The Beauty and Crazy Roads of Lefkada
Sea colours as fifty-shades-of-blue, thyme honey, warm sand in between the toes, freshly grilled calamari on the plate, and white-washed windmills in the background. Yes, the Greek coastal life is addictive, and not only in the summertime.
Lefkada, called Lefkas by the locals, is often referred to as “the nature island”. Long, breathtaking beaches and high mountains stretch through this beautiful Ionian island, located between Corfu and Kefalonia. Connected with a small stretch of land to the mainland, Lefkada is still very wild, so please prepare for adventurous turns while driving. Also be prepared to use some creative parking skills, especially close to the sea coast, where it can get very over-crowded in the summertime.
Delicious Foods in Lefkada
Olives and olive oil production accounts for 50% of the island agriculture, mostly because of its unusual landscape and lack of water for irrigation. The locals also produce a bit of beans and lentils, almonds, and “patrino” table-grapes. Not a lot of fruits grow here due to the mountainous relief, however figs are not a rare summertime find.
Fish and seafood are abundant, and are usually prepared and served with garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil. The Lefkada Slowguide wisely recommends trying the seasonal local snacks to get to know the local cuisine. In winter try boiled crabs, served hot and with their eggs. During the spring have tiny, wild, artichoke hearts, boiled and served hot. If you visit in the summer, there is their famous roasted corn sold as street food, and the small bunches of chickpea plants with occasional fresh green on stems.
My personal tips:
Be sure to take a boat trip to the big and small islands around from Lefkada. Stroll through Nydri in the evening before and after dinner. Sip on a drink in the cozy village of Vassiliki, or admire the fantastic blue shades of the Ionian sea with a big bag of fresh figs, either at the famous Porto Katziki or at any other beach you spot! And don’t be shy to ask the locals for their favourites, it’s one of best way to discover some hidden gems.
Ever wonder how they harvested olives? Watch this short video to find out (it’s pretty cool)!
[youtube width=”1140″ height=”800″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73oeJS2nKYk[/youtube]
Jana is a real fruit-junkie (watermelon being her favourite) and a big (goat-)cheese-lover. She speaks six languages next to her mother tongue Bulgarian and is in love with gourmet discoveries while travelling, diving and sunshine-catching.