Lefkas, the fourth largest of the Greek Islands, lies in the Ionian Sea. .It is barely an island linked as it is to the mainland by a bridge twenty five metres long. Levkas is a picturesque area with rugged limestone mountains, beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear seas. There are many pretty resorts from which to choose and with their broad ranging facilities they accommodate most tastes.
The unspoiled beauty of Lefkas with it pine clad hills and striking coastline, draws many visitors to its shores every year. Guaranteed hot sunshine and warm waters (the water in the south is slightly cooler as it is affected by spring water that comes from the mountain) conspire to make this an ideal holiday destination for many people. Add to this the friendly welcome of Greek hospitality, the numerous tavernas to sample local food and wine and you have the perfect blend for a wonderful holiday.
Lefkas is popular with all age ranges and interests It has such a diverse range of sightseeing opportunities and activities to offer that it seems to possess an almost universal appeal.. Families with small children can find many beaches with safe bathing in calm waters. Water sports enthusiasts will find a large variety of activities including excellent surfing on the south coast.
Although the holiday season lasts from April until October when the temperature ranges from twenty to thirty degrees, summer is the most popular time to visit the island.
Lefkas is a strikingly beautiful island with its pine covered mountains, verdant valleys, waterfalls and cliffs. In the east there are small beaches with calm waters which families with children will find ideal. Nydri beach is well organised for a variety of water sports including scuba diving. Surfers from all over the world flock to the south of the island where strange thermal activity, caused by strong winds, makes it the perfect spot for this thrilling sport.
Gyra, with its craggy cliffs, lies on the west coast and is also an excellent beach for surfing and kite surfing. This is the place to visit if you want to enjoy wonderful sunsets.
Owing to the earthquakes of 1948 and 1953 much of the traditional architecture of the island was destroyed. However the towns and villages remain picturesque with their narrow streets and alleyways of wood and painted metal houses cloaked in bougainvillea and interspersed with Byzantine churches.
The natural environment of the area remains unspoilt with pretty villages clinging to the edge of mountains.
The island's main town Lefkada is in the north. It has a large marina which can hold over six hundred boats and yachts and it is an ideal spot to sit and watch the hustle and bustle of the mariners while sipping coffee or wine in the water front bars and tavernas.
Two kilometres south of the town, built in the 15th century, is the island’s oldest church. It is worth visiting this Byzantine structure if only to see the wonderful frescoes.
Levkas is an attractive holiday destination accommodating visitors of all ages and interests with its diverse facilities and attractions.
Festivals are closely associated with the Orthodox Church’s calendar and are celebrated with music, food and wine. August 15th, the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin is especially important in the villages of Ligia and Vassilik where there is a great feast with food, wine and dancing.
Also in August the island hosts the International Folklore Festival with singing and dancing.
The nightlife in Levkas has something for everyone. Lefkada is considered to be one of the best towns for nightlife in the Ionian Islands with a wide assortment of bars and clubs where you can drink and dance until dawn. Nidri and Vassiliki are also noted for their vibrancy.
There are very many quiet resorts for those who wish to get away from the music and noise in order to replenish their batteries for the day ahead. What could be better than sitting in a taverna watching the sun disappear into the sea?
The larger resorts have gift shops lining the beaches and here you can buy all your holiday souvenirs including, rather tasteful ceramics, embroidered linens, leather goods and soaps made from olive oil and honey from Athani. Lefkas is noted for its embroidered linens and its weaving.
Lefkada has a pedestrianised area full of all kinds of shops to satisfy most needs. In the centre is a square with pavement cafes where you can take a break from retail therapy.
Lefkas has numerous tavernas, cafes, bars and restaurants which provide a wide range of food to accommodate most tastes. Locally caught fish, simply cooked, is always delicious. Moussaka is another Greek favourite made from minced lamb and aubergines. In the larger resorts the restaurants offer international cuisine.
The local wines are inexpensive and very palatable.
When visiting churches and monasteries, shoulders and legs should be covered to avoid offence.
The islanders are noted for their hospitality and visitors are warmly welcomed.
Restaurants are very child friendly.
The best time to book a cheap holiday to Lefkas is in April, May or October – Just outside of the summer season. Drinks, and food can be cheaper during this time too, so you may be better off booking accommodation on a room only or self catering basis. You'll save enough money on the accommodation to pay for the food in the local restaurants.
With warm waters and beautiful beaches, it's not much of a surprise that Lefkas is a very popular destination for holidaymakers every year. What's more, the guaranteed hot sunshine means that you'll still have an enjoyable time even if you do decide to take your holiday outside of the peak summer period so you can save some money.
The temperatures will range between 20 and 30 degrees during April and October, so if you manage to find a good deal early or late in the season, the weather is still going to be warm enough to pick up a nice tan.
The nightlife in Lefkas features plenty of activities for everyone. Whether you'd like to drink and dance through the night in the many lively bars and clubs, or have a quieter romantic meal, there's something for you in Lefkas.
If you're just looking to relax, there are plenty quiet resorts where you can sit back and enjoy the beautiful sunsets.
The best time to look for a cheap Lefkas holiday is in April, May or October, just outside the peak summer period.
