LEFKADA

The island at the heart of the Ionian Sea

The beauty of Lefkada: Beaches

The island’s warm Mediterranean climate make Lefkada an ideal destination for those wishing to enjoy the sun and the countryside. The best time to visit Lefkada is from late spring to early February, when temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees and the sea is warm enough to swim in. 

With more than 25 impressive beaches, each with its own unique character, visitors can truly find whatever they are looking for. The coastal strip at the west of the island hosts some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Greece. Among them is the much-photographed Porto Katsiki at the northwest coastline of the island and accessible only by a steep staircase leading to turquoise waters and a beach of fine white pebbles. The effort is nevertheless worth it, because visitors are rewarded with an amazing view of the sea and the surrounding cliffs. Egremni beach is also a popular option, accessible only by boat or through a long flight of stairs, yet its crystal waters make it a favorite spot for visitors.

Kathisma beach, featuring a two-kilometer strip of golden sands and a stunning view, is also worth a visit. Visitors can relax on sunbeds, or under umbrellas, or engage in sea sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. Mylos beach is the island’s hidden jewel, accessible by boat only, although its turquoise waters and surrounding cliffs offer a unique and breathtaking view.

The allure of Lefkada: Villages

The island of Lefkada is home to many traditional villages where visitors can glimpse the rich history and culture of the island. The charming village of Vasiliki is located at the south edge of Lefkada and is a popular spot for windsurfing and sea sports enthusiasts. At the village’s small harbor, visitors can catch sight of the fresh catches of the day and relax in seaside restaurants and bars.

Karya is a mountainside village located at the heart of the island that you ought to visit. This village is famous for its masterfully crafted lacework and traditional embroideries and weaves. Visitors will also have the opportunity to taste delicious local dishes, such as the famed “kokoropita” (rooster meat pie).

Nydri, at the east coast of Lefkada, is also a popular tourist destination, with a buzzing nightlife, bars, restaurants, and clubs that stay open until the early morning hours. Nydri is also a starting point for boat excursions to nearby islands, such as Scorpios (the private island of Onassis family) and Meganisi, a small island with a relaxed, traditional ambiance.

The spirit of Lefkada: Culture & Landmarks

The island of Lefkada is notable for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its many historical monuments and sites. The ancient city of Nirikos on the southwest coast of Lefkada, whose history goes back to the 4th century B.C., is one of its most important centers. In ancient times, this city was an important trading center and hosted many temples and buildings.

Other important landmarks include the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, situated on a hilltop overlooking the city of Lefkada and presenting a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The monastery was founded in the 17th century and houses a number of important religious relics and objects. It is also imperative that you visit the Castle of Santa Maura, which is the first monument seen by the island’s visitors, on account of its location on the peninsula uniting Lefkada with the region of Acarnania. The castle’s history goes back to the year 1302, and its unusual architecture is the result of various modifications from the Middle Ages and the Ottomans to the period of the Venetian Rule and the arrival of the French and the British. These modifications, however, reveal not only the entire history of the island, but also the influence of different cultures on Lefkada’s development over the centuries. Another special feature of Lefkada is the floating steel bridge that unites Lefkada with the rest of Greece, which we have often seen opening and closing on impressive drone videos.

A part of Lefkada’s allure is its long and vibrant cultural tradition. Its Philharmonic Society is the second oldest in Greece and has its own museum, featuring exhibits that include old music scores and instruments, old musician uniforms, along with an extensive photographic archive of its long history. The task of preserving the island’s valuable culture is also accomplished through the remarkable work of its historical cultural societies, such as the Music and Literary Association “Orpheas”, the Cultural Society of Nidri “Alexandros”, the Musical and Literary Association of Karya, the Folk Dancing Society “Pegasus”, and others.

The adventure of Lefkada: Activities

Besides its astonishing beaches and traditional villages, the island of Lefkada offers a variety of options for those who desire more energetic vacations. The mountainous terrain of Lefkada is ideal for hiking, and there are many trails crossing through picturesque landscapes and offering an amazing view to the sea. If you are a fan of outdoor activities, Lefkada is a veritable playground for seekers of adventure, offering sea sports, hiking, and cycling opportunities. The island is surrounded by crystal blue waters, which make it an ideal destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other sea-related activities. The verdant landscapes and hills of Lefkada also provide the perfect scenery for hiking and cycling. Whether you wish to explore the wild terrain of Mount Skaros, or wander the scenic countryside, there are abundant activity options to enjoy in Lefkada. Visitors can also rent bikes and tour the scenic villages and cities of the island or participate in a sightseeing tour of the vineyards and olive groves.

Sea sports enthusiasts will also discover many activity options, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. In addition, they may also put their diving skills to test and explore the island vibrant sea life.

Aktion National Airport, on the thin strip of land separating Lefkada from the mainland, is yet another popular landmark, due to the low airplane flights over the sea and the steep cliffs surrounding the island. Visiting Lefkada is truly an unforgettable experience.

Another element contributing to the unique landscape of Lefkada is its sublime lagoon, one of the most important wetlands of Greece and a designated site of international importance. This lagoon is home to pelicans and flamingos, which serve to underscore each moment spent in this magical place, and a number of uninhabited small islands, each with own unique history: from Scorpios, which made Greece famous all over the world through the Onassis family, to Madouri (which is the birthplace and home of the poet Aristotelis Valaoritis, and on which the mansion of Valaoritis family still stands to this day) and Sparti, also purchased by Aristotelis Onassis, the island on which the rich shipowner planned to built a second Scorpios for his beloved son Alexandros.

The five senses of Lefaka: a feast for the soul

Lovers of good food will have much to discover in Lefkada, because the island presents a great variety of delicious local recipes. From seafood to traditional Greece recipes, the restaurants of Lefkada have a little something to offer for everyone. Two of the local specialties that you ought to taste is bourdeto, a spicy fish stew and a basic dish of the island’s cuisine, and bakaliaros bianco, the famous delicious codfish dish with its characteristic creamy sauce. Lefkada is also famous for its local wines, therefore visitors should not skip having a taste.

Last but not least, if you are searching for a more spiritual experience, Lefkada also hosts to many beautiful churches and monasteries, such as the monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, one of the island’s most important religious monuments. Visitors can also explore the historical church of Saint Spyridon, built in the 16th century, and regarded as one of the island’s major sites of architectural importance.

Lefkada is a beautiful and diverse island that can offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer to relax in awe-inspiring beaches, explore ancient ruins or just enjoy the tasty local cuisine, Lefkada is the perfect destination for your next vacations. Why wait, then? Book your travel and discover this astonishing island!

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