THE GOOD LIFE

OUR ROOTS

Ancestral wisdom. A way of life.
The Ikarian spirit is not a concept—it is lived.

At the Retreat Ikaria, wellness is not something to be sought but something remembered. It is found in the rhythm of the everyday; in shared meals, in deep rest, in laughter, and in walking the land with purpose. Rooted in Zoe’s ancestral heritage and Ermina’s path of healing, our retreat is a return to simplicity, presence, and connection.

Guided by the timeless Ikarian way where time stretches, stress dissolves, and life is savoured, we offer not just a retreat, but a homecoming. Every detail honours nature, tradition, and the original meaning of well-being: a life lived in harmony with self, others, and the earth.

OUR INSPIRATION

&

VISION

Born from connection. Rooted in authenticity.

The Original Retreat Ikaria was created through a shared vision between Zoe and Ermina—a meeting of ancestral wisdom and modern healing, of deep roots and open hearts.

Our inspiration lies in the belief that true wellness is not added on, it’s uncovered. It lives in simplicity, in presence, and in living slowly, with intention.

We are not a resort, we are a rhythm. A place where guests are invited to pause, breathe, and remember what truly nourishes them.

Our vision is shaped by the Ikarian way of life: unhurried, grounded, and full of meaning. We believe that when everything unnecessary falls away, what remains is real - connection, care, and the freedom to simply be.

Our Values

  • Simplicity

    In Ikaria, less isn’t lacking — it’s freeing. Life is lived gently, without excess, where the beauty lies in the basics.

  • Connection

    Community, conversation, and shared meals form the heartbeat of Ikarian life. No one is alone here.

  • Rhythm

    Life moves in tune with nature. Rest when the sun is high, rise with purpose, and dance when the stars come out.

  • Presence

    There is no rush. Here, time expands. The focus is not on doing more, but on being fully where you are.

Our Principles

Eat from the earth
Seasonal, plant-forward, locally grown — food is slow, simple, and deeply nourishing.

Live with purpose
Whether tending the land or sharing stories, Ikarians live with meaning beyond productivity.

Nap without guilt
Rest is sacred. The midday nap isn’t laziness; it’s wisdom passed down through generations.

Embrace the unhurried
There is no clock watching. What matters is depth, not speed.

Honor tradition
Ancient rhythms, herbal wisdom, folk practices — all passed down and still alive.

Trust in nature
From wild herbs to thermal springs, nature is healer, teacher, and home.

Freedom in daily living
Ikarians live life on their own terms—without rigid schedules, roles, or social pressures. There is room to be yourself, to change your rhythm, and to follow what feels right.

Celebrate often
Life is marked by music, dance, and gathering. The panigiri is not a party — it's a philosophy.

Move naturally
Walking, gardening, dancing, swimming — movement is built into daily life, not scheduled.

Age without fear
Elders are respected, active, and included — age is embraced, not hidden.