Lefkada is the island that enchants every visitor. The deep blue Ionian waters, the shiny sun and the sweet moonlight create the ideal scenery for unforgettable holidays. The idyllic island of Lefkada belongs to the complex of the Ionian islands.
It is the only Ionian island you can reach by car, also known as the “land-rubber” island. It is the fourth largest Ionian island, measuring 302,5 sq. km in size. Located just 100 meters from Akarnania on the mainland, it is connected to it via a bridge. Lefkada island along with Meganisi, Kalamos, Kasto, Scorpio, Madouri, Scorpidi, Thilia, Sparti and Kythro, consists of the municipality of Lefkada. Lefkada town is the capital, and it is divided into six municipals and two communities.
It was the love of Aristotle Onassis towards Lefkada that gave it international fame. It is not accidental that Onassis chose this island to create his personal paradise. Scorpios, Onassis’ island, which hosted some of the most important personalities of the international jet set, is right across Nydri. Lefkada is also the birthplace of the great poets Aristotle Valaoritis and Angelos Sikelianos.
Touring around the island can be a real surprise for every visitor. Porto Katsiki, Kathisma, Agios Nikitas, Nydri, Pefkoulia, Mylos, Skala Gialou, Agiofilli and Poros offer some magical beaches with crystal clear waters. You will feel instantly at home, as the traditional villages and their people welcome you at once.
The town of Lefkada is both modern and traditional. The historic centre is ideal for long walks where the labyrinthine narrow paths and historic buildings take you back to past times. The whole island is a natural site. Some places worth visiting are the coastal settlements and the hilly villages. There are many rare species of birds, flowers and mammals that live in the island’s mountains. The natural setting of waterfalls and caves create a very picturesque landscape for visitors to the island.
The island is famous for the needlework by the women in Karya. Don’t miss buying one and decorating your house. Whilst in Lefkada you should try the local cuisine, which is often based on local products. It will leave you with the best of impressions.
In the taverns all around the island, you will taste bourdeto, bakaliaros, maridopita, frigadeli and various kinds of home-cooked pies. There are lots of great places where you can dine and enjoy a range of authentic cuisine.
Lefkada is an island that offers much to visitors and provides the complete “Greek Island experience”. Schedule your holidays on this Ionian island and enjoy the warm hospitality. You will find a huge range of accommodation and hotels in Lefkada with something for every traveller’s budget or requirements. From luxury hotels and villas to apartments and studios, you will easily find the exact type of accommodation for your needs.
Activities in Lefkada
As well as being one of the most picturesque and relaxing islands in the Ionian, Lefkada is also the perfect vacation destination for those who enjoy various activities and water sports.
It is perfectly located to provide some of the best conditions for kite and windsurfing in the country, as well as for other sports and activities. The beach close to Fryni is perfect for those who enjoy windsurfing and kite surfing and the island attracts huge numbers of visitors each year who come here to enjoy the perfect settings for this sport.
Lefkada is a very rich holiday destination in terms and beauty and vegetation, and trekking and walking holidays are very popular on the island. There are many paths that one can follow that will take you on an inspiring journey, where you will see and experience the natural beauty and inspiring landscapes of the island. The months of spring are ideal for those who want to simply enjoy walking around the island and enjoying the impressive vistas and scenery.
One popular activity in Lefkada is horse-riding. Visitors can enjoy a horseback excursion around the island, which is a highly unique way to explore and appreciate the charm and beauty that the island has to offer.
Culture in Lefkada
During your visit to Lefkada, you will have the chance to attend several events, cultural and others. Some of the festivals that take place here include the Speech and Art Celebrations (1955), and International Folklore Festival (1962). Other events and local celebrations that take place here include theatre, ballet performances, concerts, music, art exhibitions, conferences, moonlight boat walks, poetry nights and others.
The city streets are filled with dancers from all over the world, with the intention to share their culture and traditions. As well as the city of Lefkada there are events that take place throughout the island, such as the wedding of Lefkada, the wine festivals, religious events, and craft-related festivals and the representation of the local ceramics manufacturing.
