Irakleia hiking tour: Inside the magical Saint Ioannis cave and the mythical Cave of the Cyclops

Go inside one of the largest and most beautiful caves of the Cyclades and get mesmerized by a fairytale decor of stalactites and stalagmites. The hiking trail starts from the village of Panagia and follows a meandering path uphill towards the mountain.

 

During the hike, your local destination angel will enrich your experience with local stories about the island’s landscape, history as well as myths, and traditions while there are high chances to encounter local wildlife such as goats and birds of prey.

 

Our next stop is at the Saint Ioannis Cave and the famous Cave of the Cyclops known from Homer’s Odyssey, which was discovered by a shepherd around 200 years ago. In the first room of the cave was also found an icon of John the Baptism from the iconoclasm period (741-843 AD), which to this day every year a local family keeps in their house to protect.

 

A maze of geological formations such as stalactites and stalagmites embellish the cave dazzling visitors with their beauty. On our way back, to the top of the hill, we’ll make a stop to admire the breathtaking sea view and have a filling picnic surrounded by nature. Our experience will end back to Panagia where we’ll take a short tour around the village.