Lefkada is an island located in the Ionian sea off the west coast of Greece. It is situated very close to the mainland and so is accessible via a causeway and floating bridge.
TYPES OF HOLIDAYS
The Greek islands are extremely popular holiday destinations for people all over Europe, and Lefkada is no exception. Flight times from the UK are typically 2-3 hours so even a trip for a long weekend would be suitable.
As there is so much to see and do in and around Lefkada, many people choose to have their main holiday and stay from one to two weeks. The range of accommodation available reflects this, with budget apartments for families and younger holiday makers, as well as all inclusive resorts.
BEST TIME TO GO
Lefkada enjoys a Mediterranean climate and so remains fairly mild all year round. However, the winter months of November to April can be fairly cool and wet, with the summer months being warm and sunny.
This means the island virtually closes down in winter, although some accommodation is still open if you would still like to visit. Summer is the best time to visit to experience the best of the weather and range of accommodation, as well as tourist spots.
SIGHTS TO SEE
The island of Lefkada is fairly small and so all the main sights to see are within easy driving distance.
Lefkada Town itself is the main centre of the island and is located by the connecting bridge to the mainland. Here you can wander through the winding narrow streets lined by very old buildings, and browse through the mass of shops whether it is the fishmongers selling locally caught seafood in the centre of town, to the array of bars and restaurants around the North Harbour, there is something to tempt everybody.
There are also many beautiful old churches and several abandoned windmills to be seen dotted among the hills, so hiring a car is the best way to explore this variety of sights.
The Santa Maura Fortress, just outside Lefkada Town, is an impressive castle guarding the entrance to the island and dates from around 1300.
And in Dragano you will find an pre-industrial olive factory that was run entirely with horse power.
Lefkada is also ideally located for exploring some of the nearby islands.
Nearby Kefalonia is a large island and was the setting for the film 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin'. The ferry from the south of Lefkada will take you to the pretty fishing village of Fiskardo on the north of the island.
You can also take a brisk twenty minute ferry to the island of Meganisi. Here there are plenty of bars and cafes to be explored in one of the many fishing villages, and the island is also favoured for its hiking and biking trails.
ACTIVITIES
As Lefkada and Meganisi are very hilly, they are popular with those of you that enjoy hiking or cycling. The stunning scenery is well worth any trek you may embark on.
For lovers of water sports, most beaches offer several activities. Head to Vassiliki beach for the best wind surfing. Situated in a beautiful bay, wind surfers are aided by the strong afternoon breeze, known as 'Eric'.
BEACHES
A short drive south from Lefkada Town is the pretty beach of Pefkoulia, just outside the village of Aghios Nikitas. There is ample car parking if you are hiring a car, and there are two tavernas serving refreshments.
To the south of the village is Milos Beach, which is a secluded beach with spectacular views. This is accessible only by a steep, rocky footpath so would not be suitable for those who have trouble getting around. There are also no facilities so make sure you bring plenty of food, drink and sunscreen!
Vassiliki Beach on the south of the island is of course a mecca for wind surfers.
And Porto Katsiki is becoming much more popular as it was once only accessible by a dirt road and many steps. Now it is much easier to get to and is well worth it for its spectacular views. The beach itself is nestled at the bottom of sheer cliffs, and the 'dragon's head' at the southern end is quite a sight to behold.
NIGHTLIFE
Lefkada Town has a wealth of restaurants and bars located in the North Harbour part of town, which also boasts beautiful views over the Ionian Sea. The speciality on most menus is locally caught fresh fish of the day.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation is varied in Lefkada, ranging from budget apartments to luxury resorts.
Sands Hotel in Nidri provides good value, clean and comfortable accommodation in the setting of this beautiful fishing village. There is a bar and restaurant and Greek dancing once a week!
The Porto Galini Resort and Spa in Nikiana is 12km from Lefkada Town and boasts a seafront location with private beach, as well as a wellbeing centre offering a range of treatments. There are also two indoor swimming pools, two outdoor pools and three tennis courts.
Hotel Meganissi is ideally located for access to the wide array of wildlife in the area. The hotel features a bar, restaurant and outdoor swimming pool, and is right next to Vathy Harbour where you can eat and drink with a view across the water.
And the Lefko Hotel and Apartments in Nidri provides accommodation for any type of holiday maker. Located just 50m from the beach, the hotel also includes an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi as well as a bar serving snacks and drinks. The bars and restaurants of central Nidri are just 200m away.