The beautiful little Greek island that's closer to Turkey than mainland

A beautiful Greek island famous for its residents' longevity is closer to than to the mainland. Ikaria is a in the Aegean Sea, 10 miles southwest of the island of Samos, next to Turkey. According to tradition, it derives its name from Icarus in mythology, who was believed to have fallen into the sea nearby when his wax wings melted in the sun and was buried on the island.

Visitors can explore its amazing natural landscape and including Seychelles, Mesakti, Nas and Livadi, hike through its mountains, and discover picturesque including Armenistis, Manganitis and Karkinagri. Many parts of the island, especially the ravines, are covered in shrubbery, making the landscape lush green.

Aside from domestic and domesticated species such as goats, small wild animals such as martens, European otters, jumping spiders, and green toads can be found.

Ikaria has become famous worldwide for the longevity of its inhabitants. One in three make it to their 90s.

It has been dubbed a Blue Zone, a region where people live longer than average. A combination of factors explains it, including geography, culture, diet, lifestyle, and outlook.

They enjoy strong red wine, late-night domino games, and a relaxed pace of life that ignores clocks. Clean air, warm breezes, and rugged terrain draw them outdoors into an active lifestyle.

National Geographic named it one of the best Greek islands to visit, alongside Lesbos, Karpathos, Lefkada and Nisyros.

The magazine said that during the summer months, "Panagiria" the island's saints' day festivals happen almost daily in different villages.

"Fuelled by the island's heady natural wine, they involve all ages dancing in unison together - placing their hands on each other's shoulders and spiralling in time to traditional violins. When you're partying until dawn, it can be easy to lose all track of time."

Ikaria has a tradition of producing strong red wine, which is referenced in Homer's Odyssey, giving strength to soldiers preparing for battle. It is also believed Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, was born on the island and that his cult was active on the island in ancient times.

Much of the locally produced wine is consumed young and in the summertime at the numerous Saints' Day festivals that take place around the island.

Ikaria has a small airport with flights to and from Athens. It also sits on busy ferry routes leading to mainland ports in the north, as well as to the Dodecanese Islands.