Ikaria Longevity: Forest Pilates, Monastery & Family Winery

Planning a trip to Ikaria? This full-day experience promises a blend of relaxation, wellness, and local culture, offering a well-rounded taste of the island’s famous longevity. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from detailed descriptions and reviews, it seems like one of those trips that could really enhance your stay—especially if you’re into healthy living, scenic views, and authentic Greek flavors.

What we love about this experience is the variety it packs into just over eight hours. You get to feel the sand between your toes at a stunning beach, enjoy a gentle outdoor Pilates session with a certified trainer, and taste some delicious local wines and vegetarian fare. Plus, the visit to the monastery and family winery adds a layer of cultural depth that isn’t just about sightseeing but about understanding local traditions.

One thing to keep in mind: the price of $186 per person does cover quite a bit—transport, guided activities, meals, and tastings—which makes it a good value if you’re looking for a comprehensive experience. However, the full-day schedule, including some walking and outdoor activities, might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility considerations.

This tour is ideal for wellness-minded travelers, food and wine lovers, and those interested in seeing a different side of Ikaria beyond the beaches. If you’re traveling as a couple, a solo traveler looking for a cultural connection, or even a small group of friends keen on a mix of activity and relaxation, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Balanced mix: Combines wellness, culture, and local cuisine into one day
• Small group: Limited to 8 participants, offering a personalized feel
• Varied activities: Beach walk, Pilates, wine tasting, vegetarian meal
• Excellent value: All-inclusive price covers transportation, meals, and activities
• Duration: 8.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day
• Suitable for: Active travelers, wellness enthusiasts, foodies

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

This tour kicks off with a pick-up from four convenient locations in Evdilos—Armenistis, Avlaki, Gialiskari, and Kampos. The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, which is important given the full day ahead. The small group size, capped at 8, really makes a difference, allowing for more personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.

Mesakti Beach: The Ideal Morning Start

The day begins at Messakti Beach, known for its golden sands and inviting waters. The description mentions you can swim or walk along the shore—perfect for those wanting a peaceful start or a quick dip to energize for the day. Travelers’ reviews highlight that the beach’s stunning views and serene atmosphere set a lovely tone. Expect about an hour here to soak in the sun, take photos, or simply enjoy a slow morning.

Seaside Village of Gialiskari: Breakfast and Honey Tasting

Next, the tour moves to Gialiskari, a charming village where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring tea, traditional pita, and local honey. This is a great chance to experience local flavors early in the day, and reviews suggest the food is authentic and fresh. The honey tasting is a highlight for many, offering insight into a local delicacy that’s tied to the island’s health benefits.

More Great Tours Nearby

Forest Pilates with a Certified Trainer

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the outdoor Pilates session. Set amidst scenic surroundings, this activity aims to revitalize and stretch your body while soaking in nature. The fact that a certified trainer leads the session adds credibility and ensures proper guidance. Travelers mention the rejuvenating nature of this part of the tour, noting it’s a gentle but effective way to combine wellness with sightseeing.

Visit to Karimalis Winery

Then, it’s time for a guided tasting at the Karimalis Winery. This family-run operation specializes in organic, local wines, which are highly regarded. The wine tasting includes a tour of the vineyard, a look into their process, and an opportunity to sample excellent local wines. Reviewers praise the quality of the wines and the knowledgeable guide who shares the story behind each bottle. The wine’s organic nature, combined with the scenic setting, makes this stop a real highlight.

Vegetarian Meal and Honey Tasting

The afternoon concludes with a wholesome vegetarian meal prepared with fresh, local ingredients. It’s a chance to enjoy a hearty, satisfying lunch without meat but full of flavor—something many travelers appreciate. The meal is complemented by additional honey tasting—a sweet note that ties into the local focus on health and longevity.

Free Time at Mesakti Beach

Before the day wraps up, you’ll have about an hour of free time at Mesakti Beach. This is perfect for a swim, a walk, or simply relaxing and reflecting on the day. Many reviews commend the calm waters and beautiful surroundings, making it a peaceful way to end your journey.

Drop-Off and Reflection

Finally, you’ll be transported back to your original pickup points, with plenty of time to process all you’ve seen and experienced. The shared transportation makes for a convivial ride, with fellow travelers often exchanging notes on their favorite parts of the day.

What Makes This Tour Special

The Mix of Wellness and Culture

The highlight of this experience is how it blends physical activity with culture. The outdoor Pilates session isn’t just exercise; it’s about connecting with the landscape and embracing a healthy lifestyle, something Ikaria is famous for. The visit to the monastery and the family winery deepen your understanding of local traditions and the island’s reputation for longevity.

Authentic Local Flavors

From honey tastings to vegetarian meals prepared with fresh ingredients, the tour emphasizes authenticity and local produce. Travelers frequently mention the delicious food and excellent wine, which support the idea that Ikaria’s traditions are alive and well.

Scenic Settings

Every stop offers stunning views, from the beach to the vineyard. The outdoor activities and scenic locations ensure that you’ll leave with not just memories but also some beautiful photos.

Personal Touch

Thanks to the small group size and expert guides, you’ll likely find the experience more personal and engaging than larger tours. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it easier to ask questions and learn about Ikaria’s secrets to longevity and wellness.

Considerations Before Booking

While this tour offers a lot, it’s worth noting that it’s a full day of activity and movement. If you prefer a more relaxed itinerary or have mobility issues, it might feel a bit intense. The schedule is tight, and the activities, especially walking and outdoor sessions, require some comfort with physical activity.

The price of $186 per person includes most essentials—transportation, meals, tastings, and guided activities—but travelers should be prepared for some additional personal expenses if they wish to purchase souvenirs or extra drinks.

Lastly, the tour takes place seasonally, and the itinerary may vary to enhance the experience. It’s good to check the availability and confirm the details before booking, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions or mobility considerations.

The Bottom Line

This Ikaria tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded day filled with scenic beauty, active wellness, and authentic local tastes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small group experiences and want to enjoy the island’s culture and health traditions.

If you’re looking for a combination of gentle activity, cultural insight, and delicious flavors—and don’t mind a full schedule—this experience offers good value and memorable moments. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone curious about the island’s secrets, this tour could become a highlight of your Ikaria trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with pickup and drop-off in Evdilos, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and light, casual clothes suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Can I join if I have reduced mobility?
If you have mobility concerns, it’s recommended to contact the tour provider beforehand. They do their best to accommodate everyone but may have limitations depending on the activities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Infants aged 4 or less may join for free, but note that no meals are provided for them. The activities involve walking and outdoor movement, so consider your child’s comfort when booking.

What is included in the price?
Most of the essentials: expert guide, transportation, breakfast, Pilates session, winery tasting, vegetarian lunch, honey tasting, and free time at the beach.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, making it a full-day experience but one that’s designed to be engaging and manageable.

Are meals vegetarian?
Yes, the lunch is vegetarian and prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Dietary restrictions are accommodated if specified.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides are available in English, French, Greek, and Spanish.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I customize this experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, the small-group nature allows for some flexibility—don’t hesitate to ask your guide about any particular interests or needs.

This tour offers a thoughtful way to explore Ikaria’s natural beauty, health secrets, and local flavors—perfect if you’re after a mix of activity and cultural discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: