The Magnificent Ionian Sea Tour Starting from Lefkada
Join us and let your dreams set sail on this extraordinary journey through paradise. With each stop along this enchanting route, you'll be immersed in the timeless allure of the Ionian Islands, where every moment is a testament to the magic of the Mediterranean.
Exploring the Jewel of the Ionian Seas!
Embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the Ionian Sea with our captivating boat tour route.
Set sail from the stunning shores of Lefkada, where azure waters beckon and rugged cliffs echo ancient tales. Journey to Cephalonia, a gem of the Ionian, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and hidden coves. In Skala, indulge in sun-drenched days on the golden sands, framed by turquoise vistas that enchant the soul.
Next, venture to Zakynthos, a paradise of emerald shores and iconic shipwreck views that captivate every traveler's heart. Discover the legendary island of Ithaka, steeped in myth and mystery, where every corner whispers the echoes of Odysseus' journey. Then, experience the tranquil beauty of Kastos, a hidden treasure of pristine beaches and authentic Greek charm. Finally, return to Lefkada, where your voyage began, with memories etched in the sands of time.
Lefkada
Lefkada is a special Greek island because you can get there by car, thanks to a bridge from the mainland. It's known for amazing blue waters, white beaches, and green nature.
Amazing Beaches Some of the best beaches are Porto Katsiki and Egremni. They have bright blue water and are perfect for relaxing and swimming.
Nature and Hiking The island isn't just beaches. It has green mountains and waterfalls, like those in Nydri. These places are great for walking and seeing the island's beauty.
Cute Towns Places like Lefkada Town and Vasiliki have narrow streets and pretty houses. They're good for walking around and seeing local life.
Fun in the Water Lefkada is also famous for water sports, especially windsurfing. The wind here is just right for it, making it a fun place for adventures on the water.
Tasty Food The food in Lefkada is delicious. You can try seafood and Greek dishes that taste wonderful.
Egremni Beach is another stunning beach on Lefkada known for its turquoise waters and pristine sandy shoreline. Accessible via a long staircase carved into the cliffside, Egremni offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere compared to Porto Katsiki. Visitors can unwind on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the sun while enjoying panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
Located near Lefkada Town, Agia Mavra Fortress is a historic Venetian castle dating back to the 14th century. The fortress played a crucial role in defending the island against various invaders throughout its history, including the Ottoman Empire and the Venetian Republic. Visitors can explore the well-preserved walls, towers, and battlements of the fortress, as well as the interior courtyard and underground chambers. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing. Additionally, Agia Mavra Fortress hosts cultural events and festivals during the summer months, adding to its allure as a must-visit attraction in Lefkada.
Porto Katsiki is one of the most famous and breathtaking beaches in Greece, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sand, and dramatic cliffs. Accessible via a steep staircase or by boat, Porto Katsiki offers stunning views and excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities.
Located near the village of Nydri, the Nydri Waterfalls are a hidden gem tucked away in a lush green landscape. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike through the forest to reach the waterfalls, where they can swim in the refreshing pools beneath the cascading waters and relax in the natural surroundings.
Perched on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea, Rachi is a picturesque taverna known for its stunning panoramic views and mouthwatering cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional Greek dishes, including grilled meats, seafood specialties, and homemade mezes, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine al fresco on the terrace and enjoy the sunset while savoring the flavors of Lefkada.
Situated along the bustling waterfront of Nidri, The Barrel stands as a family-run restaurant dedicated to culinary diversity. Renowned for its delectable array of traditional and international dishes, The Barrel sets itself apart with its prompt service and authentic flavors. Boasting an extensive selection of wines sourced from the island and across Greece, The Barrel has earned acclaim from esteemed tourist guides, including the British Rough Guide and the Lonely Planet guide.
Perched atop a hill in the northwest of Lefkada, Amente beckons as an upscale restaurant and cocktail bar, promising a delightful evening experience. Step into the exquisite restaurant, where the chef skillfully blends local Lefkadian ingredients with various Greek products, crafting a menu replete with flavorful delights. From crisp salads to delectable appetizers, vegetarian options to freshly-caught seafood and prime cuts of meat, there's something to please every palate. Diners have the option to enjoy their meal by the restaurant's pool or on a semi-private open terrace, with a selection of high-end wines available to enhance the culinary experience, ranging from local favorites to international varieties. Moreover, the four-tiered bar area overlooking the azure Ionian Sea provides the perfect setting to unwind and savor your favorite libation in ultimate relaxation.
Kefalonia
Cephalonia is a big, beautiful island in the Ionian Sea. It's known for amazing beaches, clear water, and friendly towns. It's perfect for anyone who loves nature and exploring.
Gorgeous Beaches One of the best beaches is Myrtos Beach, with white stones and bright blue water. Antisamos Beach is great for snorkeling because the water is full of fish and sea life.
Mountains and Caves The island has green mountains and cool caves. Melissani Cave has an underground lake that the sun lights up from above. Drogarati Cave is big and has lots of rock formations.
Cute Towns and History Fiscardo and Assos are small towns with colorful houses and nice places to eat by the water. The island also has old ruins and castles to learn about its history.
Tasty Food Cephalonia has delicious food, like fresh seafood and local cheese. Don't forget to try Robola, a wine made on the island.
Melissani Cave, located near the village of Karavomilos, is a stunning natural wonder renowned for its underground lake and ethereal blue waters. Visitors can take a boat tour through the cave's cavernous chambers, where sunlight filters through the ceiling, illuminating the turquoise waters below. The cave is steeped in mythology, with local legends associating it with the nymph Melissani, hence its name.
Myrtos Beach is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Greece, known for its dramatic cliffs, white pebble shoreline, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Nestled between the mountains of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros, Myrtos offers breathtaking panoramic views and excellent swimming and sunbathing opportunities. It has been consistently ranked among the world's best beaches for its natural beauty.
Assos is a picturesque village located on a narrow isthmus on the northwest coast of Kefalonia, surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters. The village is dominated by the ruins of a Venetian castle perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the quaint streets of Assos, admire the traditional architecture, and relax in waterfront tavernas serving fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Tassia Restaurant is a family-run taverna located in the charming fishing village of Fiskardo. Known for its warm hospitality and authentic Greek flavors, Tassia offers a menu of traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade mezes. Diners can enjoy their meal in the cozy dining room or al fresco on the terrace overlooking the harbor.
Lorraine's Magic Hill is a charming family-owned restaurant specializing in traditional Greek and local cuisine. Situated atop the hill overlooking Lourdas Beach, the restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the sea and the island of Zakynthos.Lorraine frequently hosts Greek nights complete with traditional dancing and live music, adding to the restaurant's lively atmosphere.
Situated in the heart of Argostoli, Avli Restaurant is a popular dining destination known for its creative cuisine and elegant ambiance. The menu features a mix of Mediterranean and Greek dishes with a modern twist, showcasing fresh ingredients and innovative flavors. Guests can choose from a variety of seafood specialties, pasta dishes, and grilled meats, all served in a stylish and inviting setting.
Skala
Skala is approximately 23 miles southeast of the island's capital, Argostoli. It's known for its long stretch of sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers. In the evenings, Skala comes alive with a lively nightlife scene, offering a variety of bars, tavernas, and beach clubs where visitors can enjoy drinks, live music, and dancing in the early hours. Beyond the beach and town center, Skala is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including lush green hillsides, olive groves, and vineyards.
This long stretch of sandy beach is one of the main draws of the area, offering crystal-clear waters and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It's perfect for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.
Situated on a hill overlooking Skala, the Monastery of Panagia Agrilion offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the Ionian Sea. It's a serene and picturesque spot, perfect for a peaceful retreat and for exploring the island's religious and cultural heritage.
Mounda Beach, located near Skala, is known for its soft golden sand and tranquil atmosphere. It's also a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Visitors can learn about turtle conservation efforts at the nearby project and, if lucky, may even spot turtles nesting or hatching during the nesting season.
Sunrise, a delightful restaurant nestled in Kefalonia, sits gracefully on the shores of Spithi Beach, just a leisurely stroll away from Skala village. This charming tavern beckons visitors with its serene ambiance and delectable cuisine. Renowned for its extensive selection of seafood delicacies, including Sea Bream, prawns, and calamari, Sunrise promises a culinary experience to remember. The appetizers served here are truly one-of-a-kind.
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings as you take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront. The tavern boasts a picturesque garden adorned with vibrant flowers, where diners can savor their meals amidst nature's beauty.
Nestled in the picturesque Skala area of eastern Kefalonia, Flamingo exudes charm as a delightful dining spot. For those craving authentic Greek cuisine, this restaurant is a must-visit. Tucked alongside pine trees, it offers a serene ambiance at the end of the bustling main street, with outdoor tables affording captivating views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The menu at Flamingo is a delightful journey through traditional Greek fare. From tantalizing appetizers to savory main courses, each dish promises to captivate your taste buds. Complementing these culinary delights is an impressive selection of wines, ensuring a harmonious pairing with your meal.
Nestled in Skala, a quaint village surrounded by serene and picturesque landscapes, you'll find the Old Times restaurant. This charming eatery presents its patrons with a breathtaking vista of the sea, accompanied by the soothing melody of lapping waves.
Within its menu, you'll discover a treasure trove of traditional Greek cuisine, complemented by an extensive array of rose, white, and red wines. Old Times is renowned for its commitment to utilizing high-quality ingredients sourced locally, ensuring an exceptional dining experience for all who visit.
Zakythnos
Zakynthos, also called Zante, is a gorgeous island in Greece known for its stunning beaches and clear blue sea. It's a great place for both relaxing and finding adventure.
Amazing Beaches and Caves Navagio Beach, with its famous shipwreck and high cliffs, is a must-see. The Blue Caves are also incredible, with water that shines bright blue. You can take a boat to see them and even swim inside.
Nature and Turtles The island has more than just beaches. It's green with forests and hills perfect for walking. Zakynthos is also special because it's a home for rare sea turtles, especially at Laganas Bay
Towns and Food The main town, Zakynthos Town, has pretty buildings and places to visit. All over the island, you can enjoy tasty Greek food like seafood, moussaka, and souvlaki.
The Blue Caves are a series of sea caves located along the northern coast of Zakynthos near Cape Skinari. Carved by the relentless force of the sea, these caves feature striking blue waters that reflect the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing play of colors. Visitors can explore the caves by boat, marveling at the dazzling azure hues and the intricate rock formations. The Blue Caves are a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, is one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Greece. Accessible only by boat, Navagio is famous for its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and the rusting wreck of a smuggler's ship that ran aground on the shore in the 1980s. Visitors can admire the breathtaking scenery, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and take memorable photographs of this stunning beach.
Zakynthos Town, the capital of the island, is a charming blend of Venetian and neoclassical architecture. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets of the old town, admire historic buildings such as the Church of St. Dionysios and the Solomos Square, and explore the Venetian Castle perched on a hill overlooking the town. The castle offers panoramic views of Zakynthos Town and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.
Prosilio restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of Zakynthos town, adjacent to Solomos Square. Whether you choose to dine in its charming garden or elegant interior with an open kitchen, the restaurant's skilled team ensures an unforgettable experience for its patrons. Local, organic ingredients are harmoniously paired with the finest culinary elements to craft distinctive and delicious dishes. Complementing the gastronomic journey is a curated wine list and delightful cocktails, adding to the overall memorable dining pleasure.
Zakanthi presents itself as a picturesque garden restaurant, offering innovative Greek cuisine dishes. Inside, the ambiance is cozy, fostering a relaxing atmosphere. The enchanting setting, adorned with candles and elegant accents, exudes a unique warmth that captivates guests. Additionally, diners have the option to savor their meal in Zakanthi's verdant garden, where they can delight in their culinary experience while gazing at the starry sky above.
Ithaca
Ithaca, the fabled homeland of the legendary Odysseus, is a picturesque island steeped in myth and history. Its rugged east coast contrasts sharply with the verdant and gentle west coast that slopes down to the Ionian Sea. The island's interior is a mountainous landscape, adorned with pine forests, cypresses, olive trees, and vineyards. Enchanting coves are scattered across this idyllic landscape, making Ithaca a true paradise on Earth.
A Tranquil Haven for Relaxation Ithaca is a serene and beautiful retreat, perfect for unwinding, peaceful strolls, and tranquil swims in emerald waters. It boasts small, secluded coves bordered by pine and olive trees, offering a sense of tranquility and serenity.
A Timeless Escape Time seems to slow down on Ithaca, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island's natural beauty and captivating atmosphere.
A Rich Cultural Tapestry The island's culture is a rich tapestry, influenced by the Italians, like the rest of the Ionian islands.
A Magical Landscape Ithaca is a magical island with breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, small caves, and picturesque ports.
Filiatro is a stunning pebble beach located near the village of Frikes on the northern coast of Ithaca. Surrounded by lush greenery and olive groves, Filiatro offers crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can relax on the beach and soak up the sun, rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and enjoy refreshments at the beachside taverna. Filiatro Beach is also family-friendly, with shallow waters ideal for children.
Vathy is the main port and capital of Ithaca, renowned for its charming waterfront promenade, colorful buildings, and bustling atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along the narrow streets lined with cafes, tavernas, and shops, explore the historic churches and museums, and admire the traditional architecture. Vathy also serves as a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island.
Gidaki is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat or via a scenic hiking trail from the village of Stavros. Nestled in a pristine cove on the western coast of Ithaca, Gidaki Beach offers powdery white sand and azure waters surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy peace and tranquility, swim in the clear waters, and explore the rocky shoreline. There are no facilities at Gidaki Beach, so visitors should bring their own supplies.
According to legend, Ithaca was the homeland of Odysseus, the legendary Greek hero of Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey. The ruins of Odysseus's Palace, also known as the School of Homer, are believed to be located near the village of Stavros. Visitors can explore the archaeological site, which features remains of ancient walls and structures, and learn about the island's rich history and mythology.
Dona Lefki is nestled in a stunning location, offering captivating views of the crystal blue waters of the Ionian Sea and the majestic sunset descending over the bay. Indulge in delectable dishes inspired by traditional Greek cuisine, expertly crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
Kastos
The island is known for its picturesque beaches and secluded coves, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in peaceful surroundings.
The main settlement on Kastos is also named Kastos, located on the southeastern coast of the island. It's a charming village with traditional whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and a relaxed atmosphere. Kastos is a great destination for those seeking a quiet and authentic Greek island experience.
The island stretches about 7 km in length and is less than 1 km wide, making it an ideal destination for hikers. While lacking high elevations, it is adorned with small green trees throughout. The eastern coast boasts numerous small coves, totaling over 15, each adorned with pebble beaches and showcasing the sea's emerald hues.
These beaches are accessible via the main road running alongside the sea, though they lack amenities. All activity centers around the port, with sporadic houses dotting the landscape. A holiday on Kastos offers the serenity of a private island getaway, with its secluded beaches.
Kastos Harbour serves as the main transportation hub of Kastos Island in the Ionian Sea, offering a tranquil welcome to visitors with its picturesque scenery of traditional fishing boats. Alongside traditional taverns and cafes lining the harbor, where you can savor local delicacies or enjoy a refreshing beverage, the harbor provides types of moorings such as anchor and stern to dock, as well as services and equipment including showers.
Ag. Emilianos beach is located on the Myrtoan Sea (part of Mediterranean Sea). This beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kastos. It offers visitors a peaceful seaside experience with its shallow waters and natural beauties. It is a small bay with crystal turquoise water and light sand & pebble cover, so you don't need special shoes.
The Windmill Taverna, situated in Kastos, is more than just a dining spot; it's an escape into tranquility. The breathtaking view and the serene silence enveloping you will make you forget everything. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the warmth of their extremely friendly host. Whether you opt for one of their delicious casserole dishes or indulge in their fresh seafood options, you're in for a treat. Additionally, they offer a selection of alcoholic beverages to complement your meal and elevate your dining experience.
Taverna Belos is a small tavern located in the port of Kastos. Its menu includes fish, seafood, casserole recipes and meat dishes. It also has a magnificent terrace where you can enjoy breakfast and coffee.
Il Porto Taverna is a charming tavern located in the port of Kastos. Offering mainly seafood, it is known that visitors are very satisfied with the delicious dishes on the menu. It is an alternative place where you can have a pleasant time accompanied by fresh products and sea views.
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