Welcome to Lefkada
Lefkada is situated between Kefalonia and Corfu and is characterized as the most picturesque of the Ionian islands.
It has unique natural beauty, green mountains, a good climate and beautiful beaches such as Porto Katsiki, Egremni, Vasiliki, Agiofili, Kathisma, Mikros Gialos, Agios Giannis which impress with their incredible turquoise color. These beaches are ranked among the most beautiful ones in Greece. Lefkada is an ideal destination during all seasons of the year.
History
Lefkada owes its name to the white (lefkos in Greek) rocks that characterize the southern part of the island, the cape of Lefkata. The name was first given to the ancient city of Lefkada and then to the entire island. According to mythology, the poet Sappho jumped to the sea from these white rocks as she couldn’t endure the torture of her love for Phaon.
During the English domination, the Greek language became official, new road networks were built and the town’s water supply was organized and improved. The official English occupation didn’t last for long but the English Protection of the Ionian Islands lasted until 1864. During the English rule and Protection, Lefkada and the other Ionian Islands helped the rest of Greece which was still under Turkish rule.
This period also allowed inspiration for many writers such as Yakumo Koizumi also known as Lafcadio Hearn and Angelos Sikelianos. In the 21st May of 1864, a treaty was signed proclaiming the unification of the Ionian Islands (among which is Lefkada) with the independent and newly born Greek State.
Beaches
Nature has been really generous in Lefkada as it has endowed the island with amazing beaches and landscapes all over its territory. In every single corner of this land, the opening to the sea surprisingly reveals a small paradise.
Points of Interest
NIDRI WATERFALLS
The Nydri Waterfalls are a magical place that is worth visiting during your stay in Lefkada. Access is by road up to a point and then you continue on foot on a path straight out of a fairy tale.
SANTA MAVRA CASTLE
The castle of Agia Mavra, located at the entrance to the island, is a historical monument as its walls protected the island from pirates.
CAPE LEFKATAS
The view from there will take your breath away. It is located just 15 minutes from Porto Katsiki and from there you can see the vast Ionian Sea and the islands of Ithaca and Kefalonia.
MONASTERI FANEROMENI
Panagia Faneromeni is the patron saint of the island and the monastery located on the mountain near the town is a place of peace and relaxation. There is also a small zoo with various types of birds, deer, squirrels and other beautiful animals.
Activities
BOAT RENTAL
The best way to explore some of the most beautiful and hidden beaches is to rent a boat, either on a private or group cruise.
WATER ACTIVITIES
From windsurfing and sailing to snorkeling, kayaking, and boat trips along the island’s spectacular coastline, the sea plays a central role in island life.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
For anyone interested in the past of Lefkada, there are many places to see, such as the castle of Agia Mavra, the monastery of Faneromeni, etc.
WIND SURFING
There are beaches such as Vasiliki beach, which is known for its favorable wind for those who love windsurfing or want to learn.
