The beaches of Lefkada are regularly included in the lists of the world's most beautiful beaches, and with its temperament and hairiness, the island is known as one of the pearls of the Ionian archipelago. Crystal clear sea, dreamy sandy beaches and incredible cuisine. What more could one want?
The island in the Ionian Sea has been associated with some of the main protagonists of Greek mythology for thousands of years, and the history of the island dates back to the 8th century BCE. The main attraction of Lefkada is its beaches, which does not mean that it is only for those who like to lie by the sea or the pool during the summer months. Far from it. Lefkada also hides a number of hiking trails and beautiful traditional villages, examples for those who want to spice up their vacation on the island with something else.
When to Lefkada?
An island with a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is between May and October, although you should avoid the crowds in the summer months. In August, temperatures can rise well above 40 degrees, and the beautiful beaches are occupied to the last corner. You can also decide to visit in winter, but keep in mind that many shops and restaurants are closed during the off-season.
Photo: Unsplash/ValdemarasWhat should I see in Lefkada?
As mentioned, the biggest attraction of the island are its beaches. Porto Katsiki is a family-friendly beach surrounded by majestic white cliffs, and the sea meets golden soft sand. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, and nearby you will find a bar and changing rooms, and you can also rent umbrellas and sunbeds. Also beautiful sandy Egrams is worth a visit, as it belongs to the very top of the world's beaches, with its appearance reminiscent of the Caribbean. The beach, which is located not far from Porto Katsiki, lies at the bottom of a rocky cliff, and is only accessible thanks to a newly built staircase, as the previous one was destroyed by an earthquake.
If you want a bit more privacy, visit Milos beach, which is located not far from the town of Lefkada. But so that you don't just lie on a deckchair, the turquoise sea offers a range of water activities. The most popular are windsurfing and kite surfing, the centers of which are on the beaches of Agios Ioannis and Vassiliki. In the backcountry you can find a number of excellent hiking trails, suitable for the autumn and spring months. Among the green hills you can also find the beautiful Nydri waterfall, which is located at the end of the hiking trail that leads from the village of Nydri. In the summer months, you can also refresh yourself in the water catchment under the waterfall.
Photo: Unsplash/Franz SchaferFor all lovers of the island's sights, the monastery will be the right place Panagia Phaneromeni. The chapel in this place was built by one of the disciples of the apostle St. Paul already in the 1st century, he erected it on the ruins of the temple to the goddess Artemis. In the 17th century, the monastery was expanded even more, but two hundred years later it needed a thorough renovation due to a fire. But that's not all. It was started anew by a fire and an earthquake, and in 1980 it got its present appearance, as well as the addition of a museum and a library. The monastery gardens are also something special, and there is also a small zoo within the building.
If you are interested in history, you must stop at the Archaeological Museum in the center of Lefkada, where you can find everything from the Paleolithic to the Roman Empire. If museums are unfamiliar to you, then it is better to board a ship and sail to one of the nearby islands such as Kefalonia, Ithaca, etc. or visit the castle Agia Mavra. The latter was built in the 14th century, where various festivals and concerts are held. The lighthouse on the Lefkatas peninsula is no less magical. Cape Ducato, located in the extreme south of the island.
Photo: Unsplash/Raimond KlavinsHow to explore Lefkada?
It is best to rent a car when you arrive at the airport. Since the island is also accessible from the mainland via a bridge, you can get a means of transport already on the mainland and use it to get to the island. A car gives you all the freedom, and in addition, public transport is not well developed on the Greek islands.
How much is a plane ticket to Lefkada?
Charter flights from Ljubljana are organized until the end of September, and prices with luggage included start at 299 euros. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Daniel J SchwarzCovid-19 restrictions in Greece
Since the beginning of May, it is no longer necessary to show a health certificate or a vaccination certificate when entering Greece. A negative PCR test result is also no longer required. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodation in Lefkada
Captain Nick Aparthotel
Aparthotel Captain Nick is located in Mikros Gialos village, with air-conditioned apartments and fully equipped kitchens. The rooms offer beautiful views of the sea, and you can also park free of charge within the accommodation.
Semiramis
A good 10 minutes away from the beach, in the middle of the lush greenery of the town of Lefkada, you will find the accommodation Semiramis. The rooms offer beautiful views of the Ionian Sea or the mountains, and the rooms are air-conditioned and boast spacious balconies.
