Navigation guide Ionian Islands

The Ionian Islands, it is a multitude of creeks of white pebbles as well as a beautiful turquoise water. We only dream of one thing: plunge your head first! And to add an asset to this already magnificent show, know that the Ionian Islands have a large number of caves accessible by swimming, snorkeling or boating.

In Corfu, the featured beach is without hesitation Paleokastritsa. There, you have an appointment with this beautiful blue lagoon surrounded by olive trees. Nearby, stop at La Grotta which, as its name suggests, is hidden in a cave. With a mask and a snorkel, you can admire the beautiful colorful fish. For an intimate atmosphere, go to Paxos and Antipaxos. Hundreds of creeks offer great opportunities for swimming and diving.

Before leaving, make a stop at Zakynthos, in the bay of the shipwreck whose panorama is of indescribable beauty. The experience is unusual because on this beach, accessible only by boat, is a huge wreck. But what was the purpose of this boat? Could it be a cigarette contraband ship, led by the Italian mafia? Come to discover it!

The Ionian Islands have more to show than creeks! Indeed, the archipelago has a rich past, which makes it very interesting to visit. The Venetian, French and British settlements left behind castles, temples and monasteries. Result: a unique atmosphere, particularly visible in terms of culture, architecture and cuisine.

Immerse yourself in this melting pot in Corfu where cultures cohabit harmoniously. In the old town you can admire the typical Venetian alleys and architecture. The authentic Greek taverns are mixed with French-style dishes and British manners. The capital of the island is very lively with its shopping streets in which we enjoy strolling and its terraces where we love to relax in the sun!

In Ithaca, you have an appointment with history, especially Homer's Odyssey! Visit the beautiful monasteries and churches of the island, as well as the beautiful medieval village of Anogi perched on the mountain.

It is also a land of traditions including the celebration of Easter. It is even said that living this holiday in the Ionian Islands is an experience to live at least once in his life! So do not miss the traditional pitch jugs.

The archipelago is an ideal destination to indulge in all sorts of leisure activities. During your sailing cruise, prolong the sensations by devoting a few afternoons to these activities.

While Corfu is ideal for hiking and swimming, windsurfers and kitesurfers can head to Lefkada and the beaches of Vassiliki and Myli, some of the best spots in the Mediterranean. Sailing is very pleasant in these waters and the kayak. It's up to you to find the many caves that line the coast.

As in the rest of Greece, diving is an activity of choice in the Ionian Islands. Zante is home to the first Marine National Park of Greece, where you can see some turtles and beautiful colorful fish.

For those who prefer cycling or hiking, each island offers beautiful walks through mountain trails and coastlines. If not, try the basic jump to the island of Zante and fill up with thrills and magnificent views of the island.

Ionian cuisine tells a true story, with its tasty and cosmopolitan dishes. Venetian, French and British roots are easy to guess, mixed with Greek flavors. To immerse yourself in the Ionian culture, nothing is more simple than to settle on the terrace, to appreciate the comedians and traveling singers, around a good traditional dish.

In Corfu, the typical dish is sofrito, a piece of veal stewed with garlic and parsley. A delight of French origin! On the main island, do not miss a walk to the market early in the morning to taste some dishes, enjoy the fruits, vegetables and fresh fish and especially the Greek atmosphere. The other specialties of the island are also ginger beer and kumquat liqueur, Asian citrus grown in Corfu. For a delicious meat pie, head to the island of Kefalonia, while Zante's specialty is salsa, a meat stew with cheese.

The Ionian Islands have a lot of fish dishes like bourdeto, a spicy fish stew. With the Venetian influence, there are also many pasta dishes such as pastitio. The archipelago is also known for its wine, as the mild and rainy climate lends itself to viticulture. Lovers of James Bond, you've probably heard of Theotoki Aspro, a Corfu wine that the secret agent orders in Nothing for Your Eyes.

Move away slightly to discover small islets all around and incredible bays with blue waters: Meganissi, Prigkinipossa, Kastos, Skorpios, it is nice to sail there!

A trip to the Ionian Islands means hopping among the islands and discovering them as you go. Our advice: build a route that allows you to see a majority of islands without being a marathon. Sail in the Ionian Islands while relaxing! On board, you will enjoy an unforgettable panorama of white, blue and green.

Start with Corfu, the main island. A discovery straddling culture, nature and beach awaits you. Then join Paxos and Antipaxos, where the seas of olive trees are offered to you. What a beautiful sight of the sailboat!

The rest of the trip takes you to Lefkada to admire breathtaking landscapes with the white cliffs that plunge into the turquoise water. Go to the lighthouse of Cape Lefkada enjoy the magnificent view of the Ionian Sea.

Then, cast off for Ithaca in the footsteps of Ulysses. Stroll through the harbors and relax on the beautiful beaches of the island before heading back to another destination. This other destination is none other than Kefalonia, of exceptional beauty. The arrival by sailboat is surprising with the Venetian castle and its expanses of pine trees overlooking the coast.

Finally, the last stage takes us to Zante, also called Zakynthos. This very festive island enjoys an incredible nature with green landscapes. The interior of the island is also charming with picturesque villages.