Our Local Specialist recommends: Cora from Lefkada

Cora Boef, Local Specialist on gorgeous Lefkada, is an invaluable resource during your holiday on this beautiful Greek Island.

Located between Kefalonia and Corfu, Lefkada is the fourth-largest island of the Ionian archipelago and hosts just over 23,000 full-time residents – Cora being one of them.

In this eye-opening blog post, she shares her ultimate travel tips, insider secrets and personal suggestions for planning an unrivalled holiday in Lefkada. If you're looking for a unique way to experience Lefkada, Cora's insights will inspire you to finally plan the luxury villa holiday you've been longing for.

Meet Cora

Greetings! My name is Cora. When my dear friend Lida told me that she was retiring from her position with The Thinking Traveller, she encouraged me to take over her role – and it's been a fantastic experience ever since. Sharing Lefkada's romantic villages, verdant forestland, sumptuous gastronomic traditions and vibrant culture with our guests is a pleasure I look forward to time and time again.

I am originally a Dutch citizen who fell in love with Greece and have lived happily on Lefkada for over 20 years. My parents are from Holland and Greece, so it has always felt like home to me and I am now raising my children here.

Language is one of my great passions, with Dutch, Greek and English right in my wheelhouse and when tourism slows down during the winter, I teach various languages to children. Currently, I am learning German and look forward to speaking with travellers from Deutschland very soon.

My favourite part of living on Lefkada has to be its stunning natural beauty. In the spring, my family loves to take in the scenery on day-long hikes and in the summer months, you can usually spot us sunbathing and splashing around at the beach - when I'm not busy guiding travellers all over Lefkada, of course.

Cora's picks for Lefkada

Favourite beaches

If a lovely day at the beach is what you desire, Lefkada is hard to top. On the west coast, you will find miles of sandy beach stretching below towering cliffs, while the east coast comprises spectacular sheltered bays and tranquil coves.

With so many amazing beaches to choose from, it isn't easy to pick my favourite, but if I had to, I’d say it's Porto Katsiki at the southern tip of Lefkada's west coast. The ecological beauty is unmatched, making it a popular destination in the busy tourist season. You will be led through a lush, wooded passage that reveals stunning, stark white cliffs set against azure waters. A true masterpiece!

As I mentioned before, the beaches on Lefkada are second to none, so I suggest you also explore:

• Kathisma Beach

• Gialos Beach

• Milos Beach

• Pefkoulia Beach

• Megali Petra Beach 

Favourite restaurant on Lefkada 

The stylish yet approachable Oceans in Vasiliki is my top recommendation for a meal out on Lefkada by far. Their food is original and innovative while still paying homage to the traditional Greek fare we locals know and love. The well-tailored menu features delicacies such as grilled calamari with locally produced feta cheese, succulent grilled prawns, comforting and creamy seafood risotto and my favourite – the fresh catch of the day paired with a crisp and refreshing salad.

Favourite Lefkada historical sites

The largest ancient city in Greece, Nikopolis, tops my list of historical sites in Lefkada. I am always blown away by the impressive architecture and love to imagine how these structural marvels came to be so many years ago. While exploring the archaeological site, you will have the opportunity to discover several fascinating monuments, so be sure you don't forget your camera. I would also like to mention that Nikopolis is being considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-see destination on your holiday to Lefkada.

Favourite Lefkada activities

To truly get the most out of your holiday, I'd like to suggest exploring some out-of-the-box activities and attractions on Lefkada. Here is a selection of my top picks:

• Take a walking tour - Lefkada is known for its bewitching natural beauty. Why not explore the island with a self-guided walking tour? Personally, I love visiting Dimosari Gorge and the Rachi Waterfall. Start walking right outside Nydri to enjoy a shaded trail along the river that eventually gives you a fantastic view of Dimosari Gorge. Following the rocky path, you will come upon Rachi Waterfall with its welcoming pools of invigorating mountain water - perfect for a refreshing dip.

• Yacht and boat charters - A day spent at sea upon a skippered yacht is the pinnacle of Greek relaxation. Enjoy the flexibility of discovering secluded beaches, coves and charming fishing towns, while sipping locally produced wine and snacking on a picnic lunch.

• In-villa dance classes - Delight and amaze your friends at your next big celebration by breaking out some traditional Greek dance moves. A local teacher who resides on Lefkada will come right to your villa and teach you and your guests how to celebrate the Greek way... with dance!

Lefkada’s best kept secret

Lefkada’s best kept secret is the mountain village of Karia, where you can visit the artisan shops that feature traditional embroidery, local lentils and wine or admire the beautifully designed wood and stone houses. The main square reminds you of northern Greece, with huge trees that are sure to impress and residents relaxing as they sip Greek coffee or spirits such as tsipouro and ouzo. There’s nowhere else on Lefkada like it!

The best Lefkada villas

Now that I've enticed you with a fabulous restaurant, sun-drenched beaches, loads of activities and an incredible historical site, you may be wondering where to stay during your visit. Allow me to recommend three luxury villas on Lefkada that offer unmatched comfort and amenities and are easily accessible to my favourite spots on Lefkada.

1. Madreterra

Comfortably housing up to 12 guests, Madreterra is enveloped by the fertile, pine-aromatic woods of Lefkada's northwest coast. Welcoming wraparound terraces, a stunning infinity pool and a soothing indoor Jacuzzi give way to a comforting oasis inside the villa, expertly designed for style and functionality. Easy access on foot to a glorious beach below makes this villa the total package.

And what if taking in one of the many exciting traditional Greek festivals tops your list? In that case, Madreterra is a lovely option. It is located just a 40-minute drive from Lefkada Town, home to Easter celebrations in the spring, traditional Greek weddings in August and the annual Lefkas International Folklore Festival. 

2. Noiya

Tucked away in the verdant woods of Lefkada's southwestern promontory, Noiya is located a mere 20-minute drive from my favourite restaurant Oceans. This architect-designed, cliff-top villa features a pair of pools, a private basketball court and sunsets that will stick with you for a lifetime.

Lefkada beckons – Will you answer the call?

We hope that Cora's recommendations have topped your list for your next luxury villa holiday on Lefkada. If you're ready to start planning your visit to Lefkada, please reach out to our talented and friendly team. We are on hand to answer any questions you may have and take care of all the little details, allowing you to focus on what’s important: getting excited for your Greek Island adventure.