ARMENISTIS
The
small settlement by the sea called Armenistis lies to the north east of
Agios Kirikos. The village has a population of only 50 inhabitants, who
mainly occupy themselves with tourism, especially lately as the area has
developed into a contemporary tourist centre.
EVDILOS
Evdilos
is built 40 km to the north west of Agios Kirikos. The second port and
first capital of the island of Ikaria has a population of just 300 and
one of the most enchanting beaches. Narrow little streets and traditional
as well as modern houses with plenty of flowers reveal the love and the
ardent desire the inhabitants have for their island. The location is ideal
for family holidays.
GIALISKARI
55
km to the north-west of Agios Kirikos lies Gialiskari, a small settlement
by the sea located in an area with an abundance of pines. The village climbs
up the hills and along with Mantria, Lampsahades and Kastanies, forms a
commmunity having Agios Polikarpos as its centre. The settlement has a
population of about 100 people, who occupy themselves with agriculture,
fishing and tourism.
KAMBOS
A
little further along Evdilos lies the little village of Kambos, which is
believed to have been built 2.5 kilometers to the west of the site of the
ancient city of Oenoe. The legend says that the first vine sprouted here,
and today the inhabitants still cultivate vineyards in the village and
make small amounts of strong black wine according to an ancient technique:
They spread the berries of the grapes on straws, which prevent humidity
from ruining their taste and thus the wine assumes its rich taste and unique
flavour.
THERMA
There
was a time when the only reason to travel to Ikaria was to dive in the
hot thermal waters of Therma. The little village that lies a little further
than the capital of the island is of great touristic interest as ruins
of the ancient baths are found nearby as well as the ruins of the ancient
city of Drakanos. Apart from the radioactive springs, wonderfully organized
beaches are also offered for swimming and relaxation.