Monday – Marmakas walk
A country path takes you up through terraces of wild olive and cypress trees – the perfect habitat for wild orchids and cyclamen. Light a candle in the small church and take in the breathtaking views of the hilltop villages of Exoghi and Anoghi and across the sea to Cephalonia. At the cliff’s edge look across the turquoise bay of Afales to Vasiliki bay and Niras lighthouse on Lefkas. At the hilltop hamlet of Figalia – an old windmill with the remains of a working mechanism. On the way down, a beautiful panorama with sea views of the islands of Arkoudi, Atokos and the Greek mainland. Walk through vineyards and olive groves to the remote Roboti beach for a relaxing swim and picnic in the shade of eucalyptus trees before returning to Frikes for a waterfront snack and cold drinks.
Start: 09.00
Duration: 6 hours
Moderate
Tuesday– Kioni Farmers walk
Popular walk from an old olive press and windmill in Rachi then through farming pastures and olive groves. Learn the history of olive production, cheese and wine making, whilst walking on hidden tracks. Local cheese and wine tasting.
Start: 18.00
Duration: 2 hours
A gentle shady stroll
Wednesday – Nature and Herb Walk
A shaded walk from Kioni to Anoghi along old donkey paths. A break for lunch at a traditional taverna, followed by a tour of the restored mezzo frescoes in the 15th Century church. Descend to Vigla, meandering amongst special indigenous wild flowers and healing herbs. Rest at an olive settlement and open church. Return to Kioni, with dramatic views of surrounding islands.
Start : 09.00
Duration: 7 hours
Moderate to difficult
Thursday - Penelopes’ Evening Trail to “Homer’s School”
An interractive tour from Penelope street to Ithaca's most important Mycenaean/Hellenistic site. Within the excavated ruins see the fortress, court room, ancient stores and tombs. With what you see, decide for yourself whether this Odysseus’ and Penelope's palace. Rich with storytelling, Homeric poetry and myth. Ideal for children and families.
Start: 18.00
Duration: 2 hours
Easy
Friday – Ithaca Past & Present
From The Exoghi Road Walk to the old working plateau and olive groves of Rousanno. A steep but enjoyable climb through ancient pine forest, with striking views of Cephalonia. Reaching an ancient monastery to find tranquility and contemplation, surrounded by pine trees and spectacular views over Ithaca and surrounding islands. Walk back through the historic village of Exoghi, hearing of its folklore and culture. Descend to Stavros along the Homeric path.
Start: 9.00
Duration: 6 hours
Difficult
Notes: Information on meeting points given on arrival 7th June, with taxi service arranged on request. Please wear sturdy shoes or boots, long trousers,
bringing water, hat and sun cream. Programme and times may change depending on weather and group requests.
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