If you are planning your stay in one of the luxury villas in Lefkada, you are in for a treat. This stunning island in the Ionian Sea is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, gorgeous beaches and breathtaking scenery. However, were you aware that many other islands in the Ionian Sea are also worth exploring? So by choosing to indulge in what we like to call island hopping on the Ionian Islands, with Lefkada as your base, you can easily discover nearby gems while enjoying an unparalleled experience of natural beauty that is almost impossible to find anywhere else.

One of the best ways to experience island hopping in Lefkada is by staying in a private villa. Yet, a private villa offers the very best of both worlds – the absolute privacy and comfort you need to recharge your batteries for the adventures that lie ahead. You can enjoy the amenities of a luxurious home whilst still having the perfect place to return to after your Ionian Sea Island hopping venture.

Our villas are in some of the most scenic areas of the island. From secluded hilltops to prime coastal locations, there are plenty of options available for you to choose from. You can opt for a private villa that is close to the main town of Lefkada or go for a more remote spot offering complete peace and tranquility. Starting from there, you can conveniently explore nearby islands, such as Meganisi, Kalamos, Kastos, Kefalonia and Ithaca, all of which hold their unique charm. Let’s break them down!

Located southeast of Lefkada, Meganisi is a small island located within a very short distance from Lefkada. This secluded gem is ideal for those who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. With its sparkling waters and beautiful coastline, Meganisi is a must-visit for anyone staying on Lefkada Island. Its small beaches and coves create a heavenly setting that captures the senses of every sea enthusiast.

Further east, Kalamos island emerges as a spot of serenity in the Ionian Sea, offering a retreat for those seeking communion with nature. With its rugged coastline and verdant landscapes, Kalamos invites adventurers to explore its hidden coves and winding trails. Whether you are basking in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun or trekking through its lush forests, Kalamos promises an unforgettable journey.

Nearby, Kastos island exudes an aura of tranquil simplicity. Here, time seems to slow to a gentle rhythm, inviting visitors to deeply relax. From leisurely walks along its quaint harbor to diving into the crystalline waters teeming with marine life, Kastos offers calm, where one can truly reconnect with the essence of life itself.

No Ionian Sea Island hopping could ever be complete without a visit to the island of Kefalonia. Located south of Lefkada, it is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is well-known for its magnificent beaches and picturesque villages. From the famous Myrtos Beach to the charming village of Fiskardo, Kefalonia provides an ideal spot for every traveler.

Close by, Ithaca is widely recognized for its outstanding historical significance – more specifically, it is mentioned as the home of Ulysses in the emblematic Homer’s Odyssey. Apart from its ancient history, Ithaca is also famed for its picture-perfect beaches and crystalline blue waters. A trip to Ithaca is the ideal addition to any Ionian Sea Island hopping itinerary.

These are some unmissable suggestions but there are many other small island gems on the way, where to stop for a midday swim in turquoise waters. Considering Skorpios, the legendary private island of the Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis, a destination of great natural beauty and tremendously interesting history, where many celebrated figures, such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis and the one and only La Divina, Maria Callas, have passed through. The island is private but you can have access to Jacqueline Kennedy Beach.

For those with a taste for adventure, the coast of Lefkada offers access to uninhabited islets that promise unparalleled natural wonders such as Kythros, close to Meganisi. Among these hidden gems is also Fermikoula, a rocky island with a wide variety of marine sea life and great snorkeling spots. Atokos, with its ‘One House Bay Beach’, offers a tranquil escape amidst lush landscapes and a pebble beach stretching half a mile. A playful and memorable twist to the pristine beach setting, blending tranquility with a sense of adventure, is the fact that you can swim with pigs which have become friendly with visitors who feed them! Arkoudi island enchants with its untouched beauty, where rugged terrain meets clear waters, inviting adventurers to reconnect with nature’s raw splendor.

When planning your Ionian Sea Island hopping escapades, an essential factor to consider is transportation. There are many agencies that offer island hopping tours for a day trip from Lefkada island. Most of them are in the port of Nydri. Look for one that provides small group tours with knowledgeable and experienced guides who can share valuable insights into the fascinating history and culture of each of the islands.

If you prefer to travel on your own, some islands are also accessible by ferry, like Ithaca and Kefalonia, or water taxi, like Meganisi, with departure from Lefkas town, Nydri or Vasiliki ports. If you wish to travel for a longer period and distance, “Lefkada Palace” is a ferry boat that connects the Ionian Islands of Corfu, Paxos, Lefkada, Meganisi, Ithaca, Kefalonia and Zante. While some islands are easily accessible by ferry or water taxi, others may require you to hire a private yacht. If you are staying in one of our luxury villas in Lefkada, your villa manager will be able to assist you in arranging transportation for your island-hopping experiences.

In conclusion, Island hopping on the Ionian Islands is an experience like no other. The Ionian Sea offers some of the most beautiful sceneries in Greece, featuring turquoise waters and lush green hillsides. A private villa in Lefkada or Meganisi makes the perfect starting point for your adventure, with a high level of privacy and comfort. With wonderful nearby islands just waiting to be discovered, there’s no better time to start dreaming about island hopping on the Ionian Islands.