Greece has long been the sailing ground of legends that many of us have learnt through literature, art and history. Greece offers excellent sailing grounds during the spring and summer seasons and the sea is littered with yachts during this time. Let’s take a look at the top islands and and places to visit on a sailing holiday in the Greek Ionian.
Corfu
Known as the Queen of the Ionian, Corfu itself is definitely worth exploring. During the summer months some of its most beautiful beaches open up and you can spend a day enjoying refreshing swims below its dramatic cliff formations. The old town of Corfu, known as Kerkya, has plenty to do and see and is known for its amazing museums, restaurants and ancient ruins. Corfu is also famous for its castles located around the island where you can walk the path of legendary soldiers and enjoy breath-taking views of the Ionian and its surrounds.
The Island of Paxos
Also known as Paxi, it’s comprised of two small islands. Paxos offers the best escape from the tourist crowds during summer. This charming island is home to small fishing towns and many harbours with aquamarine blue beaches, plenty of water sport opportunities, winding cobble-stoned streets and old churches. The food here is excellent with the fresh catch of the day determining the daily menu. Don’t forget to sample their rare island-grown fine wine!
Lefkas
Swooping hills, cliffs and dreamy beaches all come to define the natural beauty of Lefkas. The waters here are perfect in the summer and it has some of the best sailing grounds in Greece. One of the best things about Lefkas is its authentic atmosphere that is not overrun with tourists and commercialism unlike many other major Greek islands and cities. Enjoy hikes and walks in the lush pine forests, white sand beaches and enjoy exploring the old fishing villages around the coastline.
Preveza
This small fishing town is truly a delight for those looking to explore more of Greece off the map. Its best beach is Kanali beach with its long stretch of white sand and beach bars littered on the beach front. Beach goers spend hours or even the whole day as they wait for a magical sunset over the Ionian. The town itself has a rich history from the ancient Antiquity period all the way to Word War 2. It’s the only city with an undersea tunnel and connects to the nearby ancient city of Nicopolis visited by the Apostle Paul.
Kefalonia
Kefalonia is known for its intense earthquakes, wealthy archaeological finds and the famous Myrtos beach. The island remains largely uninhabited due to its destructive earthquakes that frequently ravage the island. Yet, Kefalonia draws in many tourists every summer who enjoy its mysterious beauty and beaches off the coastline. The island offers plenty of nature trails up and along Mount Ainos and around the island. The adventurous at heart will enjoy exploring Melissani Lake which leads to a deep underground water cave and further on into the vast chambers Drogarati Caves. The island also contains a life-rich lagoon which nourishes a wealth of unique and beautiful flora around the island. You can visit the Roman ruins, amphitheatre and tombs on the island and enjoy the excellent Greek cuisine and unique wines harvested from the Kefalonian Robola Grape.
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