Lefkada is an island of rare natural beauty, with a great cultural tradition, and a rich cuisine. Its location and the fact that it is connected to mainland Greece via a floating bridge make it an extremely popular destination, even for day trips from neighbouring Aetolia-Acarnania.
The imposing castle of Agia Mavra, the symbol of the island, stands in Lefkada’s entrance, with the interventions, additions, and reinforcements to its structure reveal its long and turbulent history. The monument, whose construction started around 1300 and resulted in a walled city and capital of the island in the early 15th century, prepares the visitor for the powerful experience that will follow.
Lefkada, with its rich cultural heritage, is becoming an attraction not only for foreign tourists, but also for visitors from neighbouring areas due to its location. Literature and Art Festivals, an International Folklore Festival, Gastronomy Festivals, the “Varkarola” (a boat parade with bands playing traditional music), a Half Marathon and many more events are organized every year throughout Lefkada, introducing visitors to the customs and traditions of the island.
The island has a rare natural beauty and is ideal for hiking, water sports, swimming in crystal clear waters, festivals, and celebrations with the locals. Its beaches satisfy every preference: deep and rough waters; shallower, organised beaches; isolated and difficult to reach ones; small bays for couples; golden sandy beaches for families with children.
The cuisine of Lefkada is rich and combines the traditional cooking of mainland Greece with the gastronomy influences of the Venetian rule. The abundance of local products allows for great variation and no visitor will leave unsatisfied. The island’s top product is the world-famous Eglouvi lentils, which are on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The cheerful, friendly people of Lefkada will welcome you to their land and share with you its joys and gifts.
Where to swim
Pefkoulia: Easily accessible large sandy beach. Clear waters with stones and seaweed in some parts of the seabed. It’s serviced, with a beach bar and sunbeds, but there is plenty of free space to set up your own umbrella, but if you don’t have one you can find a shady spot under the trees that are quite close to the sea. Parking is relatively easy, but you’d better get there early to avoid any problems.
Milos: Access is either by boat from Agios Nikitas, or after 20-minute hike on the path that starts from the main pedestrian street of the village. If you choose the path, you will need to have stamina because it goes through a wooded hill. The beach is relatively quiet, although in recent years it’s become increasingly popular. A wide beach, with clear waters, and fine sand with pebbles. It’s not serviced, so you’ll need to bring essentials with you.
Kathisma: A busy, developed beach, with white sand, pebbles and blue-green waters. It is one of the best beaches in Lefkada and is very popular with younger crowds. Easily accessible, fully serviced with umbrellas, sunbeds, beach bars, restaurants, taverns, and parking.
Kavalikefta: This beach is located below the village of Kalamitsi and is not so well-known. It’s unique and has a wild beauty, since the water is scattered with large rocks. There is a small canteen, a parking area, umbrellas, and sunbeds. The waters are clean, and the beach is covered in white pebbles. The large rocks are ideal for diving, taking photographs, sunbathing and climbing.
Megali Petra: Right next to the beach of Kavalikefta, access to Megali Petra is equally difficult on the narrow path that starts from Kalamitsi and leads to this beach. It combines sand and pebbles and has clear waters. Scattered rocks and one large rock add a wild touch to the beauty of this beach. It is not serviced, so make sure you have the necessary supplies.
Agios Nikitas: One of the most cosmopolitan beaches on the island, with clear waters. There are taverns and cafés, but you won’t find sunbeds and umbrellas, so you’ll need to make sure you have your own umbrella.
Gialos: The route to Gialos is relatively easy and the beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, parking, cafés, and canteens. The beach is long, which helps to avoid crowds for those who want more privacy. Sandy but also with pebbles on the shore, and rocks in the sea bottom, that are not sharp.
Egremni: The world-famous, Egremni, is more than 2 kilometres long with sand and fine pebbles. It owes its name to the magnificent rocks that surround it and offer a unique spectacle. It is serviced, but its length offers a very large area for those who want to set up their own umbrella, away from the crowds. Access is not easy, since you must leave the car, walk more than 2km and then go down a staircase with too many steps that ends up on the beach. And don’t forget you’ll have to climb back up when it’s time to leave.
Porto Katsiki: Its exotic, clear waters combined with the steep, vertical cliffs that frame it have made it famous around the world. It is usually packed with people at all hours of the day. To get to this beach too, you’ll have to go down several steps. There are parking lots at the top of the cliffs, but they fill up quickly. The beach is also accessible by boat. The beach is not serviced, so you should bring everything you need before you set off.
What to do
Lefkada has a rich cultural tradition, and this is reflected in the monuments, museums and exhibits, which cover the entire history of the island. A visit to any of the exhibition halls will reveal every historical aspect of the place. Angelos Sikelianos Museum, Historical Centre of Lafcadio Hearn (national poet of Japan), Orpheus Folklore Museum, Old Objects Exhibition, Museum of the International Folklore Festival Memorabilia Exhibition, Faneromeni Ecclesiastical Museum, etc., both as a whole and each one separately, are waiting to introduce you to the traditional life in beautiful Lefkada. However, if you are pressed for time, you can visit the following places and attend a local festival:
Agia Mavra Castle: You will see it dominating the entrance of Lefkada, near Ammoglossa. The impressive castle of Agia Mavra, a model of medieval fortification architecture, protected the capital from the beginning of the 14th century until 1684. Inside the fortress, there are the ruins of Venetian buildings –barracks, ammunition depots, administration buildings, a hospital, and houses– which were altered during the period of the British rule between 1810 and 1864. To the east of the castle is the church of Agia Mavra, from which the castle takes its name. (tel.: 0030 2645 026576)
Archaeological Museum of Lefkada: It contains the cultural treasures of Lefkada and presents the long evolution of the island. The exhibits come from the burial mounds at Steno and Skaros in Nidri, from the cave Chirospilia in Evgiro, from the cemeteries of the ancient city of Lefkada, as well as from various other sites. (Ang. Sikelianou & N. Svoronou, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 26450 21635).
Phonograph, Radio, and Tradition Museum: You will find the museum in the town of Lefkada, near the central square. It is filled with phonographs, recorders, records, rare utensils, decorations, coins, seals, paintings and photographs, indicative of the traditional, everyday life of Lefkada. (Lefkada, Centre, tel.: 0030 699 749 3010)
Folklore Museum: The Folklore Museum of the Orpheus Music and Philology Club is located behind the central square of Lefkada. It hosts more than 1.000 utilitarian objects of the island’s rural life, tools, utensils, traditional costumes, embroideries, etc. It also includes several urban exhibits, as well as tools of old trades. (Stefanitsi 2, Lefkada, open every day except Mondays and in the winter only on Sundays, tel.: 0030 2645 022778)
Giorti Fakis (Lentil Festival): If you find yourself on the island in early August, don’t miss the Lentil Festival that takes place every year in the chapel of Agios Donatos on August 6. The locals cook the famous lentils in large cauldrons and offer it to visitors generously and for free, along with olives, pickles, peppers, anchovies, wine, and rustic dishes. Music, fun dancing, the best way to get to know the island.
Activities
If you like physical exercise and action, Lefkada offers many options. You can go hiking, do various water sports, and also go diving. All over the island, there are equipment rental shops, as well as special instructors to guide you and allow you to enjoy all sports safely (www.periplous.eu, www.watersportsinlefkada.gr, www.human-sports.com). It is no coincidence that National Geographic magazine has ranked Lefkada among the 3 best destinations for sailing, ideal for those at beginner level.
However, if you are not particularly fond of water sports, you can tour the island at the following points of natural beauty:
Melissa Gorge: If you like hiking, here you can walk among old bridges, watermills, caves, crystal clear springs, a stream whose rocks have been shaped by water and time, and rich flora and fauna. The torrent used to supply water to the old watermills that still exist today, and which you’ll come across en route. The Melissa gorge is easily accessible even to inexperienced hikers and includes three trails, each of unique beauty.
Dimosari Waterfalls: Located 4 km from the sea, near the most touristic part of the island, Nidri, but the landscape is extremely peaceful. It is one of the most important natural attractions on the island. Access is easy and it takes about 20 minutes of hiking in the Dimosari gorge where the vegetation is dense. 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, which also forms a lake.
Venetian olive grove (Enetikos Eleonas): An environmental monument located northeast of the town of Lefkada, it consists of century-old olive trees planted in 1684 at the instigation of the Venetians during their rule of the island.
Where to Stay
Pavezzo Country Retreat: A complex of restored 19th century houses, built on a hillside in the village of Katouna. It is about 7 km from the town of Lefkada. Each house is different, furnished with antiques, four-poster beds, engravings, and everyday objects from the last century. (Katouna, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 071782, www.pavezzo.gr)
Ionian Blue: Located about 6 km from Nidri, the hotel offers villas, suites and spacious rooms with a balcony. It has a spa including an indoor pool, hammam, sauna, massage room, hydrotherapy facilities, manicure – pedicure services and a gym, with a main pool, 14 private pools and an all-day lounge bar (Nikiana, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 26450 29029, www.ionianblue.gr).
Azur Retreat: This property is located in Meganisi and features suites. It offers wellness services and experiences, including yoga sessions at an open-air gym. It also has a spa, a large swimming pool and a restaurant-bar (Vathi, Meganisi, tel.: 0030 2645 200966 www.azurretreat.com).
Villa Veneziano: Located within 2,000m² grounds near Nidri, across from the famous island of Scorpios, it has been designed based on Venetian architecture, with influences from the Byzantine tradition. It has 5 suites that can accommodate up to 12 people. The common areas, such as the dining room, kitchen and living room are decorated with works of art. (Perigiali, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 26450 92313, www.villaveneziano.com)
Porto Galini: This hotel is set in a wooded area that ends at a secluded beach. It has 2 indoor pools, 2 outdoor pools, 3 children’s pools, tennis courts, 3 restaurants, a full gym, and a spa. (Nikiana, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 093290, www.portogalini.gr)
Okeanos Luxury Villas: The property is close to the village of Athani and has 6 villas and 1 mega villa which can accommodate up to 24 people. Each area has a private infinity pool, a pergola, a gazebo for shade, a seating area, sun loungers, umbrellas, an outdoor dining area and a balcony with additional seating area on the second floor. (Athani, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 21 1234 3788, www.okeanosvillas.com)
San Nicolas Hotel Resort: This hotel is located on the south-eastern side of the island, very close to the settlement of Mikros Gialos and overlooks the island of Arkoudi, Ithaki and Kefalonia. Its philosophy is one of discretion and tranquillity and is perfect for those who prefer a holiday in a family atmosphere. It has an Olympic-size swimming pool, a restaurant and two bars. (Mikro Gialos, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 095050, www.sannicolas.gr)
Thomais Boutique Hotel: This hotel is in Episkopos and it is exclusively for adults. It has a restaurant in the roof garden and at the reception they sell handmade marmalade, extra virgin olive oil, Kalamata olives and honey by small producers. (Episkopos, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 071985, www.thomaisboutiquehotel.com)
Eriel Boutique Apartments: Located in the heart of Lefkada town, close to the church of Panagia ton Xenon. Minimalistic apartments, natural materials, fully equipped kitchens, and large windows for plenty of light. (Lefkada Town, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 698 836 6510, www.eriel.gr)
Gastronomic identity
Lefkada has a long gastronomic tradition and a wide range of local products.
Wine: Try the wine of Lefkada. The most popular varieties are white Vardea and red Vertzami, followed by Mavrodafni, Malagouzia, Patrino, etc. There are 5 wineries on the island and wine festivals are held in the villages.
Oil: Olive cultivation is very widespread on the island and the olive oil of Lefkada has become very well known. The most common variety is aprolia or Lefkada lefkolia, while at higher altitudes we can also find mavrolia.
Legumes: Eglouvi lentils are a world-famous variety and several restaurants on the island use them in their dishes. It is a unique product in the world with the seed having been awarded in many exhibitions. A sample of Eglouvi lentils is kept at the UN and in Syria at the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) and they are included on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Their production is lost in the depths of time and the seed remains unaltered. It is 100% organic, as no chemicals or herbicides are used in its cultivation. Another famous legume is lathiri, an organic product, which is grown without pesticides and fertilizers, is easy to cook, and has many beneficial properties.
Honey: The thyme honey of Lefkada is also a well-known product for its quality. The island is also known for its honey derivatives, such as pasteli (sesame and honey bar) and a local mantolato (nougat) with nuts.
Salami and sausages: According to tradition, the island has been producing salami since the time of the Venetian rule, and in the process, they also started making sausage. The quality local meats and other ingredients contribute to the preparation of famous products.
Ladopita: The Lefkadian ladopita is a local dessert, made as a treat at weddings and christenings. You will find it everywhere on the island while in Aetolia-Acarnania, they call it ravani or ladoravani.
Rosoli liqueur: This is a traditional aperitif that can also be used in pastry or cooking. It is a combination of alcohol with citron, fruit and cinnamon with a characteristic aroma and is one of the most popular products that visitors to the island take with them.
Where to eat
Duende: Duende restaurant is part of Crystal Waters Hotel, in Nikiana. Executive chef, Panagiotis Moutsopoulos, has created the menu, experimenting and modernizing older traditional dishes. The menu includes dishes such as ceviche (amberjack fillet marinated in citrus juice, Corfiot kumquat, mango, lime with avocado, sweet potato, tamarisk, chili and coriander), modern Greek salad (variety of cherry tomatoes, watermelon, strawberry, onion, cucumber, capers, olive “soil”, tomato vinaigrette, Evritanian chalafuti cheese mousse, and fresh oregano oil), lemon pie (lemon creme, basil pudding, strawberry compote, almond crumble, strawberry sorbet, finger lime, crispy meringues and strawberry sauce). (Nikiana, Crystal Waters Hotel, tel.: 0030 2645 072383, www.facebook.com/DuendeLefkada)
Ta Kanioria: Family tavern, by the sea, in the seaside settlement of Lygia, five kilometres from the town. Greek traditional cuisine with an Ionian aura and modern touches. The menu includes homemade sourdough bread and dishes such as fresh fish, grilled squid with Eglouvi lentils, fresh tuna fillet with sizzling greens, bourdeto (traditional fish soup), geranium liqueur, etc. (Lygia, tel.: 0030 2645 072229, www.ta-kanioria.business.site)
Kritamos: It is in Vathi, on the harbour., with a fish-based menu that includes all the trends in modern seafood cooking. Raw and marinated, like the Gravlax sea bass scented with aniseed and bergamot dressing, and the sea bream tartare with Mediterranean herbs and lemon marmalade, and classic seafood with a different approach, such as mussels saganaki with hot pepper, ouzo, fresh basil, feta cheese and the fresh fried squid with mayonnaise dip, capers and green olives. The wine list consisting of labels from renowned Greek vineyards will complement your meal. (Vathi, Meganisi, tel.: 0030 2645 051310, www.kritamos-restaurant.gr)
Amente: Amente restaurant is located in Drimonas, at an altitude of 520 metres. Chef Nikos Prokopis’ menu is based on Mediterranean cuisine, where the international cuisine meets the local. Among other dishes you’ll find grilled calamari, with spicy feta cheese dip, octopus with black hummus, and sweet cream of amarena cherries and bitter almond mousse for dessert. The wine list includes more than 50 labels. (Drimonas, tel.: 0030 697 746 1415, www.amente.gr)
Akrotirion Lefkatas: This restaurant is located in the village of Athani and stretches on two levels with simple decoration. The restaurant’s cuisine focuses on the products of the Lefkadian land, combining the traditional with the gourmet. The daily specials include zesty goat with rosemary, which perfectly suits the pomegranate-fig salad with a mix of green leaves, prosciutto, croutons, parmesan, and pomegranate vinaigrette. Also, sea bass fillet with aubergine mousse, seasonal greens and Florina pepper sauce, and beef cheeks with potato foam and wine sauce. For dessert, orange pie with ice cream. (Athani, tel.: 0030 2645 033149, www.lefkatas.gr)
Thymari: Located in the historic centre and housed in a renovated 1940s building, Thimari combines Lefkadian raw materials with Mediterranean and international recipes under the supervision of chef-owner Pantelis Papalavrentiou. The menu includes handmade pappardelle with beef fillet bites, porcini sauce and mint, potato foam with poached eggs, Lefkada Delimaris sausage, San Michalis Syros cheese and black truffle powder, shi drum with potato puree and Jerusalem artichoke chips, fried capers and spring onion, and the grilled pork neck with grilled courgetti, aubergine, yoghurt and tahini sauce, spring onion and coriander, etc. (Penelope 19, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 022266, www.thymari-lefkada.gr)
Monato da gusto: This restaurant is located on Kathisma beach overlooking the sea. The menu is by chef Thodoris Tzavaras, with an emphasis on simple, everyday dishes of traditional Greek cuisine. Local products and some other famous products such as Cretan xinomyzithra, Amfilohia graviera, trachanas from Limnos, and octopus from the Gulf of Patras are all part of the menu. In addition, Monato da gusto also serves cocktails. (Kathisma, Lefkada, tel.: 0030 2645 097094, www.monato.gr
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