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South Ionian

The mainland town of Preveza has a rich cultural history waiting to be explored. Take your fill of the ancient sites and stroll along the harbour, visiting a traditional Greek taverna before continuing your voyage south. Lefkada, connected to the mainland by a floating bridge, offers an abundance of sights and warm local hospitality. The cosmopolitan island town of Lefkas has a lively nightlife with bars by the lagoon and a bustling square with great selections of mouth-watering souvlaki and gyros. Nidri is also a popular tourist town with plenty of bars and restaurants. Further south on Lefkada, is the village and peninsula of Geni with peaceful anchorages and lovely waterfront tavernas so close to the sea their tables are scattered along the small piers. Sail on to anchor in Rouda Bay and take a dinghy ashore for the best fish restaurant in the area, Zolithros.

Meganisi is a beautiful little island close to Lefkada. Its pebbled, secluded beaches are perfect for picnics and barbecues and easily accessed by picturesque walking paths. The village of Little Vathi is quaint and beautiful with traditional cuisine, entertainment and cocktails, while Port Atheni harbours a charming taverna nestled in the quiet bay. The island’s historical landmark is Papanikolis cave, the second-largest in Greece and believed to be a hideaway for the WW2 Papanikolis submarine. It can only be accessed by boat, where you can dive into the aqua waters and swim with scores of friendly fish.

Ithika, the serene, mountainous home of Odysseus, symbolises the return to a haven. Kioni is arguably the most beautiful harbour in the Ionian, surrounded by imposing sea cliffs. The magical bay has three unique windmill ruins that can be spotted standing sentry at the secluded entrance. A little further, the approach by sea to the Port of Vathi is truly a memorable experience. The beauty of the gulf is breathtaking, and the Monument to the Sailor is the first sight as you approach the quay. This symbol of seamanship reflects the tremendous maritime history of Ithika, from the epics of Homer to Greece’s modern struggles for freedom. There are hiking and biking trails aplenty in the lush mountains, and scuba diving and sea kayaking are recommended, with the Cave of the Nymph a tantalising attraction. The traditional cuisine features ancient dishes such as savoro (savoury fish fillet fried in vinegar, raisins, rosemary and garlic) and sweet rovani (sweet cake with honey and rice).

Kefalonia is the largest Ionian Island with much to offer, from breathtaking waterfronts to beautiful castles and monasteries. Attracting thousands of visitors, the world-class beaches include Antisamos, Skala, Lourdas and Myrta. The seabed is rich in marine life and will satisfy the snorkellers and divers who desire to experience the delights under the water. Pastel-coloured Venetian buildings and hot-pink bougainvillea harbour vibrant local activity where dancing, drinking and dining are the order of the day. For wine lovers: the family-owned boutique winery, Gentilini, is located in Kefalonia’s Minies village. They produce robust wines using the isle’s distinctive Robola grape.