By Nicolas Bard

Ithaca is a small island in the Ionian Sea, in the lap of Kefalonia, but is known to the ends of its rich history for its rich history, and is also considered the home of the mythical hero Odysseus. The island is full of side to side with beautiful beaches and picturesque settlements. One of them is and the Kioni, Located in the northeast part of the island, in a windless, well -protected and lush bay. The village belongs to the municipality of Ithaca in the Prefecture of Kefalonia and is 24 kilometers from the capital of the island, Vathi. There are about 120 people permanently inhabited there today.

Kioni is built in the depths of a beautiful bay, and at its entrance we see three ruined windmills. In its natural harbor, the yacht of the island’s visitors, who come from Greece and the whole world, find the summer months in the summer months! The creation of the settlement was behind the 16th century, when residents from the mountain village of Anopos settled in the area. Some houses, in fact, are still preserved today. The settlement has been described as traditional and preserved thanks to its well -preserved Ionian -type houses, which “survived” the powerful seismic vibrations, which have occasionally shocked the Ionian Islands.

Since 1809 the island of Ithaca was part of the independent state “United states of the Ionian Islands“Under the sovereignty of the United Kingdom, and in 1864 incorporated with the free Greek state. In 1953, with the great earthquake of Kefalonia, many houses in Koni were completely destroyed, but many of them were able to stay upright and are witnesses of the architectural influence of both the Venetians and the English. Beyond the well -preserved houses, the village is known for all three historical temples: the church of Agios Nikolaos, in Mavronas, the church of Evangelistria and St. John of Loubardiaris. The latter two stand out for their rare and excellent frescoes, while Saint John also has an elaborate wood -carved iconostasis.

Very close to the settlement there are many small and highly paradise beaches, which are ideal for diving during the summer. The beaches of Sarakinari, placents, Mavrona, Rachi and Frikes are some of the beaches of the area that you will love from the very first dive! The crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea, combined with the lush mountains of the island, are a characteristic image of a Mediterranean Greek landscape, which fascinates all visitors.

Also, despite the tourism development that has occurred in recent years, the island still retains its authentic identity and graphic charm, without altering it by the popularity that acquires year after year. So you can easily find a small bay with turquoise waters to dip your dives away from the hustle and bustle of tourists. Apply your towel under the shade of an olive tree, and enjoy the magic of the Ionian Sea.

Can you think of something better for summer holidays and Digital Detox?