Also known as “Lefkas”, Lefkada is distinct in that it requires no ferry or boat journey to access it – instead, you simply drive over a causeway a short distance from Prevaza airport on the mainland. Part of the Ionian Islands, mountainous Lefkada is densely forested (providing welcome shade when it’s hot) and has some beautiful beaches that are virtually empty during the shoulder seasons. Compared to better-known Greek islands , Lefkada remains crowd-free and uncommercialised (there are no international hotel brands here yet), so keep the secret to yourself.
It’s also a good jumping-off point for celebrity magnet Meganisi, where you can visit Fish Taverna Errikos for lunch. Madreterra Villa Built by owners Peter and Olga as their “dream home”, Madreterra is part of The Thinking Traveller collection of sophisticated villas across Greece , Italy and France. Available to rent between early April and the end of October, Madreterra is situated on the remote western side of the island down a long windy road through olive groves (rent a small car for those hair-pin bends).
Probably the most enviable place to stay on the island, the stone villa has six bedrooms (two with sea views) and seven bathrooms, meaning it can comfortably host up to 12 people. Highlights include the infinity pool (with three different depths – ideal for kids), outdoor dining area and barbecue kitchen, as well as a verdant fruit garden with lemon and apricot trees. What’s more, the beaches o.
