The language center

The language center has existed since 1995 in the middle of the wild, untouched nature of Ikaria. It offers Greek courses for all learning levels from A1-C2 of the International Framework of Reference. It is a special kind of teaching. And when I say special, I mean the teaching methods and materials, which are quite unconventional. Many cultural and extracurricular activities are integrated into the lessons, such as interviews with the locals in the Kafenion or visits to craft and farm businesses and contact with the relevant experts.

The lesson

The practice-oriented lessons are very personal and the classes are manageable for 2-8 people. 20 hours of lessons during the week, the weekend free for the beach, hikes, excursions, etc. The content is not only aimed at learning the Greek language, but also at gaining a deeper insight into Greek culture. The courses are particularly aimed at foreigners who speak Greek as a foreign language, at Greeks in the diaspora to improve their knowledge of Greek, but also at translators and students of modern and ancient Greek.

Follow-up with Skype

What I find particularly practical for when you’re back at home: the school offers online lessons and further support for its students via Skype. The teachers are all native speakers and have a doctorate in language teaching with extensive work experience in teaching an international audience.

The school

The school is located in Arethousa, a small village in the hills of Ikaria, above Karavostamo. You learn in an absolutely quiet, romantic location in the middle of untouched nature and the view extends into the mountains, as well as the entire north coast of Ikaria and the sea all the way across to the neighboring island of Chios and the Turkish coast. An impressive panorama in the middle of quiet nature. An ideal place for learning. The school organizes daily transfers to the beach so that swimming is not neglected.

You can find a review and many photos of Kirsten here.

Accommodation

The school complex includes small, cozy bungalows with bathrooms and kitchenettes. There are bright multi-bed rooms furnished in a Mediterranean style with 2-3 beds. There is also the option to book a double or single room at the school. If you prefer to stay on the coast, you can get support from the school to book a hotel in Kerame.

Data and costs

For further information, exact dates and prices, please use this contact form.
Write your message directly to the Ikaria Language Center, please in English. They are happy to support you!

Special courses

• April: during the Easter festivities with participation in the largest traditional church festival in the Orthodox calendar
• May: Photography and language, a photo workshop and learning Greek along the way in the untouched nature of Ikaria
• November: Learn Greek and harvest olives, experience the everyday life of the Ikariotes