Ikaria, Two Family-run Wineries in a single Day with Pick-Up

If you’re a fan of wine and scenic sunsets, this Ikaria tour promises an authentic glimpse into the island’s longstanding winemaking traditions. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary reveal a thoughtfully curated experience that balances cultural insight with breathtaking views.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to sample local, traditional wines at two different family-run wineries, each with its own charming character. Second, the focus on learning about Ikaria’s wine history—a chance to connect with the island’s cultural roots. And third, the stunning sunset views at Tsantiris Winery, which many reviewers say are truly unforgettable.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration of 8.5 hours means a fair bit of time on the road and walking around. It’s ideal if you’re eager to maximize your day and want a comprehensive taste of Ikaria’s wine scene. This experience suits those who enjoy relaxed, educational outings with scenic rewards—perfect for wine enthusiasts, romantics, or travelers who love a combination of culture and nature.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visits to two family-run wineries offer genuine insights into Ikaria’s wine traditions.
• Stunning Sunset: The tour concludes with free time at Tsantiris Winery to enjoy the island’s most beautiful colors over the sea.
• Small Group Advantage: With a maximum of 8 participants, expect a personalized, intimate atmosphere.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From scenic drives to guided tours and tastings, every moment is designed for enjoyment.
• Expert Guide: An English-speaking guide shares local stories, enhancing your understanding of Ikaria’s wine culture.
• Value for Money: At $165, the tour provides a full day of experiences, tastings, and views—not just a quick visit.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ikaria Wine Tour

Starting with Convenience: Pickup and Transportation

The tour kicks off with pickup options in six locations across Ikaria, from Raches to Gialiskari, making it flexible regardless of where you’re staying. The transportation is described as comfortable and air-conditioned, which is a pleasant relief after a warm day exploring. The transfer times are reasonable—roughly 30 to 45 minutes between stops—allowing for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Many reviews emphasize the importance of being punctual as all departures run on time, so arriving at least 20 minutes early at the meeting point (Days of Ikaria Office) ensures a smooth start. The shared transportation enhances the social aspect of the tour, and with only 8 participants, you’ll find plenty of space to relax while soaking in views during drives.

First Stop: Karimalis Winery in Pigi

The journey begins at Karimalis Winery, a family-run operation in Pigi, where Iliana—a passionate member of the family—guides you through the estate. Guests often comment on how personal and welcoming Iliana is, sharing her dedication to keeping ancient Ikarian winemaking traditions alive.

The visit includes a guided tour of the winery, exploring both its historic “pirate houses” and production areas. The tour lasts about 2 hours, during which you get a behind-the-scenes look at traditional methods still employed today. We loved the way Iliana explained how she’s working to preserve old recipes, providing a tangible link to Ikaria’s past. Her storytelling makes the experience more than just wine tasting—it’s about understanding a way of life.

The tasting session at Karimalis features her best wines, paired with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Multiple reviewers note that her wines are flavorful and authentic, reflecting the island’s culinary heritage. One guest mentioned, “The view from the winery and the wine itself made this a truly memorable moment.”

Scenic Drive and Second Winery: Tsantiris

After the first tasting, you’ll hop back into the van for a 45-minute scenic ride to Tsantiris Winery. The drive itself deserves mention: winding roads lined with lush greenery and panoramic vistas make it a visual treat.

At Tsantiris, the tour expands into a fuller exploration of the winery’s operation, with a guided walk through the vineyards and production areas. Visitors find it fascinating to see how the local grapes are cultivated and processed. The tasting at Tsantiris is more relaxed, with three different wines served at the bar, giving you time to chat and savor the flavors. Reviewers often highlight the generous pours and the quality of the wines, which are a perfect showcase of Ikaria’s terroir.

The free time at the winery’s bar allows you to linger, enjoy more wine if desired, and take in the sweeping views. The highlight for many is the sunset view—a spectacle of orange and pink hues reflecting off the sea, crowned by the iconic Begleri wine served in a glass. Several guests mention that this moment alone makes the tour worth every penny, transforming a simple tasting into a postcard-perfect memory.

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Why the Sunset Matters

The Begleri wine, a traditional local specialty, is often paired with the sunset, creating a romantic, almost cinematic scene. This part of the tour is lauded for its stunning natural beauty and the relaxed atmosphere as you toast to the day’s adventures.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking and warm weather.
• Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, and a camera—you’ll want to capture the views.
• The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring and tasting.
• The set pick-up and drop-off points in Evdilos make logistics simple, but note that private pickups outside these locations are not included.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $165 per person, this experience offers an excellent value considering the full day of activities, expert-guided tastings, scenic drives, and sunset views. Compared to other experiences in the region, it provides a well-rounded insight into Ikaria’s wine culture without feeling rushed or superficial.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and many guests appreciate the knowledgeable guide, who enhances the experience with stories and insights. The combination of cultural education, scenic beauty, and delicious wine makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a deeper connection to Ikaria.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience Most?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about local varieties and traditions. It’s also perfect for romantics and sunset lovers wanting a memorable backdrop for their trip. If you’re someone who enjoys small-group, personalized experiences, this will suit you perfectly.

Plus, travelers interested in cultural heritage and scenic drives will find this tour a balanced mix of education and relaxation. Keep in mind that mobility impairments might limit your ability to fully participate, as some walking and standing are involved.

Final Thoughts

This Ikaria wine tour combines authentic family-run wineries, stunning sunset scenery, and insightful storytelling into a memorable day. The opportunity to taste local wines directly from passionate producers gives you a real taste (literally) of the island’s heritage.

The carefully planned itinerary, small group size, and expert guide make it a standout experience for visitors wanting an immersive, relaxed, and visually stunning introduction to Ikaria’s wine culture. The day ends with one of the most beautiful sunsets on the island, leaving you with a warm glow and plenty of stories to share.

In summary, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, scenic, and wine-filled day that captures the spirit of Ikaria, this tour offers genuine value and a truly authentic taste of the island.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Pickup is available from six designated locations in Evdilos. Private pickups from other places are not included, but the provided options are quite convenient.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and casual clothes are best, especially since there’s some walking involved and outdoor exposure.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including drives, tours, tastings, and free time at the wineries.

Can I customize the experience?
The itinerary is fixed, but with small groups, guides often provide personalized insights. Note that the schedule and stops are set by the provider.

Are children allowed?
Infants under 3 can join free of charge, but the experience is mainly suited for adults due to walking and tasting components.

What are the main highlights?
The visit to two family-run wineries, scenic drives, tasting local wines, and the sunset view at Tsantiris Winery are the top draws.

This experience offers a wonderful slice of Ikaria’s culture, scenic beauty, and delicious wines—all within a relaxed, intimate setting that truly respects the island’s traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: