The Island of Lefkada

Built in the early 14th century and later strengthened by the Venetians and Ottomans, it guarded the crossing to Lefkada. A small museum exhibition is housed inside.

Much of the collection comes from the excavations of German archaeologist Wilhelm Dörpfeld in the early 20th century. It's in Lefkada town near the sea — a great stop on a hot or cloudy day.

About 4 km from town, near Frini. See the main church with its icons and frescoes, the bell tower overlooking Agios Ioannis beach, an Ecclesiastical and a Maritime museum, and a small animal park.

Built in 1685 as a single-aisle basilica without a dome, with clear Venetian influences. The iconostasis is by Zakynthian woodcarver I. Groppas and the icons by Cretan painter Tomazo Zen. Combine it with a stroll along the town's pedestrian street.

From Nidri follow the signs for “Waterfalls / Καταρράκτες” towards Rachi. Park at the café at the end of the road and walk about 15 minutes. The pool is ice-cold! The falls are most impressive in spring or after rain; in high summer there's less water.

About 10 km from Lefkada town. The route winds through dense greenery (plane, olive and pine trees), past a cave with a spring, the ruins of watermills and little wooden bridges. The last stretch of road is a dirt track, and some bridges have been reported in poor repair, so take care.

Just minutes from the villa, Nidri is the main port for day cruises: Skorpios, Madouri, Meganisi and Papanikolis sea cave, even Kalamos and Kastos. Boats usually leave 9:00–10:00 and return in the late afternoon (June–September).

About 15 km from town, in the foothills of Mt Elati. Karsaniko embroidery was created in the early 1900s by Maria Stavraka, and you'll find pieces in the village shops. Visit the Folklore Museum and the Phonograph Museum, and try local goat dishes at the tavernas on the square.

In the morning the bay is flat with a light breeze — perfect for beginners and children, with a shallow sandbar. Around 1 pm “Eric” builds to 4–6 Beaufort (7–8 on some days) for experienced riders. Schools and equipment rental are available.

North-westerly thermal winds of 12–24 knots usually start around 14:00–15:00 and drop by 19:00–20:00. It's an intermediate-to-advanced spot with schools, rentals and beach bars. Mind the entry: there are slippery rock slabs.

Watersports centres line Nidri beach, and the sheltered water suits first-timers too. At the harbour you can also rent a boat to explore the nearby islets.

Lefkas Diving Center has operated in Nikiana since 1997 (CMAS certified). Explore caves, reefs and old wrecks along the east coast and around Meganisi. Contact them directly about beginner courses.