Beautiful Ionian Islands

Among the 3000 inhabited islands of Greece,there is a small group of seven, known as the Eptianissa or Ionian Islands, located just off the western seaboard.

It is not surprising that one of the world’s most enduring and romantic epic stories, Homer’s Iliad, is centered on these captivating landscapes of rugged mountains, green hills and the ever present turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

Over the centuries these islands have developed their own culture and identity, partly through their periodic occupation by foreign powers such as the Venetians, the Turks and the British, but also as a result of their rich natural environment and the intimate association of their inhabitants to the land and the surrounding sea.

Each island is unique unto itself, varying not only form the rest of Greece but from its neighbours. The islands are Kefalonia, Ithaka, Lefkada, Corfu, Paxos, Meganisi, Parga, Skopelos, Alonissos, Skiathos & Pelion. Here’s some information on three of these beautiful islands.

Kefalonia

Home of Ionian & Aegean Island Holidays, Kefalonia is the largest, most varied of the seven Ionian islands. It’s easy to understand why so many visitors return year after year, as there really is something for everyone; dramatic mountains, stunning coastline, green valleys, secluded bays, havens of solitude and some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Ithaka

Ithaka is virtually two separate islands, split in two by a narrow hill ridge at Aetos. The north has superb beaches, interesting walks and the timeless small fishing harbour of Kioni. The south boasts the port of Vathy, one of the most idyllic seafront settings in Greece. The west coast of Ithaka is rough and ragged, while the east is typified by rolling hills and farmland.

Lefkada

Known as the White Island, Lefkada is wild in the west, with perfect beaches, a turquoise sea and rugged mountains above fertile eastern valleys. Inland, flower strewn hill villages nestle in lush, green pine forests. The rural tradition of centuries lives on in unspoilt villages amongst vineyards and olive groves.