Introduction
Picture-perfect beaches spring to mind when we think of Lefkada. However, this hospitable island offers much more than just footprint-free beaches. Admire its sights, take a boat trip, enjoy the mild climate and experience the wonderfully romantic atmosphere. Sample the delicious Greek cuisine, try the local wine and soak up the relaxed pace of island life.
A visit to the capital, Lefkada Town, is a must. First established by the Venetians, this traditional yet cosmopolitan town boasts a relaxed and friendly family atmosphere, especially round the main square. The maze of narrow alleys lined by colourful buildings is a true delight to explore on foot. You’ll discover architecture (dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries) of impressive steeples and exquisite temples. A textbook Greek town built on a natural harbour, it is laid-back, peaceful and serene during the hot summer days, then as the sun goes down behind the mountains the town comes alive with traditional tavernas, stylish cocktail bars and dreamy ice cream parlours!
The island offers an array of attractions including historic sites, monasteries and natural beauties. High on the cultural agenda should be a visit to Agia Mavra Castle, a superb fortress built in the 14th century to protect the island against pirate attacks.
The hilly interior is ideal for all sorts of outdoor activities. Keen hikers can head for the mountains of Elati for serenity, breathtaking views and an outstanding natural environment. Other may prefer a stroll or a bike ride along Pefaneromenis Avenue to the Venetian olive grove of Kouzounteli which dates back to the 17th century. Or why not horse ride through the unblemished countryside to enjoy a wealth of rare flora, little water springs, streams, and dilapidated ruins.
Finally, one of the most eye-catching sights is the Cape of Lefkada in the south – locals say Lefkada takes its name from these white chalk cliffs (Lefko meaning white) and it was from here that, as legend has it, the poetess Sappho, driven by love for the unfaithful Phaon, cast herself into the sea. A temple to the ancient god Apollo once stood on this same spot and a lighthouse has since been built from the temple ruins.
Beaches
Lefkada is renowned for its award-winning beaches scattered all around the island. Choose from vast, idyllic fine white sand, sheltered bays of smooth white pebbles, pellucid turquoise water, majestic cliffs that swoop into the sea, backed by tall pine trees emitting that unforgettable natural pine fragrance that lasts in your senses long after you leave the island. For a soul-cleaning swim head to one of the many blue-flagged beaches – Pefkoulia, Egremni, Agiofili, Kathisma and Mylos being some of the best. Experience a breathtaking sunset on the lovely beach of Egremni and be sure to make time for a visit to Porto Katsiki, described by many as ‘a slice of paradise’ and widely considered to be amongst the best beaches in the Mediterranean.
Local cuisine
Lefkada is full of gastronomic surprises!
Enticing fish tavernas across the island serve exquisite fresh fish and seafood dishes. Many village and harbour tavernas offer mezedes or meze, small plates of food served with ouzo. Why not try an authentic local dish like bakaliaros skordalia (battered salted cod with traditional Greek potato and garlic dip) or bourdeto (fish cooked in tomato sauce with onion, garlic and spicy red pepper). Taste the local fish recipe mpourdeto – a typical dish of the Ionian Islands. The flavoursome local lentils of Englouvi – cooked with garlic and oregano to a thick creamy consistency – are a must!
Head to a waterfront taverna and try a glass of one of the Siflogo wines, produced locally since 1994. Siflogo is Greek for blazing passions! Somada is a local soft drink made from barley or almond and orange-flower – typically locals will enjoy this refreshment on their Sunday afternoon stroll.
Karidopita (walnut cake with syrup), Pasteli (honey candy) with almonds and mandolato (nougat) with honey and almonds are to be enjoyed by those with a sweet tooth! Take home a jar of the local delectable thyme-infused honey from one of the many roadside vendors throughout the island.
Local festivities
6th August celebrates Agios Donatos Lentil festival. The extremely rare and delicious Englouvi lentils are cooked in large cauldrons by the village women at the plateau above the village. In the evening after the church service, everybody gets together in the church square where the locals from Englouvi offer bowls of the tasty lentil soup, sardines and free flowing wine – the party continues into the night with Greek music and traditional dancing.
Something a little different to experience is the enactment of a village wedding in Karya held on the evening of the first Sunday in August. Karya is a sleepy traditional village, known for its stone houses and centred on the local kafenio, where you’ll discover traditional embroidery made by women of the village who continue to dress in the regional costume. On this special day, the village comes alive, overflowing with locals enjoying live music and traditional Greek dancing, in hope of preserving old customs and local traditions.
Various religious feasts and cultural events are held throughout the year on Lefkada. One of the most significant being the international Folklore festival, held around the last week of August – the main venue is in Lefkada where you’ll find parades of dancers performing cheerfully, dressed in their traditional costumes, holding their flags and singing songs from around the world.
Island hopping
Island hop to Meganisi, Kefalonia or Ithaca by ferry. Cruise around the island in a private water taxi or take a boat trip from Nidri to peek at the private island of Skorpios, once owned by the billionaire Aristotle Onassis. Liz Taylor, Winston Churchill, dukes, aristocrats and of course, Jackie O are just a few of the many to have joined in the famous parties and celebrations on Skorpios.
Climate
Lefkada enjoys characteristic Mediterranean climate, bright sunshine, blue skies and seldom cloudiness. The prevailing winds make for a welcoming cool breeze. Summer temperatures begin in May and continue through until October – the hottest months being July and August when temperatures can reach 40°C.
The superb weather conditions make Lefkada a top destination for sailing and yachting, as well as wind / kite surfing, particularly around Nidri and at Vasiliki on the southern tip of the island where a katabatic breeze in the early afternoon makes the large bay a dream location for water-sport lovers.
If you love nature and walking, springtime is perfect for meandering through the fields alive with fragrant and colourful flowers. Lefkada is a verdant island – the heartland of the interior blanketed in rich vegetation – and groves of olive, almond, orange and lemon trees dot the beautiful countryside.
