12 of the best beaches in Lefkada

Lefkada is widely considered one of the best beach destinations in the world, with the likes of Kathisma, Porto Katsiki and Egremni regularly featuring in top 10 beach compilations and a loyal set of fans flocking to its shores every summer. No surprises there. Its waters are clean and exotic (some of the best in the Ionian Sea), set against a wild backdrop of white vertiginous cliff faces that are carpeted in pine, olive, and fir trees. Getting to Lefkada is easy by plane (Aktion airport is close by) or car (it's connected to the mainland by a bridge).

Lefkada: The sparkling gemstone of the Ionian

You're bound to have seen photographs of Lefkada's world-famous beaches. But when you arrive, you'll quickly realise that they're even better in real life. Lefkada (or Lefkas) is easily accessible, hospitable and lively - a recipe for the perfect summer holiday. Kathisma, Egremni, Porto Katsiki - amongst the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean - have won international acclaim and are awarded annually with Blue Flags. Windsurfing, kitesurfing, paragliding, scuba diving, flights in a prop plane, horseback riding, mountain biking, sailing around the surrounding islets, like Skorpios... there's no end to the activities on offer here on one of the most beautiful Ionian islands.