The underrated and wondrously wild Greek island that's been named best to visit in 2025
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A gorgeous Greek island that's 'well beyond the usual tourist radar' has been named as one of the best of the country's islands to visit in 2025.
According to Lonely Planet, Ikaria is one of the best Greek islands to add to your bucket list.
While the island isn't a leading tourist destination, it has been globally recognised for its long-living residents.
Ikaria is one of the world's five designated 'Blue Zones', places where people are much more likely to live to 100.
But why is it one of 2025's best Greek islands to visit?
Lonely Planet reveals: 'It takes effort to get to Ikaria, a wondrously wild island in the eastern Aegean, but those who make it this far too rewarded.
'Ruggedly mountainous, gorge-riven, thickly forested and well beyond the usual tourist radar, this island has its own look and culture.'
According to Homeric legend, Dionysus, the god of wine and theatre, was born on Ikaria.
According to Lonely Planet, Ikaria is one of the best Greek islands to add to your bucket list
At Therma, a spa village on the island, tourists can unwind in Ikaria's hot mineral springs which are thought to soothe arthritis and rheumatism
The island is heavily tied to Greek myth and even earns its name from Icarus, the man who flew too close to the sun.
Lonely Planet recommends hiring a car to explore the island to make your holiday 'feel like a proper adventure'.
The travel guide suggests heading to Seychelles Beach, known for its 'dazzling azure waters'.
A picturesque cove, Seychelles Beach has bright pebbles and is backed by rock formations.
At Therma, a spa village on the island, tourists can unwind in Ikaria's hot mineral springs which are thought to soothe arthritis and rheumatism.
Those looking to emulate the islanders' healthy lifestyle can head into the hills to see the giant rock houses where locals used to hide from pirate attacks.
'These stiff climbs - along with a herb-rich diet - are part of what contribute to the island's extraordinarily high number of centenarians,' reveals Lonely Planet.
While Lonely Planet recommends taking a ferry from Kos to Ikaria, it can also be reached by plane from Athens.
A picturesque cove, Seychelles Beach has bright pebbles and is backed by rock formations
Those looking to emulate the islanders' healthy lifestyle can head into the hills to see the giant rock houses where locals used to hide from pirate attacks
The travel guide suggests that tourists spend two weeks on Ikaria to let the island 'truly work its magic'.
And Greece is also home to Europe's best beach, according to a new ranking.
Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach took the crown in a ranking put together by judges at European Beach Destinations.
The beautiful Greek beach is located on the country's northern Kassandra Peninsula.
Daily Mail
