Walking on the Greek Island of Lefkada

Lefkada (also known as Lefkas) is situated just off the Greek mainland in the Ionian Sea, roughly half way between Corfu and the Peloponnese - an ideal place for a relaxing walking holiday.

There are some beautiful coastal and mountain walks on Lefkada. May is the best month for walking, but because of the heat, the walks will be half day only. This leaves plenty of time for other activities - including learning some basic Greek if you are interested. Accommodation is ensuite with sea-view balconies in a small hotel in the delightful fishing village of Agios Nikitos.

Lefkada - the island and its people

An island of contrasting beauty, 35 kilometres long by 15 kilometres wide, containing all that Mother Nature has to offer. Long, golden sandy beaches with cobalt, crystal clear waters that lap the edges gently or crash angrily against tall white cliffs. (Lefkas meaning white). Mountain ranges up to 1145 metres high, deep ravines with waterfalls, tumbling through olive-clad hillsides and fertile plains producing seasonal crops. Agriculture is still the main source of the island's income.

The Lefkadians all share a heart-felt dedication towards protecting their strong historical background, one of folklore, art and working in traditional ways. Unwittingly, this has been their saving grace and has kept them from being corrupted by the undesirable trappings that modern tourism often brings.

Although life has stood still around the mountain villages, modern technology, such as the car and electricity, do exist!! Lefkada is now joined to mainland Greece by means of a causeway and a movable swing bridge. It was originally connected by an isthmus but during the 7th century B.C. the Corinthians excavated the land and moved sand banks in order to make way for a shipping lane. Nowadays, the speed of wheeled transport is more important.

The walking holiday is based in Agios Nikitas. This pretty little village is tucked away in the lee of a headland (just beyond the beach in the adjacent photo) of the north-western shoulder on Lefkada, 12 kilometres from Lefkas town. Towering cypresses grow side by side with olives on hillsides overlooking the higgledy-piggledy rusty coloured rooftops. The main thoroughfare leading down to the beach is joined by many meandering paths where vines drip down densely from above and flowering pots teeter on the edge of white washed walls. New properties have been built in the traditional design alongside the old and fit in comfortably with the surroundings, thanks to the strong conservation policies adopted by the locals. A handful of supermarkets, nine tavernas and six cafes provide a good service throughout the summer season.

Booking details

Dates and prices for May 2000 have yet to be announced.

Groups: Maximum of 12. Should you wish to put together your own group and perhaps have a tailor made itinerary we will be happy to discuss this option with you. For further details contact:

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