Feast of Saint Prophet Elias at Kioni
Exploring Ithaca Sailing Holidays area
July 20 is the day of celebration of St. Elias Church near Kioni beach where a feast is organized with music and dance. During the day, small boats bring visitors to the chapel of the church to observe local traditions and customs.
According to tradition, St. Elias was sailor who, after having survived drowning several times, decided to settle down and live in a place where no one would know anything about the sea. So he placed a paddle on his shoulder and started asking everyone he would meet about the paddle and if they knew what it was.
As long as they recognized the paddle, St. Elias would keep going further up in his journey. Eventually he met a shepherd in the mountains and asked him about the paddle—the answer was “wood”.
At that moment, he decided to settle down in the mountains and according to tradition; this explains how all the churches dedicated to him are located in mountainous areas.
- Visit Site
- Date: 20 of July
Navigational Aids
Afales beach is a wonderful pebbled beach. A rock formation on the bay hide two more secluded pebbled beaches, for those seeking peace and tranquility.
Situated in the northern side of Ithaca, Marmakas beach is filled with white shiny pebbles. This idyllic area is known for its emerald, mirror-like waters and the lush green surroundings.
To the south of Kioni, beyond the small cape of Ai Lias with its tiny chapel, a small beach with beautiful pebbles and blue waters is waiting to welcome visitors. Beach is usually isolated.
Coming from Kioni to the south, after the cape of Ai Lias to the chapel towards the Bay of Eagle deserted pebbly beach. Access only possible by boat.
Coming from Kioni to the south, after the cape of Ai Lias to the chapel towards the Bay of Eagle deserted pebbly beach. Access only possible by boat.
There are five waterfront tavernas and three small café bars. A general store sells nearly everything from snorkels to fresh peaches.
In the SW part of the head of the bay Frikes the namesake small harbor has been built, open E, about 100 m wide, with depths of 7.9 m in the middle.
