In the Raches mountain area you will find many small, cozy mountain villages. Raches is located in the west of Ikaria. The lush nature consists mainly of pine forests, olive trees and wine plantations. It is a fantastic area for touring or walking. The most famous mountain village is Christos, also called Christos Raches. The village is located 40 kilometers from the capital Agios Kyrikos. It is about an hour and a half away by car, because you drive there through the mountains. A visit to Christos Raches is more than worthwhile!
The village is known in Greece as “the village where time plays no role”. You can walk to a shop, restaurant or cafe 24 hours a day, it’s always open here. The heart of the village is the village square. Here there are bars, cafes, traditional restaurants and all kinds of shops. You can sit here and order traditional ‘mezedes’ (=Greek snacks) with a tasty ouzo or glass of wine.
In summer, parties are held regularly, sometimes lasting two or three days. It is always pleasant on this village square. The village church is also located here. The biggest celebration is held on August 6 in honor of Jesus Christ.
The entire mountain area is astonishingly beautiful. Everywhere you look, you see green pine forests and beautiful high mountains with steep ravines. The many beehives are also striking; nature has given Ikaria one of the best honeys in Greece. The mountains of Ikaria are rich in water. There are mountain lakes and larger and smaller waterfalls.
A visit to Christos Raches is a must when you are in Ikaria!
