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your blue zone wine adventure

Discover the Magic and Mythic Beauty of Ikaria

Ikaria is a place like no other. Wild and rugged, it is a savagely beautiful island that feels largely untouched by modernity. The locals say that time does not exist in Ikaria, and once here, you start to believe it. The days are long and golden, and one feels lulled into a lethargic daydream brought on by an exquisite elixir of sun and sea. The pine trees sway. The scent of rosemary fills the air. One finds their sense of urgency leaving as they watch the sky turn from orange to pink, the horizon between this world and the next suddenly blurry. Join us on an incredible journey through Ikaria’s past and present, with our wine tour touching upon  the following themes: 

  1. Mythology of the Island: The Saga of Icarus in Emotion, Dreams, and Ambition
  • Explore the allegorical significance of Icarus’ flight, reflecting on themes of hubris, aspiration, and the human quest for transcendence.
  1. Introduction to the Philosophy of Wine and its Ancient Significance
  • Discover the philosophical underpinnings of wine culture, exploring its role in social gatherings, rituals, and communal bonding during ancient times.
  1. Lifestyle of the Ikarians: Socialization, Festivities, Dance, and their Impact on Longevity
  • Gain insights into the cultural practices and social dynamics that contribute to the island’s renowned longevity, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among its inhabitants.
  1. Flora and Fauna of Ikaria: Exploring the Island’s Botanical Treasures
  • Delve into the diverse ecosystem of Ikaria, home to a wealth of indigenous plant species and medicinal herbs revered for their healing properties.
  1. The Thermae: Roman Era History and Legacy of the Island’s Springs
  • Uncover the ancient origins of Ikaria’s thermal springs, tracing their history back to the Roman era and beyond, continuing a long legacy of holistic wellness practices used to promote vitality and longevity.
  • Photo

Wine Tour Highlights:

  • Three incredible wine tastings focused on the natural wine production of the Aegean, and guided by an expert sommelier and/or the winemaker themself.
  • Six dinners highlighting local and organic produce, in alignment with the “Blue Zones” diet. One of these dinners will be at a Michelin star restaurant, and all dinners will include a plethora of amazing natural wine. (Please note, we are able to accommodate dietary restrictions with advanced notice).
  • Cooking class/lunch featuring Ikarian herbs and “Blue Zones” recipes
  • Visit to the island’s natural healing thermal waters, and an informal lecture with a doctor about the “Blue Zone” status of Ikaria and its secrets to longevity.
  • Visits to local artisans and an intimate view of village life on the island.
  • Opportunity to visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, a cultural hub on the island and a deep insight into the ancient mythology of Ikaria.
  • Free time to explore and enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches and charming villages.
  • Wine Tour Details

*Please note, tour details are susceptible to change.*

Guest Arrival

  • Guests arrive to Athens and individually travel to the boutique accommodation we have booked for you. You will have time to relax and refresh before meeting the rest of the group that evening in the hotel lobby.

Evening Wine Tasting

  • You are greeted by your tour guide, Mary Kate, and are brought to a local wine bar, where you will enjoy an incredible tasting of wines of the Aegean, while guided by a local sommelier.

Welcome Dinner

  • After the tasting, we head to our welcome dinner, featuring an array of fresh and local cuisine paired with more Greek wine.
Guided Tour of Acropolis
  • Guests enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and are met with a local tour guide to view the famed Acropolis of Athens. You will have some free time for lunch and shopping.
Flight to Ikaria 
  • In the afternoon, we are transported to the airport to catch a short 1 hour flight to the Eastern side of Ikaria.
Dinner & Blue Zone Introduction
  • We check into our boutique hotel and are given time to rest and refresh. Over dinner, we meet with a doctor who explains the unique Blue Zone status of Ikaria, and how we can incorporate some of those healthy practices into our own lives.
Thermal Springs
  • After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the nearby village of Therma, known in antiquity for its healing thermal waters. You are welcome to soak in the springs, swim in the sea, and have free time for lunch.
Hotel Check-in and Relax
  • After visiting the springs, we are transported to the other side of the island, where we will be staying for the remainder of the trip. You are given time to refresh and relax before dinner.
Wine Tasting & Dinner
  • Guests are brought to Afianes Wines, where we will meet with the winemaker, Nikos, who will showcase the biodynamic and ancestral practices of their winemaking. Afterwards, dinner highlighting local Ikarian cuisine will be served under the stars.
Mountain Village Visit
  • After breakfast, we will explore the mountainous region of Raches, with time to meander through the cafes and shops in this charming mountain village.
Cooking Class & Lunch
  • You will learn about traditional Ikarian herbs, recipes, and how to incorporate more Blue Zone concepts into your diets at home. Afterwards, we will enjoy our lunch together!
Free Time in the Evening
  • You are free to swim, nap, explore, and eat dinner as you please.
Visit to Local Beekeeper
  • You will visit a local beekeeper in the mountains and discuss the benefits and the unique qualities of the Ikarian bee and the honey it produces.
Free Time
  • You are free to swim, nap, explore, and eat lunch as you please.
Dinner at Typical Taverna
  • We are transported to the village of Nas, where you will have the option to walk down to the beach to visit the ruins of the Temple of Artemis. We share a sunset dinner overlooking the sea at a typical Ikarian taverna.
Free Time in the Morning
  • You are free to swim, nap, explore, and eat lunch as you please.
Visit to Pre-Phylloxera Vineyard
  • We are accompanied by Nikos on a nature walk through incredibly rare pre-phylloxera vines.
Older Vintage Tasting & Dinner
  • We return to Afianes Wines for an elite tasting of older vintages. We will share a sunset dinner together and enjoy local music at the Afianes amphitheater after!
Flight to Athens
  • After breakfast and checkout, we are transported back to the airport on the other side of the island. A quick 1 hour flight back to Athens allows for time to rest and relax before our goodbye meal.
Farewell Dinner
  • An incredible farewell meal to bid goodbye to beautiful Greece. You will have a final rest at the boutique hotel before departing the next morning.

Why Book With Us?

  • Ancient Wine Heritage
  • Cultural Engagement
  • Luxurious Comfort
  • Excellent Quality
  • Slow Travel Philosophy

2025 Wine Tour Dates:

  • Spring & Summer 2025 dates coming soon!
Book Now

Book A Tour​

(307)-228-0685

Contact

For any inquiries, please contact us at info@odysseyofwinetours.com

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