Ionian Islands
Scattered off the western coastline of Central Greece and to the south of Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands are an island group comprising large and small islands.
Zakynthos, Ithaca, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Paxi (or Paxos) and Kythira are the seven largest and most popular islands of the group, while Antikythira, Antipaxi, Ereikousa, Mathraki, Othonoi, Meganisi and Strofades are lesser-known smaller islands, which have a lot going for themselves.
They are destinations attracting many visitors every year for a variety of reasons:
Their temperate climate, lush vegetation, beautiful mountains and breathtaking beaches will provide the perfect surroundings for your next holidays.
Nature
Over the millennia, geological transformations have helped shape stretches of awe-inspiring steep coastline, beautiful sandy shores and high mountains. Tectonic changes also account for the great depth of the waters in the region; the Calypso Deep reaches a staggering 5,267 m. depth, making it the deepest point in the Mediterranean Sea.
So, it’s no wonder that some of the wildest and most famous shores in Greece are located on this side of the country. Egremnoi and Porto Katsiki beaches on Lefkada Island, Navagio Beach on Zante Island and Myrtos Beach on Kefalonia Island are but a few of the award-winning must-visit destinations in a long list of spots with cool emerald waters.
Activities
Set sail to discover unexplored gems on the Ionian Islands; the sheltered coves and amazing sea caves, such as the Blue Caves on Zante Island and the Caves (called Grahves) on Paxi Island are impressive locations to add on your list of things to see.
If you’re lucky enough, you might spot two local protected species, the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta Caretta) and the Monachus Monachus monk seal in Zante’s marine park area.
Try water sports such as scuba diving, windsurfing and kitesurfing οn Vasiliki and Agios Giannis, Lefkada Island, hike οn Ithaca's green hinterland, visit the amazing Melissani and Drogarati Caves οn Kefalonia Island, and see the Neraida (Fairy) waterfalls on Kythira Island.
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