10 April 2021

SPOTLIGHT ON… ITHACA

SPOTLIGHT ON… ITHACA

The island of Ithaca is located west of mainland Greece and is the second smallest inhabited island of the “Heptanese”. Its coastline is indented all around with many natural ports and is home to three of the highest mountains - Mount. Petaleiko, the Mountain of Exoghi and the Homeric Mountain.

Ithaca is a beautiful green island, home to large areas of olive groves and vineyards. Its rock formations are made up of Mother of pearl and limestone. It truly is a stunning place to visit!

10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ITHACA

  • The first numerical information on the Ithacan population is from the Venetian period dating back to 1568 when there were a total of 60 families on the island.

  • A large percentage of Ithaca’s working population today are in fact, traditional sailors!

  • In 2017 Optic Fibre internet made its way to Ithaca.

  • Ithaca won the Golden 1st Prize for best wine at the Paris Agriculture Exhibition in the 1800s.

  • Trucks often show up on the island filled with fresh fruit and vegetables from Lefkada and Kefalonia - you can buy the produce straight out of the truck!

  • Fried whitebait is a particularly favoured dish on the island.

  • The island is surrounded by several beaches. You will find a mixture of both sand and pebble beaches where you can take boat trips, and visit some of the more inaccessible places around the island.

  • One of the most exciting landmarks is the ‘Cave of the Nymphs’ - Although isolated in a quiet and remote area, its beauty and shape is a sight to behold.

  • Ithaca is home to the Kathara Monastery, which is known to have existed since the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The top of the mountain from the bell tower has some incredible views of the island.

  • Fishing is quite a popular occupation and is known to be a form of meditation for the local people. It’s certainly an activity tourists enjoy getting involved with!

BIG BLUE IN ITHACA

So, now you know a little bit more about this wonderful and interesting island it’s time to give you an insight as to what you can expect from your trip with us!

The Big Blue team will take you on a 7-day programme (Monday - Monday) along the beautiful Ithacan coastline. Each morning you will board our spacious, 15m wooden sailing boat, Mowgli which will take you to each of your swimming destinations. We have extensive local knowledge and expertise in the area and can therefore offer a unique experience with varied swims and stunning views.

Whilst on the trip you will have the opportunity to visit coves, caves, and other wonderful locations which are inaccessible by road and have only been visited by a few people over the years. It truly is an unforgettable journey.

On arrival, you will be greeted with welcome drinks, a bespoke location Big Blue t-shirt and a sports bottle!

Our Big Blue guides will analyse your swimming technique and offer expert advice to ensure you reduce the risk of injury in the water!

A buffet-style breakfast is offered every morning before we set off to our swimming locations and we ensure the safety of all of our guests by escorting each swimming group with motorised support boats manned by fully qualified first aid experienced swimmers.

So, why not book a trip to Ithaca with us? We are ready when you are! Let’s make this summer amazing! So, what are you waiting for?

We still have spaces left for summer, and you can find out more information and book your place here.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Proud partners of the big blue swim

Big Blue Swim

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