What to do in Lefkada
Lefkada is a multimodal island that allows the visitor numerous opportunities to engage during the summer, but also during a winter holiday. One may enjoy not only nature and the sea, but also come to know the island through its culture and history.
Let’s begin with our recommendations regarding the sea.
Lefkada processes a variation of beaches that fulfil the needs for relaxation and entertainment for each visitor. Aside from countless beaches, one may spend the day enjoying the refreshing waters of the Ionian, or have the opportunity to engage in a diverse amount of water sports. The epicentre of recreational water sports are the beaches located along the southeast coast of the island. Scuba diving, water-skiing, jet skiing, and many other options are available such as banana, fly-fish, big mable, tube, crazy-sofas and more.
Lefkada is also an international hub for kite and windsurfing. The beaches of Miloi, near Lefkada town, and Vasiliki bay have hosted international races for the above sports.
Adrenaline seekers that wish to see the island from above and land safely by the beach should try paragliding.
Of course you have the option of renting a boat or sailboat to admire the coastline of Lefkada and the surrounding islands, bringing ones experience with the water element to a full circle.
If cross terrain extreme sports, and not only, is your thing, there is a downhill track available at Haradiatika. The inner landscape of the island is perfect for mountain biking, hiking and trail running. Every autumn, the Lefkas Trail Run takes place along the specially designed trails of Skari Mountain.
A satisfactory network of trails throughout the island, some suitable even for young children, allow you to see beautiful scenery of untouched nature, amongst forests, streams and mountains, the Skari Mountain, with the centenarian oak trees, the gorge of Melissa, the water springs of Dafni and Kerasia, and the mountainous mass Elati Mountain etc.
Along your hikes inland, you will come across old monasteries, small churches and old charming village’s where you will stroll along narrow streets and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
Weather you want to visit the inland by foot or by car, don’t neglect to rest under the sycamore trees that cool off at the squares of small, traditional villages. Enjoy a coffee or meal and of course the indescribable local delicacies, which you surely will want to bring back home, such as oil cookies, oil pie, Eglouvi lentils, ‘lathiria’ from Karia, local wine, oil and honey. Also we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the famous Lefkada salami, local rozoli liquor, sesame bars and nougat.
In Lefkada town you will find extraordinary routes in the old city centre and will discover the unique local architectural characteristics, the museums and the libraries. You will explore beautiful neighbourhoods and listen into the musical and lively conversations of the locals with their characteristic local “braneliki” accent.
If you happen upon a procession of the Philharmonic of Lefkada along the main street of town, you should know that you have the pleasure of enjoying the oldest cultural society of the island and the 2nd oldest philharmonic of Greece.
Lefkada is abundant when it comes to events. The largest cultural event is the International Folklore Festival with its 60 year old history. It is the eldest cultural institution of the nation in regards to dance and music.
The Literature and Arts Festival showcase the cultural identity of the island through theatre, music, art, history and literature.
There are also gastronomy events such as the celebration of lentils at Agios Donatos. In addition you may have a wonderful time at one of the numerous traditional gatherings (panigiria) during the summer that involve music and dancing.
Summer aside, Lefkada can offer visitors unique experiences and with its easy access it allows one to explore the island year round.
