Seeking Wanderland

Irakleia, located in the middle of the Aegean, is the biggest of the Small Cyclades islands. The island is named after Hercules, the son of Zeus, according to the Greek Mythology. It is an unspoiled Greek island, in a peaceful and slightly remote location, a secluded sanctuary, modest and pristine, with tranquil environment away from the tourist crowds. Irakleia has been inhabited since the very early times, as evidence a lot of mysterious rock paintings from around 5,000 years ago can be found all around it. This little island is home to less than 150 people, swimming, walking, hiking, interacting with locals, and dining are just a few of the things a wanderer could enjoy in Irakleia.

The island has two inhabited settlements, Chora, also named Panagia and Agios Georgios, which serves as the island’s port. Chora features stone-paved streets, classic stone buildings and the white and blue colors of the Cycladic architecture, while the harbor offers the best infrastructure for guests in the island with various restaurants, cafes and other facilities. Irakleia with its pristine beauty, with spots as magnificent as Agios Ioannis Cave, the largest cave in the Cyclades with several chambers and spectacular stalactites and stalagmites and Merichas Cove with its rocky terrain, and its unique scenery, an ideal location for bird watching and nesting, thanks to its high cliffs, has earned a spot in the Natura 2000 Network.

The highest point of the island, Papas Hill offers breathtaking panoramic view to the Aegean and the Lesser Cyclades islands. Further spots offering excellent views are Agios Athanasios hamlet; an old ghost village, with gorgeous stone architecture and unusual town, and Kastro, which dominates Livadi Beach, features the remnants of a Hellenistic fort timed between the 4th and 1st century BC, which was also utilized as a fortress throughout the Middle Ages, when the island was attacked by pirates and its vista includes Schinousa and Venetiko Islet.

The beaches of this island have long coasts and a beautiful wilderness. The majority of the beaches are easily accessible on foot, although some may be reached by rugged trekking trails, since hiking is one of the most popular activities in Iraklia, due to the island’s untamed natural surroundings and breathtaking views. Some of the most known beaches in the island are Livadi, Agios Georgios, Tourkopigado and Alimias. A World War II plane wreck is sunk seven meters below the waters of Alimias cove, making it an ideal location for diving.