Lefkada is a Greek island situated on the west coast of Greece, in the Ionian Sea. It is connected to the mainland by a long causeway and a bridge, making the island reachable by car. It is renowned as having the best beaches in the Mediterranean Sea. Every summer, tourists are attracted here by the steep rocky surroundings and the crystal clear waters. In July and August the average temperatures reaches about 30 ºC, thus excellent conditions to admire the great natural beauty or to go windsurfing. I have booked my second holiday here. Below you can find the top ten things to do:
10. Discover Its History
The German Archeologist Wilhelm Dörpfeld suggested the island is actually Homer’s Ithaca, and the palace of Odysseus was located west of Nidri on the south coast of Lefkada. One argument is the fact that Ithaca was depicted as an island reachable on foot which is also the case of Lefkada, which at that time was connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway.
9. Caving
Although the island is quite small (335.8 km2 (130 sq. mi), there are plenty of things to do. For example, if you take a boat cruise from Nydri village, in about 45 minutes you will be in Papanikolis sea cave, the hideaway of a submarine of the same name during the Second World War. This is a perfect spot for snorkeling. This is a new whole world full of blue and gold colors inside the cave.
8. Windsurfing
The best windsurfing spots are Agios Ioannis and Vassiliki, that are located on the south cost of the island. If one wakes up early in the morning, with a bit of luck, you can even spot dolphins. Here you can try kite surfing, but pay attention as the winds are quite strong. You can even practice extreme sport such as SUPing (Stand Up Paddle-boarding). Currently this is one of the fastest growing water surf activity and in order to practice it you have to stand up on a board and paddle.
7. Nidri Waterfall
I recommend you rent a motorbike and explore the villages in the center of the island and the beaches on the east coast. Nidri is the largest town in Lefkada and the home of Nidri waterfall. In order to get to the waterfall, take the road from the middle of this village. The road is a little bit difficult, but in the end it is worth. If you want to take a swim in the crystal clear water, be sure to pack your swimming suit.
6. The lighthouse
If you decide to go to Cape Lefkatas Moreover, you can visit the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo. The remaining structure of the temple and the panorama gives a feeling of conectivity with the island and nature overall. The location is breathtaking and romantic at the same time so make sure you bring your loved one.
5. Beaches
Since you decide to spend your holiday on an island you should also take advantage of the sun and go sunbathing on one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece that are found in Lefkada. The clear water and the sun will erase all those days of hard work at the office. Make sure you take your sunglasses and most important your sunscreen and feel free to enjoy the waves. The sand caught between your finger toes is always a good sign when it comes to a holiday. The white rocks and golden sands that every year become headlines of travels guides and receive awards for the best beaches of the Mediterranean Sea will leave you speechless in an instant.
4.Boat trip
If you are a sea fan you can always go on a boat trip while in Lefkada. There are plenty to choose from and the costs are quite decent. The magical scenery will captivate you in a manner of minutes and dolphins are friendlier up close. Be sure to take your camera as this could be a memory you will want to keep in your holiday photo album.
3.Biking trails
While you are here to relax you might find total relaxation in some fantastic exercise offered by the grounds of the island. Biking is a excellent cardio exercise and also it is very easy to do and there are lots of trails you can choose from, depending on the level of experience you have. Also, this could turn out to be a great teambuilding exercise if you go with friends or even a family bonding one.
2.Island cuisine
Fish salted codfish and sardines are often found on the menu and also, depending on the season you can also find fruit. The island offers plenty of quince and almonds, but few citrus fruits, as they grow mainly on the plain of Nydri. Usually meat is cooked with pasta, rice or potatoes and and some local food includes ‘etimezi’ (grape-juice syrup), ‘soutzouki’ (rolls of nuts covered in dried must-cream and sliced), sun-dried must-jelly, and ‘sykomaghida’ – an old recipe made of dried figs with almonds and spices, so make sure you try some when you decide to spend your holiday in Lafkada!
1.Snorkeling
A fun way of discovering the island is also by admiring the sea life. Snorkeling is a fun and healthy way of achieving this so keep your eyes wide open for all kinds of fish and sea vegetation, bright colors and a very clear turquoise and calm water. Enjoy and don’t forget your flippers!
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