Ikaria’s simple secrets to long life

Supported By: Ikaria

Live Laugh Love? You might be picturing a 00s wall hanging, but it seems it might also be the secret to long life. Well, the Ikarians think so at least. The tiny Aegean island of Ikaria is one of only five ‘Blue Zones’ in the world – an area where people live the longest, owing to their unique lifestyle, diet, routine and environment.

On the mountainous, mysterious Ikaria, there are no cases of dementia and one in three residents live to over 90 years. And it seems it’s not just something in the dazzling blue water and natural springs, but something deeper. So, what’s the secret? Ikaria is home to a close-knit community, where family values, socialising and local traditions sit alongside mid-afternoon naps, home-grown produce and daily red wine as keys to longevity.

The island environment is definitely to thank. There’s no need for a hotel gym, Ikaria’s dramatic mountainous landscape means its inhabitants are constantly getting exercise as they ramble up and down rocky slopes. And you can be sure you’ll avoid artificial additives during a stay – peek into an Ikariot’s kitchen and you’ll find home grown vegetables, baskets of wild, fragrant herbs, pure just-pressed olive oil, fruits plucked from a nearby fruit tree and fresh fish just caught that morning. All soon to be washed down with a glass of delicious red wine.

Make sure you time your trip for the island’s religious festivals – Panigiria, where the community comes alive with laughing, dancing, singing and scrumptious food. Famed for their hospitality, Ikariots welcome travellers with open arms. Expect to leave any household with armfuls of herbs, honey and home-grown veg.

A great place to combine and counteract the buzz of Athens, Ikaria can be reached by ferry or plane from the capital city or from Samos Island. Visitors are drawn to the happy, laid-back island to slow down, recharge and re-set, whilst tucking into delicious Mediterranean food and learning life lessons from the friendly locals.

Visit Website: https://www.bluezones.com/explorations/ikaria-greece/