Throughout the ages Ithaki island has been known as the home of Odysseus.  Ithaki is separated from Cephalonia by a channel some 2 to 4 Kilometres wide. The west coast of the island is steep and almost barren in contrast to the green, gentle shoreline on the east.  Ithaki's capital and largest settlement Vathi, its red-roofed delightful houses set amidst enchanting scenery at the end of the deep closed bay of Molos. Taking the capital as a starting point, it’s easy to get to know the island’s landmarks.  Three kilometres to the northwest lies the so-called Cave of the Nymphs (Nimfon Cave). Here according to the myth, Odysseus hid the gifts bestowed upon him by the Phaeacians who deposited him upon Ithaca’s shores ten long years after the end of the Trojan War. 
Also worth visiting is the medieval Monastery of the Archangels at Perahori.  North of Ithaki's capital and 600 metres above sea level, the Kathara Monastery (Moni Katharon) has a unique view of the island from its bell tower. On the horizon you can make out the mountains of Akarnania, the Echinades islets, the peaks of Zakinthos, the eastern coast of Cephalonia and even the entrance to the Gulf of Patras. The bay of Polis to the west is the site of another cave (Loizos’ cave). This one yielded up sherds on which were carved inscriptions testifying to the worship of Artemis, Hera and Athena. Even more interesting, in the cave were also found recently twelve tripods similar to the other that the Phaeacians were supposed to have given to Odysseus. Stavros, a village 17 Kilometres northwest of Ithaki, is a good base from which to explore the northern section of Ithaki island.  About 1 kilometre north of Stavros is Pelikata, excavations on this hillside between the bays of Polis and frikes brought to light remains of a small Bronze Age settlement. The finds unearthed there reinforce the theory that the ancient city of Ithaki island lies somewhere in the vicinity.  Kioni and Frikes, typically Ionian villages, on the northeast coast are unspoilt, wonderful places for a short excursion or an extended sojourn.

Ithaki hotels - Greece
Visiting Ithaki GREECE? Compare Hotel Prices & Reviews Book Now without Diposit! Save up to 70% off rates on all Ithaki hotels. Low Rates & Instant Confirmation. Reserve a hotel in Ithaki, easily and securely with guaranteed discounts, and you will receive instant confirmation of your reservation online. Working directly with hotels to enable them to sell their rooms online, which means we bring the best rates and special offers to you.
All Destinations & HOTELS IN GREECE
Exclusively Safe and Secure Online Hotel reservations in Greece. Book your Hotels in Greece at huge discounts. View photos, maps, reviews, rates and book: pay when you check out. Find the best Greece hotels, attractions, maps, pictures, weather, airport information, travel advice and more ...