One of the Ionian Islands (or Eptanisa) on the west coast of the Greek mainland, Lefkada took its name from the whiteness of its southern cliffs. The island has a turbulent history surviving Venetian, Turkish, French, Russian and British rule until 1864 and two devastating earthquakes in 1948 and 1953. However, there is a genuine Greek atmosphere to be relished, lots of sandy beaches to be enjoyed and a variety of natural beauty spots.
Nidri is a vibrant, cosmopolitan resort looking out to the Vlycho Bay and the private islet of Skorpios, owned by the Onassis family. From Nidri, a 45-minute walk takes the visitor to a delightful waterfall and natural swimming pool. On Lefkada’s west coast some of the stunning beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water include Tsoukalades, Kalimini, Kalamitsi, Egremni and Porto Katsiki. From the sheer white cliffs of Cape Doukato or Lady’s Cape ancient Greek “lady” Sappho leapt to her death for the love of Phaon.
Vassiliki is a windsurfer’s paradise and Lefkada’s second biggest resort. Lefkada is also a favourite destination for dolphins and many dolphin species can be seen off the coast of this Ionian island.
Lefkada has a tradition in lace and embroidery and the villages of Karya and Englouvi are centres of the island’s lace and embroidery artisan industry selling many fine works.
