The lagoon near the town of Lefkada combines distinctive birdlife with a long history of human use. It is classified as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention and is part of the Natura 2000 network; it is also designated as a protected area of particular ecological importance. Migratory birds stop here, and many rare bird species can be found. At the same time, traditional fish farms use special reed structures where fish live and grow under natural conditions.

Lagoon, Sand and Forests

In the north of Lefkada, Gira surrounds the lagoon: this strip of white sand is seven kilometres long. At Pefkoulia, you’ll find a different landscape, where a pine forest stretches down to the sea and ends at a beach of the same name. Skaros Forest is known as an important natural monument. Its rare flora also includes a hard-to-find oak species.

These landscapes show several sides of Lefkada’s nature: a protected lagoon with resting migratory birds, a long strip of sand by the water, and forests that reach the sea or preserve rare plants. The landscapes differ in character without needing to be reduced to a single kind of nature experience.

Traces of Lefkada’s History

In its original form, Agia Mavra Fortress was built by the Franks in 1300 and is considered an example of outstanding fortification architecture. The Archaeological Museum of Lefkada displays finds dating from the Middle Palaeolithic to the late Roman period and offers an insight into the island’s history. The historical perspective thus extends from archaeological evidence to the fortress.

The Church of Agios Spyridon is also part of the cultural heritage of the town of Lefkada. It stands on the central square and is considered the town’s first church as well as a religious, cultural and historical monument. Outside the town, the salt pans ceased operating in 1947; they remain significant as part of regional history. These sites represent different chapters: religious and urban heritage, fortification architecture, and former salt production.

Trails and Water Sports

Melissas Gorge has a network of hiking and walking trails. The path through the gorge is about two kilometres long, and the crossing is said to take around an hour. If you plan this route, bear in mind that trail conditions may vary.

The places mentioned for water sports differ by discipline. Vasiliki Beach offers suitable conditions for windsurfing, including slalom and freestyle; wind conditions are seasonal and variable. Ai Giannis on the north side of Lefkada is considered a suitable place for kitesurfing, also with seasonally changing wind conditions. Nydri has an organised centre for water skiing, wakeboarding and inflatable rides such as banana boats and tubes. Activities and operators may change; check what is currently available before making plans.

Getting There and Getting Around

The town of Lefkada lies on the island’s northeastern edge near the mainland coast and is accessible via an arched bridge. Lefkada is also easily accessible from the ports of Igoumenitsa and Patras and via Aktio Airport. Check the relevant routes before your trip. Lefkada also has a modern marina with space for 620 boats.

The port of Vasiliki has regular connections to Ithaca and Kefalonia and is used by many travellers who want to explore other Ionian Islands. As transport connections may change, it’s worth checking the current timetable before your trip. Alongside access via the mainland coast, these island connections are another option to consider.

Regional Cuisine

Traditional Lefkada cuisine includes thyme honey and the rare Vertzami wine. A rare variety of lentils is grown in the mountain village of Englouvi, which shares the wine’s name. The handmade pie tradition is also diverse, including Lahanopita, Briani, Macaronopita and Ladopita. These local products and dishes give regional cuisine its distinctive character, from honey and wine to lentils and pies.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Lefkas, Kalavros, Kálamos, Vasiliki, Perigiali, Aghios Petros, Nikiana, Aghios Nikitas, Aghios Nikolaos Niras, Vafkeri, Episkopos, Spartochori, Fterno, Ellomenos, Marantochori, Apolpaina, Katochori, Poros, Nydri, Katouna, Spanochori, Athani, Karya, Asprogerakata, Alexandros, Sivros, Kariotes, Geni, Meganisi, Plატistoma, Exanthia, Ligia, Lefkada, Kastos and Sivota.

For the broader travel overview: Ionian Islands.