You’ve lazed on the gorgeous beaches of Porto Katsiki, Egremni, Gialos. You’ve grazed on the saucy fish dish, Savoro, local spicy salamis and nougaty Madolato. It’s time to get out and about to discover other aspects of this inspirational Ionian island. From wine-tasting to sailing, Lefkada is a picturesque wonderland for fans of outdoor adventures and exploration. Here are the most unmissable things to do to make your holiday even more memorable.
For Sea Lovers
Mili, Agios Ioannis and Vasiliki are the most popular beaches for windsurfers and kite surfers alike. Sailors chase the winds to the crystalline waters of Prigiponisia near Nydri, where organized sailing schools and a water sports centre offer a wide range of activities to boot. National Geographic ranked Lefkada among the 3 best destinations for sailing. Organised diving centres operate in Nikiana, Vasiliki and Nydri. Here, you can dive if accompanied by licensed divers.
Up in the Air
Those who have not yet dared to soar to the skies while hanging from nothing but parasailing ropes have the chance to finally do so over impressive Kathisma beach with the help of trained instructors.
Down to Earth
Ideal for cyclists is the ride to Gyra or up to the church of Faneromeni, just outside the town. Mountain biking aficionados can enjoy amazing routes inland. Ride through the old Venetian olive grove (Enetikos Eleonas): Northeast of the town, full of century-old olive trees planted in 1684 at the behest of the Venetians during their rule of the island. You’ll find organised biking clubs in the island’s most touristic centres that offer great tips and rent out bikes and all the necessary equipment.
Walk it Out
A large network of scenic paths runs through the hinterland of Lefkada. The easiest is the circular route to Gyra. Many trails exist around the village of Kolivata – the nicest of which leads to the forest of Skara. Down Melissa Gorge over old bridges, past watermills, caves, cool crystal springs. The circular route from Eglouvi to Agios Donatos is also worth exploring. If you prefer hiking with a guide, several good companies organise quality hiking tours on the island.
Cool Runnings
Dimosari Waterfalls: 4 km from the coast, near popular Nydri, discover the gorgeous waterfalls of Dimosari. Access is easy and it takes about 15 minute run or 25 minute hike up the Dimosari gorge through dense vegetation. The first waterfall you’ll encounter is the smallest and forms a small lake, while the next one is larger with a height of about 12 meters, at the base of which is a large rock pool perfect for a cooling swim.
Cheers to That
Lefkada’s wines have been famous since antiquity – they were even mentioned by Pliny the Elder, and Athenaeus in his ‘Deipnosophists‘; accounts. Most vineyards are located on mountainous and semi mountainous slopes and planted with the Barzamino variety, brought to the island by the Venetians. The grape produces high-quality wine with an intense ruby colour. The local Bardea varietal is grown in the remaining vineyards and used in the production of white wines.
No organised wine tours are offered on the island, but you can arrange to visit the wineries of Vertzamo, Lefkaditiki Earth, Slopes of Lefkada, Siflogos, and Karsanikos Oinos. At Lefkas Distillery they also produce ouzo and tsipouro.
Read also:
Sightseeing in Lefkada: Your Comprehensive Guide
Lefkada: Complete guide to the picture-perfect Ionian Island
Lefkada: 10 hotels-retreats on the island of poets
