In the Ionian Sea there exists a small private island that in recent times has become one of Greece’s most unusual destinations. It is called Atokos and is located near Ithaca, among the Ionian islands. It is an uninhabited territory by humans, characterized by a mostly rocky coastline, small coves and transparent waters. What makes it famous, however, is not only the landscape and its secluded position, but some very peculiar inhabitants: groups of wild boars that move freely along the shores and reach all the way to the sea.
Photos and videos of the animals have gone viral on social networks, bringing Atokos to the attention of travelers from several countries. The island, once known mainly to those who navigated the Ionian, is today included in the itineraries of numerous boat excursions.
The beach where wild boars enter the water
The main attraction of Atokos is the beach where wild boars are spotted. The animals move along the shore in search of food, rest on the beach and, when temperatures rise, also enter the water to cool off. Their presence has given rise to the informal nickname Piggy Island, now used to promote tours to the island.
The boars seem to have grown accustomed to the presence of people and may approach boats and visitors. According to collected testimonies, some operators even use fruit to lure the animals closer to the vessels. This particular interaction between wildlife and tourists has become the subject of numerous videos shared online.
Atokos also preserves natural features that go beyond the presence of the boars. The Greek island covers an area of about 4.5 square kilometers, with a predominantly mountainous and rugged terrain and reaches a height of 334 meters. The coastline is jagged and features several small coves, sea caves and white pebble beaches. Among the spots used by boats are One House Bay and Cliff Bay, two inlets with particularly clear waters.
The island is also part of the Natura 2000 network, protecting a marine and terrestrial environment characterized by flora and fauna. Although it is private and devoid of a resident population, Atokos is thus not only a curiosity linked to its black pigs, but also a European natural area of interest.
Where Atokos is located and how to get there
Administratively, Atokos belongs to the municipality of Ithaca and is located in the Ionian Sea, about 9 kilometers northeast of Ithaca and southwest of Kastos. It is a small private island owned by the Tsakos Greek shipping family and lacks a populated center or normal tourist infrastructure. There are a few structures, including a small private residence, a well and a chapel dedicated to Saint John, but there are no accommodations or services intended for tourism.
There are no regular ferry connections to Atokos. The island is reachable only by sea, with private boats, yachts, speedboats or by joining organized tourist excursions. Departures can be made from Ithaca, but also from Lefkada and Kefalonia.
The growing notoriety on social media has thus transformed a small private and almost unknown island into an increasingly sought-after stop, especially during the summer season.
