The lush island of Ikaria is known for many things associated with a good life: irresistible, days-long Dionysian festivals, quirky residents who seem immune to old age and to the concept of timekeeping, and the impassioned Icarus, mythical son of Daedalus, whose wings reportedly melted somewhere above these cold seas. Now add to the list bouldering & climbing, complete with a climbing festival in mid-June. There are approximately 120 sport routes and more than 300 bouldering problems on Ikaria, i.e. enough to keep you happy during the festival’s three days and beyond. Ikaria, which is only four islands northwest of Kalymnos, is relatively easy to get to from Athens via ferry (6,5 hours) or plane (45 minutes). It is beautiful and quite unlike any other Greek island. For more info, head over to the Ikaria Bouldering & Climbing Festival page, take a look at the Ikaria Bouldering Guide, or send questions our way.
2 Comments
Mike Reed
Planning on popping over for the festival and staying near Evdilos.
Do we know where the sport climbing is in relation to Evdilos please?
Is that a good choice?
Is it easy too hire a car at the port on arrival?
I have the bouldering guide, but not certain of the sports crags.
Any guidance appreciated.
Blue Zone Climbing Ikaria
Hello Mike! Yes, Evdilos is a great choice to stay if you wish to visit the sports crags. During the festival we will focus on Sector Droutsoulas, Sector Platanopi and Sector Maggano, which are only 15-20 minutes away from Evdilos. You can get more details at the festival’s reception for all the crags. For a car rental you could try “Aventura” at Evdilos and mention you are a climber for the festival in order to get some special prices! If you do not have anything in mind for accommodation try Ikaria hotels (Kerame or Atheras) also with special prices for climbers! See you there!