The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Λεύκη-Σταυρός-Ανωγή (Ιθάκης)

Polis Beach is a well-organized pebble beach in a quiet bay known for its turquoise waters. There is a canteen, showers, changing cabins, and toilets on the beach. Visitors praise the dedicated beach manager for the good service. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as boats, canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) to explore the surrounding coves. On the seabed of the bay are the ruins of a sunken ancient city. The historically significant Loizos Cave is located on the northwest side of the bay.

The bust is located in the central square of the village of Stavros. On the pedestal is the Greek inscription «ΕΥΧΗΝ ΟΔΥΣΣΕΙ». This can be translated as "Prayer to Odysseus" or "Dedication to Odysseus". The inscription is a replica of an archaeological find. In the nearby Loizos Cave (in the bay of Polis), a fragment of a female clay bust from the 2nd or 1st century BC with this exact text was found. This find is considered one of the most important on Ithaca, as it proves that Odysseus was worshipped there as a divine hero for centuries.

From this point at Exogi (near the telecommunications tower at about 340 m altitude) you get one of the most spectacular views of the island of Ithaca. The panorama includes the Afales bay with its striking white cliffs and the turquoise waters of this wild bay, the neighboring islands of Lefkada, Meganisi, Kalamos, Arkoudi and Atokos are clearly visible. You overlook the settlements of Platreithias and Frikes, nestled among olive groves and cypresses in the valley. Greek mainland: In the distance, the coast of the opposite mainland can often be made out.

A great view from about 300m altitude towards the northwest coast of the island of Ithaka. In the background, Afales Bay is visible, known for its steep white cliffs and crystal-clear, turquoise water.

(2) - Melanydros Spring: An underground spring at the foot of the hill, believed to be connected to the spring mentioned in Homer's Odyssey. - Cult Centre: Inscription fragments bearing the name "Odysseus" suggest that the site was an important sanctuary for the mythical hero in the Hellenistic period. The site is located above the village of Platreithia and below Exogi. A model of the site for better orientation can be found in the village square of Stavros. A beautiful hiking trail connects Platreithia via the Homer School to Exogi.

The excavation site "School of Homer", also known as the archaeological area of Agios Athanasios. It is located on the eastern slope of Mount Exogi. The site is of enormous historical significance, as it has been identified by archaeologists from the University of Ioannina as the most likely location for Odysseus' palace. The most important features include: - Mycenaean Palace: A monumental two-level building (Andira) with an impressive staircase carved into the rock. - Cyclopean Walls: Mighty defensive walls made of huge stone blocks, characteristic of the Mycenaean period (approx. 1300 BC).

The Church of the Virgin Mary (Panagia) in the mountain village of Exogi is a significant religious and historical monument of the region. The settlement of Exogi is located at an altitude of approx. 340 meters in the north of Ithaka. The location previously offered protection from pirate attacks. In Exogi, there are two churches (Eisodion Theotokou and Koimiseos Theotokou), which are known for their post-Byzantine frescoes and are protected as historical monuments. A special feature in the village is also the Agia Marina church with a distinctive spiral staircase to the bell tower.

One of the two churches in Exogi. It's the starting point for the signposted hike to the mills. A visit to the cemetery is worthwhile.