Lefkada is paradise and was attached to the mainland until a canal was cut in the 7th century BC. Now it is reached by road over a pontoon swivel bridge. The heavy Venetian fortification of the north coast, some of which remains, was not enough to prevent the Ottomans taking it in 1479; their tenure lasted about two centuries. The island is mountainous and very fertile, lush with olive grooves and vineyards and traditional villages. The west coast is rugged, the east sheltered, with calm beaches. Some of the low-lying area are marshy. Photo by: *Malela*

The main town, also named Lefkada, in the far north, was badly hit by earthquakes. Now is in an attractive working town, rebuilt with low-rise buildings, narrow lanes and arcaded streets. Southwards, past a few small fishing ports and pebble beaches, lies Nydhri, the most highly developed resort town. It has good beaches and a lovely setting overlooking small satellite islands. Boat trips tour these – some are privately owned. Further south, several fine bays enclose quieter resorts of fishing villages. Vassiliki, is a charming little harbour, situated on a huge windy bay with shade trees and tavernas. The breezy beach at Pondi, a little west, is visited by vast numbers of windsurfers. Photo by: june_godiva

The rocky west coast is dotted with lovely beaches. Most accommodation here is in village rooms and campsites. The southern most point, Cape Lefkatas, is also known as Sappho’s Leap.Windsurfing – Vassiliki is home to some of the Europe’s best windsurfing. The beaches – the most southerly beaches on the west coast are with dramatic white cliffs and turquoise water among the loveliest in the world. Photo by: Spuma

When to go: May, June and September. Population: 22, 500 (2001). How to get there: By road from the mainland; inter-islands ferries. Photo by: sunset92