Lefkada is renowned for its unforgettable azure sea that enchants every visitor to the island. It boasts many small intricate villages and is rich in mountainous and rugged landscapes that hide small villages with authentic stone houses. On Lefkada, you will find numerous monasteries, beautiful viewpoints, and wild nature. In moments when you wish to take a break and rest from the sun and the beach, we recommend indulging in exploring the beauties of the mainland of the island and visiting the archaeological and phonographic museum in Lefkada, the folklore museum in Karya, Faneromeni Monastery, some of the around 60 churches, and traditional villages like Athani, Dragano, Tsoukalades, as well as many others that we will mention below.

Egluvi is one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Lefkada. It is located about 3km from the largest village on the island, Karya, and is situated at an altitude of about 700m, making it the inhabited place at the highest point of Lefkada. The village is known for its lentil production, so every August 6th, one of the most unusual celebrations on the Ionian coast is held right here, dedicated to lentils. On that date, after the evening service at the Church of Saint Donatos, a traditional festival takes place during which the local population prepares and offers lentils cooked in a cauldron, salted sardines, olives, bread, homemade wine, accompanied by music and dance.

The village of Exanthia is located on the northwestern part of Lefkada island. It is built on the hillsides and protected from the northern winds. In this place, you can find the church of Agios Stefanos built around 1850, which is one of the oldest on the island. The small asphalt streets evoke ancient times. In the village and its surroundings, there are several old churches that can be visited. The houses in the village are built of stone in a traditional style, mostly single-story. There are several taverns in the village and around ten villas. The village offers a great view of the Ionian Sea, and the sunset is a special experience. Here you can also find the famous restaurant in the clouds, Rachi.

The village of Chortata is located on the western coast of Lefkada island. It is one of the most beautiful mountainous places at an altitude of 645m with an incredible view. It is only 7km away from the village of Kalamitsi. It is known for numerous springs that provide drinking water to the locals throughout the year.

About 7km from Vasiliki is the mountain village of Agios Petros. It offers an excellent panoramic view of Vasiliki Bay. Agios Petros is characterized by old houses and narrow winding streets. The village center has a small square, several taverns, a mini-market, and a bakery. The village church is located near the main village street. The houses in this village are built in an amphitheater style on the mountain slopes and surrounded by lush vegetation.

On the northwestern part of Mount Pirgos is the village of Frias (Asprogerakata). The general characteristic of this place is the numerous wells that were created during the Turkish era, from 1478 to 1684. In the Frias settlement, there is an old winery founded in 1929, which belongs to the Lefkada Agricultural Partnership. Here, the famous local wine is still produced.

South of the Frias settlement, in the heart of Lefkada island, lies Karya. Karya is the main town of the Karya municipality in the Lefkada district. It is built amphitheatrically at the foot of Mount Mega Oros (1,012m) and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. In this village, you can find the church of Agios Ioannis built in 1605, with frescoes dating back to 1736. Karya is a traditional mountain village of Lefkada with a large number of old houses and a characteristic square in the heart of the village where centuries-old plane trees provide great shade. There is also the church of Agios Spiridonas from the 19th century… Here you will find great taverns with a relaxing atmosphere if you visit Karya. On the surrounding hills, you can see large trees and thousands of evergreen species such as pines and firs. In the streets of Karya, you will also see traditional stone and wooden houses. The people in the village are engaged in traditional lace and carpet making, which you can buy in local shops.

Lazarata is located on the northern part of the island, about 7km from Lefkada, at an altitude of 550m. It is known for the churches of Agios Dionysios and Agios Spiridonas, which are about 150 years old.

The village of Spanohori is built amphitheatrically and is located east of the Lazarata settlement. This small village is characterized by cobblestone streets and old houses, as well as the Monastery of Prophet Elijah. From this point, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Ionian coast, and sunsets are a special experience for all visitors.

Accommodation on Lefkada you can see HERE.

You can find all the information about vacationing on Lefkada in our guide:
General information
Travelling to Lefkada
Food and Drinks
Beaches
Places
What to See Shopping