The ‘mythical’ Greek island with otherworldly beaches where locals live to be 100

But as Ithaca — the island at the centre of The Odyssey — gets its flowers, there’s another Greek island shrouded in even more mystery. In other words, a place where people live unusually long and healthy lives, often making it to 100 or more. Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine, is said to have helped winemaking thrive on the island. Island cultureIf you really want to experience local life, immerse yourself in Ikaria’s villages and cultural events. Throughout the island, villages host ‘Panagiria,’ traditional feast days that celebrate the Saints’ name days and other religious holidays.