Lefkada is famous for its breathtaking turquoise-water beaches but it has definitely more than that to offer! It is probably one of the few greek islands where the visitor can find a unique combination of natural, historical and architectural sights, such as waterfalls and natural lakes, traditional mountain villages, monuments and beautiful green-filled hiking trails.
Let’s discover Lefkada’s sights!
Dimossari or Nidri Waterfalls
The high mountains of Lefkada are the sources of many waterfalls ending up into the sea. One of these beautiful waterfalls is the Dimossari waterfall, just a few minutes outside of the touristic village of Nidri. The trail leading to the waterfall is ideal for hiking, while the cold, crystal clear waters of the waterfall will relieve you from the sweltering heat of the summer.
Cape Lefkatas
On the southwestern tip of Lefkada, near Porto Katsiki beach, you will find Cape Lefkatas with its beautiful lighthouse, a must-see for visitors of the island. According to ancient Greek mythology, people jumped off the cliffs of the cape to get relieved of their heartbreak, so did Goddess Aphrodite and the famous poet Sappho. A romantic sight to view, which can be combined with a visit to the southwestern beaches of the island.
Melissa Canyon
Melissa Canyon is a beautiful green-filled canyon where you can find a variety of trees and animals, like cypress, platanus, oak, ferrets, hedgehogs, and others. Its paths will lead you to village ruins, watermills, stone bridges, wells and springs, making it an ideal spot for hiking.
Marantochori Lake
Around 2.5 km from Marantochori Village, you will find the small natural lake of Marantochori, in a beautiful natural landscape, filled with olive trees.
Karya Village
Karya is one of the largest mountain villages in Lefkada, situated at the center of the island. Considered as one of the most pittoresque villages in Lefkada, it is definitely worth a visit. There, you will find craftsman shops selling handmade embroidered fabrics, as well as traditional taverns and cafeterias.
Church of Agia Kyriaki
Just opposite of Nidri village, among the rocks, you will see a small white chapel, the chapel of Agia Kyriaki or ‘chapel of the rock’. It is located on the peninsula of “Geni”, at the bay of Vlycho. A sanctuary of the Nymphs was once situated there. You can reach it either by boat or by a path at the end of the road to Geni. Close to Agia Kyriaki you can also see the tomb of archaeologist William Doerpfeld, who supported the theory that Lefkada is Homer’s Ithaca. The church celebrates on the 7th of July.
