On the western beaches: Avali - Gaidaros - Kathisma The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 40 minutes (one way) Route’s length: 2,300 metres (one way) Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather permitting. In summer, you should avoid the midday hours because there are no shady places on a large part of the route. The route A pleasant and easy route to the western and beautiful beaches of Lefkada. The route starts from Kalamitsi Beach (Avali). Τo get there, we have driven down the narrow, and not in very good condition and very downhill, asphalt road from the settlement of Kalamitsi. The flat route is initially on an asphalt road, which is also not in good condition but does not affect the walker, and then becomes a dirt road. From Avali we head north, always having the sea to the west (on our left). The landscape is beautiful and special, having to the east the steep slopes of the western mountains of Lefkada and to the west the beaches with the deep blue waters and the scattered rocks that make them unique. There are no shady places on the route. After Avali we find ourselves at the beach of Theotokos (Gaidaros). On this part of the route (Avali - Gaidaros) there are several canteens, which operate during the summer months, offering refreshment and coolness to the walker. In the evening hours the route offers excellent views of the sunset. Towards the end of the route and just before the famous Kathisma beach, the dirt road becomes a slightly downhill path leading to the south side of the beach. We continue along the beach until we meet the coastal asphalt road and the end of our course. Kathisma beach is an organized beach with various shops, mainly catering, and other facilities (umbrellas, etc.) that are also open during the summer months. The return is by the same route unless the walker has arranged for a vehicle to wait for him at Kathisma beach. On the island of Lefkada there are: Citizen Service Centres in the town of Lefkada, in Nydri and in Vasiliki. Police Headquarters in the town of Lefkada and a Police Station in Vlyho. In addition to private health structures there are: Hospital in Lefkada Town, Health Centre in Vasiliki and Regional Medical Centre in Syvros. Kalamitsi Kalamitsi is a settlement in Lefkada, with about 200 inhabitants. It is one of the oldest settlements of the island, built on the slope of the Rachi mountain range, hidden from the sea in fear of pirates. It is located 23 km southeast of the town of Lefkada.  In Kalamitsi we will find 13 windmills that stand there and remind us of the time when the area produced grain. Kalamitsi is also famous for its weavings. The view from the settlement is enchanting and the nearby beaches are beautiful. Theotokos Beach (Gaidaros) The Theotokou beach or Gaidaros is located below the settlement of Kalamitsi. The road leading there is quite narrow and has many bends. In fact, the beach is very close to Kathisma, but you can only get there by walking along the coast. The beach has sand and scattered rocks, while there are several stones in the deep blue waters and there are often waves. From the canteens in the area we can enjoy wonderful sunsets. Also here we can enjoy the flying of gliders, which use the beach for landing. Kathisma Beach Kathisma beach is one of the most famous and popular beaches of Lefkada. It is located 15 km from the town, in western Lefkada. It is a huge sandy beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Kathisma beach is fully organized, with a large parking lot, beach bar, umbrellas and of course a lot of people. However, its size also gives the opportunity for those who prefer quietness to have their space at the edges of the beach. The beach is surrounded by impressive cliffs. Here, paragliding enthusiasts can enjoy incredible views by flying over the beach with its cliffs and turquoise waters. 

In the beautiful forest: A circular route in the forest of Kalafationes   The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.   Route’s type: circular Route’s duration: one hour and twenty minutes Route’s length: 4.000m Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: all seasons, if weather conditions permit it. It is recommended to avoid rainy days or the days afterwards.   The route The route starts from the parking area of the settlement and after walking through the beautiful settlement we reach the central square. There we have to be careful to take the right cobbled path leading to the trail. It is the small downhill, to the north - northeast, next to the large cobbled path. After walking a little more on the outskirts of the settlement, take the path north-northwest. The path is not marked but now and then we find a yellow wooden sign with a hedgehog. The trail passes through lush vegetation providing a dreamy shady environment. The trail is accompanied, in many places (especially at the beginning), by a stream that makes it muddy and therefore slippery. On days after rain it may be difficult to cross. Since the path is not marked, caution is required at junctions in order to maintain our direction. When the downhill path ends, we come across a narrow stream which is easily passed. After this the path becomes uphill, we meet a dirt road, which we take on the uphill side until the moment we meet a gate and next to it the path starts uphill again, which becomes very steep on the way. At its end, the path meets an asphalt road, which joins the main road of the settlement, where after passing the interesting area with the wells, we head to the starting point of the route, the parking area.   On the island of Corfu there are: Citizen Service Centres in the settlements (from north to south): Sidari, Acharavi, Kassiopi, Ypsos, Paleokastritsa, Corfu Town, Achilleion, Moraitika, Argyrades and Lefkimmi. Police stations in the settlements (from north to south): Karousades, Paleokastritsa, Corfu Town and Lefkimmi. Numerous private medical offices, medical centres and pharmacies, while public health structures exist (from north to south): the Avliotes Regional Medical Centre, the Acharavi Regional Medical Centre, the Agios Athanasios Health Centre, the Hospital and Emergency Centre in Corfu Town, and the Lefkimmi Health Centre,   Kalafationes Kalafationes are located in Middle Corfu, 9 km from Corfu town and at an altitude of 182 m., between a dense olive grove and a virgin forest of chestnut trees. It has 461 inhabitants (2011 census). It is a designated traditional settlement. Walking along its traditional cobbled streets, you will admire the folk architecture of the houses and enjoy the hospitality of the inhabitants in the traditional cafes. The history of the settlement dates back to ancient times. Evidence for this, is the existence of ancient settlements in the wider area (Kamara, Kouramades, Kastelanoi, etc.), but also the fact that the calcite found on the hills of Kalafationes and Varypatades was used in antiquity for the construction of the columns and the epithelium of the Doric Temple of Kardaki. It suffered, like other villages on the island, great destruction during the invasion of Barbarossa in 1573. The name of the settlement "Kalafationes" comes from the work of reed drilling, which was the livelihood of many of its inhabitants, either by waterproofing boats or, probably, barrels. In Kalafaties it is worth visiting the modern equestrian club, where riding and therapeutic riding lessons are held, as well as the tzitsibira factory, the only one that still produces this traditional soft drink, a relic of the British rule on the island. In the wider area there are five churches, Agios Ioannis (in the area of Gerama), the Church of Prophitis Ilias, The churches of Agios Ioannis (in the centre of the village) which is the metropolitan church of the village, Panagia (also in the centre of the village), Agioi Pantes (in the south-eastern edge of the village) where it has been moved and currently is functioning as cemetery, and Agia Marina (in the district of Kothoniki). The neighbouring villages are Varypatades, Kouramades, Viros and Kastellani of Mesi. Kobitsi Forest Just a few kilometers away from Corfu town, the village of Kobitsi is located at the top of a hill with a panoramic view of Peleka, the lagoon of Halikiopoulos and the mountain of Agioi Deka. In Kobitsi there are the mansion of the homonymous family, the high bell tower in the church of Agioi Apostoloi and the restored Venetian fountain. Just outside the settlement there is a beautiful forest with pine and chestnut trees, an ideal place for a walk on foot or by bicycle through the lush vegetation and wild flowers, accompanied by the chirping of birds. Varipatades It is one of the most beautiful settlements, belonging to the municipal unit of Achilleion. It is located next to Kalafationes. It is a designated listed settlement, built on the slopes of a hill, the top of which is covered with olive and cypress trees.   Walking along the cobbled streets of Varipatades, we will admire the tall mansions with pastel colours and Corfiot beige tiles, the traditional houses, built almost one on top of the other, the small traditional square, where the church of Agios Stefanos is located. In Varipatades, a unique custom is revived on the evening of Holy Friday: Hundreds of snail shells, the so-called "boboloi" are made into lamps, with cotton wicks in oil, and placed lit all along the route where the Epitaph passes, creating an extremely solemn atmosphere.

The area is located in the east part of Kerkyra Island including the coastal sea area between Kanoni and Mesoggi villages. In the area of Kanoni the water is shallow, and little exposed with smooth rocks at a depth of 0.5 m, and a few fairly secluded pools. The rocks are psammitic. Among the upper rocks the marine phanerogam Cymodocea nodosa grows on sandy substrate. The beds of Posidonia oceanica expand at depths below 1.5 m southwards to Mesoggi. In this area the sea bottom is stony and sandy with stones and rocks of all sizes. The Phaeophyceae predominate while the dominance of the Cystoseiretum crinitae community. Source: Natura2000 viewer, European Comission.

This area lying on the SW coast of the island of Kerkyra (Corfu), is of great importance not only as a wetland but also because of the biological and aesthetic value of the sandy beaches close to the lagoon. At the southern sandy beach, the presence on the island of the unique Juniperus stands and the petrified sand-dunes create an area of great aesthetic value. The site consists of: the Korission Lake (the largest lake in Kerkyra), and the surrounding lake and seashores which are charcterized by varied and important Mediterranean vegetation types. Among them are: 1) The cruceanelletum maritimae which has the eastern limits of its distribution range here in the Korission area. This area is also the single locality in Greece from where Crucianella maritima has been reported, and 2) The Juniperous phoencea stands growing on the southern sandy beaches of the area which seem to be the unique remnants of such a forest in the islands of Corfu. The site is also characterized by the petrified sand-dunes which create an area of great aesthetic value. The most important part of the site is that separating the sea from Korission Lake (between Garziki Point and the beginning of Agios Georgios beach). This is a complex, interesting and almost unaltered ecosystem, one of the few remaining natural ecosystems in Corfu which has not been greatly changed by tourist development. Source: Natura2000 viewer, European Comission.

In Ancient Sami: Sami - Antisamos - Acropolis - Sami The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: circular Route’s duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes Route’s length: 8,000 metres Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather conditions permitting. During summer, you should avoid midday hours. The route The route starts from the centre of Sami where we head along the coast, and after passing the harbour, we follow a north-easterly direction until we meet the asphalt road leading to the popular beach of Antisamos. We continue our slightly uphill path from the main asphalt road with a beautiful view of northern Kefalonia and the strait of Kefalonia - Ithaca, where after a beautiful and relaxing asphalt track of about three kilometers, we arrive at the point where we enjoy an uninterrupted view of the bay and the beach of Antisamos, Psili Rachi and Mytikas. From this point, we descend to the organized and beautiful beach of Antisamos with its clear waters and bars (in summer it is recommended to bring your swimsuit). At the beginning of the beach, where the bus stop is located at the bend in the road, the path starts. Its start is not very distinct due to the various signs that are present. The path is marked with two lines, blue and white, and proceeds easily, first past a wire fence of some property and then uphill, in a shady environment at first, between Skala and Ambelaki, the two hills of the area. As you climb the vegetation becomes lower and lower so that when you reach the top of the junction there are few shadows. At the junction we have two options: a) either to continue on our way to Agios Fanentes, b) or to do this, but after first visiting the site of the acropolis of ancient Sami, located to the west. The acropolis site dominates the hill of Skala, which is practically opposite us. After the acropolis, we head south towards Agios Fanentes and the ruins of the old monastery. Along the way the view towards Sami and the strait of Kefalonia - Ithaca is excellent. From Agios Fanentes the nature of the route changes. The path becomes narrow and downhill and needs attention. The signposting remains the same (blue and white line), while as we descend the environment becomes increasingly overgrown and shady. After a quite steep descent, in about 900 meters we go down about 200 meters of altitude (average gradient 22%), we reach the upper side of Sami, where through Priamos Street, we reach the point from where we started our route. The duration of the march is about two and a half hours, not counting the stops - visits of the various sights of the route (Antisamos, Acropolis of Sami, etc.). As a circular route, it can also be done from the reverse of the proposed direction, which is not recommended, because in this case the initial ascent from Sami to the ruins of the monastery is steeply uphill. In Kefalonia there are Health Centres in Sami and Hospitals in Argostoli and Lixouri. There are also police services in Fiskardo, Sami, Poros, Lixouri and Argostoli. Citizen Service Centres are in Argostoli, Livathou, Poros and in Agia Efthimia. Sami Sami is the largest town in eastern Kefalonia and an important port of the island, as it is the daily connection with Patras, Astakos and Ithaca. It is also a popular tourist destination. According to the 2011 census, it has 1,025 inhabitants  It has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In ancient times it was one of the four largest cities that made up the Kefalonian quadrilateral. Nature has been particularly generous to the area of Sami, as it is surrounded by lush vegetation, underground caves and beautiful lakes. Antisamos  It is the bay next to the port of Sami, to the east. Antisamos is a pebbly beach, long and wide, with waters that look green, reflecting the environment around the bay: green hills and mountains, covered with holly and cypress trees. For this reason, it is also known as the mirror beach. On the opposite side, the blue sea meets the equally green southern part of Ithaca. Antisamos became the setting for some of the most important and impressive scenes of the Hollywood production "Captain Corelli's Mandolin", which was filmed in Kefalonia in the summer of 2000 and was shown in cinemas all over the world, making the area famous.  Acropolis of Sami Perched on Mount Lapitha, the Ancient Acropolis of Sami offers a panoramic view of the homonymous port. With a history dating back to the Palaeolithic period, ancient Sami was a walled city, an autonomous and sovereign state with its own currency. The origins of the city-state can be traced back to the Geometric period. It was a prosperous city, with many inhabitants, due to its developed trade. Its two acropolises, the extensive fortification and the classical city occupy two hills, at the sites of 'Paleokastro' and 'Agii Fanentes', which are located east of the modern settlement of Sami. In 188 BC, after a four-month siege, it was occupied by the Romans and experienced its second period of prosperity. It acquired public buildings, baths and public works, while its private residences are very luxurious with mosaic floors. Its four cemeteries yield rich and impressive finds. Monastery of Agii Fanentes Within the walls of the acropolis of the classical city of Sami, the monastery of Agii Fanentes was built before 1264, when it was first officially mentioned. The name of the monastery, from which the hill it was built on was renamed, Agii Fanentes, seems to have been derived from a corruption of Agii Neophanis, the saints of Sami, Theodore, Gregory and Leo. According to another version , the name of the monastery is related to the 2nd century AD gnostic philosopher Epiphanis, who was venerated as a god in Sami.  Although the ruins date back to the post-Byzantine period, during which it was renovated (1633), built-in architectural elements in the Catholic Church indicate the existence of a church of the Middle Byzantine period. The complex follows the typical Byzantine layout with the cells arranged in a quadrilateral enclosure and the catholic, free inside. The walls and the incorporation of the ancient fortification tower into the building testify to the need to protect the monastery from pirate attacks, which plagued the island during the Frankish and Venetian periods.  The miraculous icon of Agii Fanentes and the icon of the Virgin Mary Glykofilousas, the so-called "Loutrou ", are located in the new Church of the Virgin Mary in Sami. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) at a central point in Sami (Priamou + Akti Miaouli), b) in Sami (port exit), c) on the road to Antisamos (after Loutro beach), d) on the road to Antisamos (at the viewpoint), e) at the start of the path from Antisamos, f) at the end of the path from Antisamos (where it meets the asphalt road), g) at the parking area of the Monastery of Agii Fanentes in Sami, where the path meets the asphalt road

Marine reptiles: The site includes the coastal marine area (up to the 50m isobath) from the entrance of Argostoli Gulf until Mounta Bay to the south-easternmost point of the island. It also includes the beach and the dunes of Mounta beach. Marine habitats (subregion: PARAKTIA THALASSIA ZONI APO ARGOSTOLI EOS ORMO MOUNTA): In 2015, the site was extended to include the marine area between Vlachata and Mounta bay, where numerous caves, shallow reefs and extensive Posidonia beds occur. The area was also extended 2nm off coast to comprise ecologically important and vulnerable rhodolith beds and coralligenous formations. Source: Natura2000 viewer, European Comission.

In the waterfalls: Nydri - Dimosaris Waterfalls The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear  Route’s duration: 1 hour (one way) Route’s length: 3,700 metres (one way) Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather permitting. The route Dimosaris Waterfalls is a fairly popular destination, at least during the tourist season. The route proposed here is not the standard main route but follows parallel roads and paths for most of it. The proposed route is not signposted and following it requires caution. The route starts from the main pedestrian street of Nydri (indicatively, the taxi stand is considered as the start) and continues north-northeast along the pedestrian street until it meets the Dimosaris bridge. From there we turn west, parallel to the river (there is a sign) until we reach the main asphalt road, the main road of Lefkada - Vasiliki. At this point, and for about 80 meters we follow the provincial road to the north and after passing the bridge we turn west on the small asphalt road where we continue on the same route, with direction to the river (Northwest - West). In about 850 metres, at the point where the asphalt turns to the south, we continue straight on, through the dirt road which leads us to an olive grove. We easily cross the olive grove and end up at a junction of small roads. We continue straight on and after passing the local stadium (on our left) we turn west from the bridge where we reach the main road leading to the parking area for the waterfalls, after about 600 metres. In the parking area there is a café from which a tastefully landscaped path starts, easily passable and requiring increased attention in only a few places. The path leads us through a lush environment next to the river, to the dreamlike and imposing landscape of the gorge and the waterfall. As a linear route, the return is by the same route unless the walker has arranged to have a vehicle waiting for him at the parking area of the waterfall. On the island of Lefkada there are: Citizen Service Centres in the town of Lefkada, in Nydri and in Vasiliki. Police Headquarters in the town of Lefkada and a Police Station in Vlyho. In addition to private health structures there are: Hospital in Lefkada Town, Health Centre in Vasiliki and Regional Medical Centre in Syvros. Nydri Nydri is the most famous and cosmopolitan tourist resort of the island of Lefkada. The settlement became particularly famous when in 1963 the ship owner Aristotle Onassis bought the opposite island of Skorpios. Since then, it has hosted numerous celebrities from all over the world, which gave it international fame. Today, a statue of Onassis stands in the harbour of the village.  Today it has exceptional tourist amenities with many accommodations, tavernas and nightclubs. In addition, it has many attractions and a lovely beach. Apart from the famous waterfalls in Dimosari, it is worth visiting the chapel of Agia Kyriaki , located opposite Nydri, in the bay of Vlychos, with excellent views of Nydri and the island of Valaoritis, Madouri. On the way to the chapel, on the hill of Nymphs, we meet the grave of the archaeologist Dörpfeld. The archaeologist William Dörpfeld was a supporter of the theory that Lefkada is the Ithaca of Odysseus and his palace was located in Nydri. During excavations in the plain of Nydri at the Steno site, he found many remarkable findings, which testify that Nydri has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Dimosaris Waterfalls The Dimosaris Waterfalls are located just 4 km from the sea, in the homonymous gorge. They are located very close to the most cosmopolitan part of the island, Nydri, and yet the peace and tranquility of the landscape is unique. It is one of the most important natural attractions of the island, even in the season when water is scarce.  At the entrance of the waterfalls there is an almost "arched" opening from which the rock has been cut away. We come across the first waterfall, Ronies, among huge rocks. It is the smallest and forms a beautiful turquoise small lake. Climbing up the steps we meet the next waterfall, about 12 metres high. Even with a small amount of water, it is charming. The dense vegetation, the gurgling water, the imposing, smooth and shiny rocks, the pond, all contribute to an unforgettable experience. A swim in their gurgling waters will also be unforgettable.

At menhir of Araklis: Anogi - Kioni The walker’s/tourist's orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes Route’s length: 5.500m Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: all seasons, if weather conditions permit it The route This route can be accomplished in two ways: a) by hiking from the beginning of the route (ascent from Kioni) and then returning from Anogi (descent to Kioni), b) transition by car to Anogi and from there downhill to Kioni on foot. Afterwards, the car must be left to Kioni. The route is described from Anogi to Kioni (second option). The route starts on an asphalt road downhill through the village and then we follow signs pointing to the path (or the heliport). There are also the familiar signs for the path (two lanes, one white and one blue). Shortly afterwards we turn right towards the "menhir of Araklis" (there is a relevant sign). After visiting the organized area of the impressive monolith we return to the main route and we head towards the heliport. After bypassing it (actually next to the barbed wire of the heliport) following the relevant signs (apart from the white - blue striping there are black arrows on posts on a yellow background) and the relevant signs and passing a gate for animals (we open it and we close it again), we reach an organized area with benches and a gazebo. From there, the path becomes paved, after recent works. The paving has not been properly maintained and in many places it is deteriorating and, in our opinion, has altered the original character of the path and creates walking difficulties. The trail continues on a smooth downhill through a shady environment (oaks, holm oaks, cedars, etc.), especially relieving in summer. Next to it, there are lush hills while the walker enjoys the view of the Ionian Sea and its islands (Atokos, Arkoudi, etc.) where the sea shimmers through the trees. Along the way, the walker encounters a second gate for animals (he or she should open it and close it again) and at this point they enjoy the view of the magnificent Kioni. Shortly after, at the iconostasis, there is a junction for the church of Agios Nikolaos (in Mochla) which was recently reconstructed. The route continues in the same beautiful environment downhill where at some point the new path meets the old one and the first crops (vineyards) appear. The route continues through a smooth dirt road which, after the relevant gate for animals (we open and close it), crosses the old marked path several times and the walker can choose whichever way they want. At the end of the dirt road, we reach the church of Agios Gerasimos which marks the entrance to the settlement. The junction on the left leads to the main parking area of the settlement, while on our right hand, the route continues through the settlement, well signposted, on asphalt or concrete roads. The route ends with the descent from the stairs and the cobbled path that leads us to the centre of the settlement (the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos) with its welcoming shops. In case the hiker makes the whole route (Kioni - Anogi - Kioni), they should at least have some water with them because the cafe in Anogi is not always open. The duration of the walk from Anogi to Kioni is one and a half hour. This time must be multiplied (by adding another two hours) should the walker decide to return to the starting point (Anogi). In Ithaca there are: A Medical Centre in Vathi and a Regional Medical office in Stavros, a Police Station in Vathi and a Citizen Service Centre (KEP) also in Vathi. Anogi Anogi is a mountain village of Ithaca, built on the eastern slope of Mount Niritos. Protected from pirates, it occupied an important position on the island during Byzantine times. The village’s church of Kimisis tis Theotokou (the Assumption of the Virgin Mary), dates back to the 12th century, with hagiographies by Byzantine artists and its imposing Venetian bell tower. Some of the houses in Anogi are buildings of past centuries and retain the traditional architecture: they are stone-built, tall, with narrow doorways and small balconies. It is worth participating and having fun in one of the best festivals of Ithaca on the eve of the feast of Panagia, on August 14th. Near the village is the historic monastery of Panagia Katharae, the patron saint of Ithaca. Menhir of Araclis In the area of the settlement of Anogi there are scattered huge boulders called menhir ("long stone" from the Breton men = stone and hir = long). They are one of the attractions of the island, and their origin is purely geological and not man-made. Residents have given names to the boulders based on their shape. Thus, the largest and most important boulder has been called "Araklis" (a corruption of "Hercules") because of the great power of the ancient hero. It is spindle-shaped, superimposed on a wider rock, which forms his pedestal, and it has a height of 9 m. In the area, a total of about twelve smaller monoliths of various shapes and sizes have been counted. Atokos Atokos is a rocky island of 4.5 square kilometres which is part of the Echinaean Islands complex and belongs administratively to Ithaca. It is an island with one large sand and pebble beach and three smaller ones, all with crystal clear, blue or green waters. It is a popular island for boats since it is protected from the northwest winds. Atokos, with its impressive rocky shoreline, is an ideal destination for snorkeling and fishing. It is part of the Natura 2000 network, having a rich flora and fauna. The common dolphin (Delphinus delphis) is often seen in the marine area, while seals monachus monachus find shelter in the caves along the coastline, such as in Fokospilia. Wild goats, wild rabbits and black pigs can be found on the island. The island's avifauna is also important, since the Black Vulture, the Spotted Eagle and the Vasilhaeus Eagle live there. Kioni Kioni is one of the most beautiful settlements of Ithaca. It was built in the 16th century by the inhabitants of the surrounding mountainous areas, who wanted to be close to the sea. Entering the beautiful cove of Koinos, the visitor sees the preserved traditional settlement, perched amphitheatrically on a green slope that meets the sea, which from May to October is flooded by small and large boats. If the visitor arrives by road from the capital of the island, Vathi, after 24 kilometres they will see Rachi at the entrance of the village. At the top of Rachi, there is the church of Evangelistria, built at the end of the last century with an interesting iconostasis. On the left, there is the small cove of Mavrounas, a small shelter for small fishing boats. In this area, the monastery of Agios Nikolaos used to operate in the century before last, while today there is only the small church, in the sanctuary of which an ancient colonnade is preserved. It is also worthy to walk on the road to "Argalion" and to the area of Lontza. There, you will find the ruins of the house of the hero of '21, Karaiskakis, and the pebble beaches with green waters Katsikouli, Sarakinari, Plakoutses and Filiatro, where you can enjoy swimming. A trademark of Kioni are the three traditional windmills at the entrance of its sheltered harbor. The settlement celebrates Ai Lia’s day (St. Ilia’s day) on July 20. In the morning, small fishing boats take the residents to the small chapel, located just outside the harbor, while in the evening a festival is held on the beach, where the fun and dancing lasts until the morning hours. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) start of the route (at the site of the church of Kimisis tis Theotokou (Assumption of the Virgin Mary), b) at the site of the monolith "the menhir of Araklis", c) at the kiosk next to the Heliport, d) at the gate for animals on the path, e) at the pavilion on the road, f) at the paddock of Agios Gerasimos, g) at the end of the route (at the steps in Kioni).

Diapontia is a small island complex situated at the north-westernmost part of Greece, in the NE Ionian Sea. The complex consists of three main (populated) islands (Othonoi, Erikousa and Mathraki) and some smaller uninhabited rocky islets (Trachia, Platia, Diaplo, Diakopo). This fully marine site extends at depths of 0-50 m and covers an area of 153.38 km2. This marine area is characterized by the existence of Posidonia beds, mainly in depths between 5-30m.