Lefkada (also spelled Lefkas) is a stunning island in the Ionian Sea, known for its dramatic cliffs, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters. Unlike many other Greek islands, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a small floating bridge, making it easily accessible by car. It is a paradise for nature lovers, beachgoers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of scenic beauty, traditional villages, and vibrant coastal towns.
Here’s an in-depth overview of Lefkada:
1. Location and Geography
- Location: Lefkada is part of the Ionian Islands, located just off the western coast of mainland Greece, between the islands of Corfu and Kefalonia. It is connected to the mainland by a 50-meter long floating bridge, which makes it one of the few Greek islands accessible by road.
- Geography: The island is characterized by its diverse landscape, ranging from rugged mountains and lush forests to fertile plains and dramatic coastal cliffs. Lefkada is particularly famous for its beaches, often considered some of the most beautiful in Greece and Europe.
2. Beaches
Lefkada is renowned for its world-class beaches, with stunning white sand or pebbles and azure waters. Some of the most famous ones include:
a. Porto Katsiki
- Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Porto Katsiki is famous for its white cliffs that plunge into bright blue waters. The beach is reached via a steep set of steps, and its stunning views make it a favorite for photography and relaxation.
b. Egremni Beach
- Located on the southwestern coast, Egremni is a long, secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. It was affected by an earthquake in 2015, but restoration efforts have since made it accessible again.
c. Kathisma Beach
- Kathisma is a more easily accessible beach, with golden sand and turquoise waters. It is popular among tourists and has a variety of beach bars, sunbeds, and water sports facilities.
d. Mylos Beach
- A bit more remote, Mylos Beach is located near the village of Agios Nikitas. It’s less developed than Kathisma or Porto Katsiki, making it ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
3. Towns and Villages
Lefkada is home to charming villages and vibrant towns, each offering a unique glimpse into island life:
a. Lefkada Town (Chora)
- The island’s capital, Lefkada Town, is a lively port town with colorful houses, narrow streets, and a mix of Venetian, French, and Ottoman architecture. It serves as the cultural and administrative hub of the island.
- Sights: The Castle of Agia Mavra, a 14th-century Venetian fort near the entrance to the island, is one of its most important historical sites. The town also features museums, churches, and plenty of shops, tavernas, and bars along the waterfront.
b. Nidri
- Nidri is the main tourist resort on the island, located on the east coast. It’s a lively town with a bustling marina, numerous restaurants, cafés, and bars. Nidri is a great base for boat tours to nearby islands like Meganisi, Skorpios (the private island of the Onassis family), and other islets.
c. Agios Nikitas
- A traditional fishing village on the west coast, Agios Nikitas is known for its quaint, picturesque atmosphere and proximity to beautiful beaches. The village is car-free, making it perfect for a peaceful stroll or relaxing in a beachfront taverna.
d. Vassiliki
- Located in the southern part of Lefkada, Vassiliki is famous for windsurfing and sailing due to its favorable wind conditions. The town has a laid-back, friendly vibe, and its harbor is a hub for yacht charters and sailing tours.
4. Nature and Outdoor Activities
Lefkada is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering numerous activities that take advantage of its varied landscape:
a. Windsurfing and Kitesurfing
- Vassiliki Bay is one of the top windsurfing spots in Europe, thanks to the reliable afternoon winds known as “Eric.” The bay is popular with both beginners and experienced windsurfers.
- Agios Ioannis Beach, near Lefkada Town, is a hotspot for kitesurfing, with ideal wind conditions throughout the summer.
b. Sailing and Boat Tours
- Lefkada is a favorite destination for sailors, and its calm waters, numerous islets, and hidden coves make it an ideal sailing base. Day trips by boat to nearby islands like Meganisi, Kalamos, and the private island of Skorpios are popular among visitors.
c. Hiking
- The island’s interior is mountainous, offering excellent hiking trails that wind through traditional villages, forests, and olive groves. Some trails lead to hidden waterfalls, like the Dimosari Waterfalls, located near Nidri.
d. Paragliding
- The dramatic cliffs of Lefkada provide the perfect setting for paragliding, with Kathisma Beach being a popular launch point. Paragliders can enjoy breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and the island’s rugged coastline.
e. Cycling
- The flat coastal roads and the hilly inland terrain make Lefkada ideal for cycling enthusiasts. You can explore traditional villages, scenic viewpoints, and quiet beaches by bike.
5. Culture and History
- Lefkada has a long and storied history, dating back to antiquity. The island has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Corinthians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans, each leaving their mark on its architecture and culture.
a. Ancient Ruins
- Ancient Lefkada: Near Nidri, archaeological remains suggest that Lefkada was once part of the ancient kingdom of Odysseus. Some believe that Lefkada could have been the real Ithaca, the home of the legendary Greek hero.
b. Monasteries and Churches
- Lefkada is home to several historic monasteries and churches, including the Monastery of Faneromeni, the island’s most important religious site. Located on a hill overlooking Lefkada Town, it offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
c. Festivals
- The island hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the International Folklore Festival and Lefkada Music Festival, which celebrate music, dance, and the arts.
6. Cuisine
Lefkada’s cuisine is a delicious mix of traditional Ionian flavors, local ingredients, and fresh seafood. Some local specialties include:
- Savoro: A dish made with fish cooked in vinegar, garlic, rosemary, and raisins.
- Lentils from Eglouvi: The village of Eglouvi, located in the mountains, is famous for its lentils, considered among the best in Greece. Lentils are often prepared as a hearty soup.
- Riganada: A simple but flavorful dish of toasted bread topped with oregano, olive oil, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Lefkada Salami: The island produces a special type of salami, made with a unique blend of spices and air-dried to perfection.
- Frigadeli: Grilled skewers of seasoned pork, a popular street food on the island.
7. Accessibility
- Lefkada is unique in that it can be easily reached from mainland Greece via a floating bridge, which connects the island to the region of Aetolia-Acarnania. This makes Lefkada accessible by car without the need for a ferry, a rare convenience among Greek islands.
- Air Travel: The nearest airport is Aktion National Airport in Preveza, about 20 kilometers from Lefkada. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, especially during the summer season.
- Ferries: From Vassiliki, ferries connect Lefkada to the nearby islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca, making it easy to explore other Ionian islands.
Why Visit Lefkada?
- Breathtaking Beaches: Lefkada is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Greece, with crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and dramatic backdrops of cliffs and greenery.
- Outdoor Activities: Whether you’re into windsurfing, paragliding, hiking, or sailing, Lefkada offers a range of activities to suit adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts.
- Accessibility: The floating bridge connecting Lefkada to mainland Greece makes it easy to reach without needing a ferry, which is a major plus for those who want the flexibility of driving.
- Authentic Villages: The island’s inland villages retain their traditional charm, offering visitors a glimpse of authentic Greek island life.
- Variety: Lefkada strikes the perfect balance between vibrant tourist resorts and quiet, remote areas, making it suitable for all types of travelers, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences.
In summary, Lefkada is a unique Ionian island known for its stunning natural beauty, with some of the best beaches in Greece, excellent opportunities for outdoor activities, and a perfect mix of culture and history,