LEFKADA

AN ASTONISHINGLY BEAUTIFUL ISLAND

TIMELESS VILLAGES NESTED IN LUSH PINE FORESTS AND WILD OLIVE GROVES, BREATH-TAKING LANDSCAPES AND SHEER WHITE ROCKS

The deep and calm waters of the large sheltered bays such as Nidri, Syvota, Vasiliki and Poros, are popular with sailors and flotillas. For all true explorers and nature lovers, however, it is the gorgeous beaches and white rocky shoreline of the less populated west coast that will steal your hearts. Most notably, the beaches of Porto Katsiki and Eggremnoi with their white and azure waters are a must see.

Lefkas town

Laid-back and charming, Lefkas town has suffered three major earthquakes since 1948 that have all left their mark in its architecture. Many of the brightly coloured houses are reinforced with wooden and metallic structures to mitigate any future damage from seismic shocks. The cosy narrow streets and richly decorated Venetian give Lefkas town a village atmosphere with a cosmopolitan touch. There are plentiful cafes and tavernas surrounding the main square, which can become lively at night as the street sellers set up their stalls. There are more bars and tavernas at the harbour with views across to mainland Greece.

A series of fortresses alongside the narrow causeway that connects Lefkas to the mainland speak to the island’s strategic importance in the past. The 13th century fortress at Santa Mavra was worked on by Venetians, Turks and, most of all, earthquakes. An explosion in 1888 reduced many of its buildings to rubble.

Other settlements

Karya is a picturesque mountain village located 15 kilometres south-west of Lefkas Town. It’s central square full of taverna tables laid out beneath a huge, shady plane tree. At just 10’ drive from Karya you will find the traditional hill village of Lazarata with its olive groves and gorgeous mountain views. Walk around to discover the beautiful red-roofed houses, vineyards, olive groves, citrus plantations, and witness the beauty and serenity of the traditional Greek village life. About 25 km south of Lefkas town you will find Poros, a village full of narrow alleys and traditional houses overlooking the Rouda Bay. The fishing village of Geni with its waterfront tavernas offers a quiet escape to the otherwise busy east coast. Feel free to come here and enjoy the fresh catch of the day from the local fishermen.