Ikaria is one of the largest Eastern Aegean islands with an area of ​​approximately 270 km², and a coastline of 160 km. It is located east of Mykonos and west of Samos, which is only 18 km away. Administratively, the island belongs to the Region of North Aegean and Agios Kirikos, its main town, is the siege of the Municipality of Ikaria. The population is estimated at 8,423 inhabitants.

Ikaria has an elongated shape in the direction of NE-SW. In general, it is a very mountainous island, with high altitudes and deeply carved terrain, while the landscapes are characterized by contrasts between barren rocky cliffs and smoother wooded slopes.

The backbone of the island is “Atheras” (or “Pramnos”), a long mountain ridge which divides the island into the northern and the southern part. The highest peaks of Atheras are "Melissa" (1031 m) to the west, and "Ephanos" (1041 m) to the east.

Ikaria is surrounded by the vast Icarian Sea which is often very stormy, while its coastline is steep, without bays and natural harbors. Due also to the absence of plains, the oldest and most characteristic settlements of the island are located far above sea level, anywhere arable land and water was found along the sides and inside the gorges of mt Atheras.

Located in the NW of the island, the region of Raches is made up of many small settlements, the most important of which is Christos Rachon. Formerly being the center of a distinct municipality, today this town has only 360 inhabitants, however, because of the natural assets of the area and the proximity to the beautiful beaches “Nas”, “Livadi” and “Messakti”, many visitors are added to this number during summer months.

Christos Rachon is one of the most characteristic mountain villages of Ikaria in terms of natural environment, architecture, etc. It is built at an altitude of 424 meters, while its distance from Evdilos, the nearest port, is 17 km.

The neighborhoods of the village are many, although hardly seen, as they are hidden inside small valleys scattered around its center. In the square of Christos Rachon a visitor can find several shops, restaurants and cafes, a post office, rooms to let, etc.

AI GIANNIS

“Ai Giannis” where the seminar takes place is a neighbourhood of Christos Raches. It is located to the west of the village center at 10-minute walk on the marked trail, or 2-3 minute-drive on the road in the direction of Profitis Elias. The area is covered with pine and olive trees and the rural road leading to it is very narrow. We recommend to use this road by car just in case of need.

This way, you will be able to enjoy this beautiful area through hiking and you will avoid the risk of getting jammed with a fire engine on patrol coming from the opposite direction.