----- The Greek island of Lefkada -----

Select a hotel in the Ionian Isles

Villages and Islands

Introduction

Land and Climate

History

Picturesque little villages stick up from the enchanting mountainous landscapes with their lush vegetation, fertile slopes and dark green plateaus. Golden shores and lofty cliffs are typical sites for traditional settlements. The villages of Sfakioton (Spanochori, Lazarata, Asproyerakata,) Iie near the center of the island in a unique view from Chortata to the west and south as the landscape gradually descends to Cape Lefkata. Englouvi, the most mountainous village on the island, is at an altitude of 700 m., Karya, one of the main mountain villages is in the center of the island on a lovely plateau and is well-known for its embroideries. It contains elements of traditional architecture and has remained faithful to the old customs of the area.

NYDRI
The spot where Onassis went, for fun and relaxation when he was on holiday on enchanting Skorpios. Today it has developed into the main touristic pole of altraction on Lefkada. It combines natural beauty and an exquisite view of the small islands of Skorpios, Madouri and Meganisi scattered about the dark blue sea, with all the comforts of a well organized tourist site. It has a large number of taverns, restaurants, bars and discos which make for an exciting night life. But even when it is teeming with tourists it still retains its local color and Greek hospitality. The supervised beaches at Nydri offer sea sports for both young and old.

AGIOS NIKITAS
It is on the west side of the island, 12 kilometres from the town of Lefkada. A traditional village with a strong Lefkadian flavour and built amphitheatrically, it has developed into an important tourist resort. It has a large variety of hotel and, tourist units along with all the comforts for pleasurable holidays. Its golden beaches and blue - green crystal - clear sea create a beautiful contrast to the land covered in olive groves. The beach at Ayios Nikitas is followed by the beach of Kathisma one of the loveliest on the island.

LYGIA
Lygia, a picturesque village with a quiet life, is on the east side of the island, 4 kilometres from the town of Lefkada. The little harbour is full of fishing boats that supply fresh fish to not only the island but a large part of Western Greece. Though the village has its own night life in tavernas and bars it is very easy to reach the town from there for a livelier atmosphere.

NIKIANA
The fishing village of Nikiana built in greenery with a magnificent view of the Mountains of Aitoloakarnania lies between Lygia and Nydri, 9 kilometres from the town of Lefkada. Its hotel and tourist installations as well as its picturesque tavernas right on the sea make for relaxing holidays. The small and beautiful beaches have clear, clean water and all sea sports.

VASILIKI
The bay of Vasiliki is one of the best know areas in the Mediterranean and is ideal for wind surfing. It is 36 kms from the town, on the south side of the island. Locals and tourists gather at the lovely little harbour in the evening creating a marvellous, restful atmosphere. Besides Vasiliki bay itself there are countless other bays, small and large, with golden sand beaches such as Ayiofyli, which can only be reached by sea. There are wind surfing classes for beginners.

SUROUNDING ISLANDS

A series of small, verdant islands, the one right next to the other opposite the southeast coast of Lefkada, complement the beauty of the landscape. They are Meganisi, Kalamos, Kastos, Skorpios, Skorpidi,, Madouri, Sparti, Thilia and Kythros.

Skorpios lies a short distance from Nydri and has become inseparably linked to the happy and the tragic moments of the Onassis family, and its fame has spread throughout the world.

Madouri also a private island, belonged to Antonis Valaoritis. His lovely neoclassical country house still commands its center.

Meganissi is the largest of them all. It has beautiful beaches and three charming little hamlets: Spartochori, Vathy and Katomeri with 1,300 inhabitans. It receives many visitors in summer, and has regular connections with Lefkada.

Kalamos retains a small traditional settlement with 700 inhabitants which is worth a visit as is the small islands of Kastos.

During the summer there are caique tours that make the round of the islands. Thus you can get to know them at first and enjoy their pristine water.