Lefkas: Lagoons, water sports and history

Lefkas combines a distinctive lagoon landscape with beaches for windsurfing and kitesurfing, archaeological history and maritime experiences. Travelling by car is also a practical advantage: a bridge that is open to traffic at all times connects the island of Lefkada to Akarnania, so no ferry crossing is needed. When planning your holiday, you can first consider whether nature, water sports, culture or a mix of these interests should shape your stay.

Lagoons and landscape

In the north of the island lies Gira, a narrow, seven-kilometre stretch of white sand that encloses the lagoon. The lagoon in the city of Lefkada and the Steni Lagoon are part of the Natura 2000 network and are protected areas of particular ecological importance. Nature enthusiasts may also be interested in the special role of the Lefkada City Lagoon: it is a Ramsar wetland of international importance and serves as a stopover for migratory birds. Lefkas thus brings together different landscape features, from a long stretch of sand to ecologically important wetlands.

Beaches and water activities

The water sports options vary depending on the place in question. Kathisma Beach has a two-kilometre stretch of golden sand and offers opportunities for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Vasiliki is especially well known for windsurfing; conditions there are considered ideal, particularly for slalom and freestyle. On the north side of Lefkada, Ai Giannis is a popular kitesurfing spot. Those interested in water skiing, wakeboarding or rides on inflatable towables will find an organised centre in Nydri, with activities such as banana boat and tube rides. These specific differences can help you choose the activities you want to enjoy on your trip.

Diving is another experience available around Lefkas. Underwater, you can explore caves, faults and reefs. For travellers interested in the island’s maritime character, Lefkada’s modern marina is also worth noting: it can accommodate 620 boats.

Archaeology and the history of Lefkada

The Archaeological Museum of Lefkada displays archaeological treasures from the island spanning a long period: its exhibits range from the Middle Palaeolithic to the late Roman period and illustrate the history of Lefkada. The ancient theatre was excavated in the centre of the ancient city of Lefkada and is considered the first theatre discovered in the Ionian Islands. Santa Maura Castle adds an important medieval fortification. It stands at the entrance to the island of Lefkada and was built around 1300. Together, the museum, theatre and castle offer different ways to explore the past, from archaeological finds and an ancient structure to a medieval fortification.

What kind of experiences do you want your holiday to be about?

Your holiday priorities can be a useful starting point when choosing a holiday apartment. If you want to plan windsurfing, kitesurfing or other water sports, you can focus your search on the activities and places mentioned. If you are more interested in lagoons, migratory birds or archaeological history, you can choose a different focus. Lefkas offers specific points of interest for all these pursuits, without requiring them to be combined into a single holiday theme. Local wines are also part of the island’s character: Lefkada is known for them, and visitors can sample them.

Other places to explore: Sivros, Athani, Spanochori, Vafkeri, Kálamos, Kariotes, Aghios Nikolaos Niras and Karya.

For the broader travel overview: Lefkada.