Luxury Villas in Lefkada

Lefkada’s beaches deserve their reputation. Porto Katsiki and Egremni sit beneath towering white cliffs, with turquoise water. Kathisma has a livelier atmosphere, with beach bars and sun loungers, while the more sheltered eastern coastline offers gentler conditions for swimming and snorkelling.

The island is also a favourite among watersports enthusiasts. Windsurfers head for Vasiliki, where afternoon winds provide excellent conditions, while sailing trips offer the chance to explore neighbouring islands and coves that are harder to reach by road.

For a change of scenery, venture into the hills and discover Lefkada’s wine country. Small, family-run wineries produce distinctive wines using local grape varieties, including red Vertzami and white Vardea. A tasting offers a lovely introduction to another side of the island, particularly when paired with a drive through its traditional villages.

Colourful streets and lively squares make Lefkada Town particularly inviting; follow the pedestrianised lanes towards the waterfront, where locals settle into tavernas over plates of meze and a glass of ouzo.

The pretty harbours of Sivota and Nydri offer another lovely setting for dinner, with fishing boats bobbing nearby and freshly caught seafood featuring prominently on the menus. Inland, family-run tavernas in villages such as Karya and Eglouvi serve hearty regional dishes in a more traditional setting.

Look out for Lefkada’s distinctive local specialities, particularly Eglouvi lentils and the island’s peppery, air-dried salami. Fresh fish and savoury pies are also worth seeking out, ideally accompanied by a glass of locally produced wine. For something different, try a red Vertzami or a crisp white Vardea.

Some of Lefkada’s most memorable corners lie beyond the main coastal resorts. A trip inland reveals the mountain villages of Karya and Eglouvi, where traditional stone houses overlook olive-covered hillsides and family-run tavernas serve local specialities. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore, although some mountain and coastal roads are steep and winding, so it’s worth planning your route before setting off.