Ionian Islands
Ionian Islands
The idyllic scenery of the Ionian islands, a blend of the finest hues of green and blue, will seduce you with its unparalleled beauty, unique cultural experiences, and gourmet dining. Explore the hidden caves, sheltered coves, fairytale waterfalls, and vibrant towns by treating yourself to an unforgettable holiday on board one of our fantastic yachts for charter in the Aegean sea.
As close as one can get to experiencing heaven on Earth, the turquoise seas and lush nature of the most verdant of Greek islands are just waiting for you to hop on board and sail away to your perfect summer escape.
The relaxing beaches are known as some of the most stunning in Europe, while traditional villages offer the feeling of traveling back in time. The mountains are just brimming with life, and are bejeweled by bountiful cypresses and olive trees.
Corfu
Almost as if the finest architects of Europe competed in who will leave a more majestic mark on the island, the cosmopolitan Corfu is laced with the renaissance, baroque and classical buildings created by Venetians, the French, and the British.
The capital town of Corfu deserved its status as a UNESCO-protected heritage site with an exquisite mix of the finest Greek lifestyle and Parisian charms. Wander the cobblestone streets to absorb the intriguing views of the sapphire blue seas from the Old and New fortress - and don't let the name of the latter confuse you, since it dates back to 1578.
The Campiello is the medieval heart of the town, just inviting you to explore the history-soaked allies and stop by a cafe to have some strong Greek elliniko coffee or shop for art in one of the many galleries that can be found in the area. Just staying in this Ionian ille one can really experience the whole world - The Palace of St Michael and St George is one of the main attractions, built in 1815 by the British, and now houses a splendid Museum of Asian Art. Almost 40 greek orthodox churches offer a glimpse into the local culture, while Liston is the most elegant part of the town owing its allure to the Venetians who began founding the neighborhood, only to be updated by the French who gave it its final mark.
Sail away to visit Pontikonisi, a minuscule island that can only be reached by boat, and was created when Poseidon transformed Ulysses' ship to stone according to Greek mythology, to see a 12th-century Byzantine monastery shaded by cypress trees.
For a real romantic gesture, swim across the Canal d'Amour - the legend says couples who do this will soon get married. The dramatic, tan rock formations form an unforgettable scenery - the bravest of divers are often seen jumping off cliffs to the crystal clear waters.
Those more attracted to sandy beaches will surely love the never-ending shores of Blue Flag Issos Beach.
Lefkada
A true oasis for yachting aficionados, this stunning island offers a myriad of secluded beaches one can only reach sailing the azure indescribable. North you'll find one of Greece's most comfortable marinas, Lefkas marina, which serves as a wonderful starting point to explore the numerous islets with cascading waterfalls or serene bays.
Virgin nature meets the finest luxury in this stunning Ionian gem. The small village of Agios Nikitos hides one of the most stunning sandy beaches and still boasts a few very traditional houses.
Southwest you'll find the Porto Katsiki, a true spectacle of sparkly pristine waters and perhaps the most emblematic beach of the gorgeous Lefkada island. The white steep cliffs provide a wild backdrop to the electric blue seas and long stretches of golden sand.
Egremni beach is a secluded treasure and its sea is crowned as the bluest on Earth and is also one of the most photographed, just perfect for a day of lazy sun-soaking.
Promenade along the picturesque harbor of the lively Nidri town. Numerous taverns, ouzeries, and seafood restaurants will make for a lovely stroll, while the surrounding nature is just within reach. What was once a quiet fishing village, saw a metamorphosis when Aristotle Onassis bought the nearby island of Scorpios in 1963. It was only after falling in love with Nidri that he decided to do so, and he benefited Nidri so much, the locals even built him a statue. While you're here, make sure to visit the Dimosari waterfalls. A 15-minute walk, as you pass by gorgeous lands and ponds, will lead you to discover one of the most idyllic sights Lefkada has to offer. If the shade provided by surrounding plane trees doesn't prove to be enough, cool in the natural pool that is formed around the spectacular waterfalls.
Ithaca
One of the most famed places in Greek mythology, Ithaca is perhaps most known for being the land of Odysseus. After exploring the lush greenery and emerald seas, you'll see why Homer was so determined to go back to his island - it wasn't just Penelope that needed him home.
The stunning island is dotted with gorgeous beaches, peaceful villages, hiking trails, and bountiful anchorages to best explore the finer things in life.
Vathy is one of the most picturesque places in Ithaca, but also the center of activity. Spreading out like an amphitheater, the lovely capital of the island is located in the inmost part of the gulf that carries the same name, dating back to 1500 AD. The strong Venetian influence has left a polished mark - the tilted roofs of charming houses and impressive villas team together with shade provided by cypress and oak trees and result in the irresistible charisma of Vathy. The traditional harbor is just a hallway to the miraculous nature that surrounds it.
The perfect place to enjoy a private summer escape, Ithaca is less burdened with overwhelming tourist crowds than some of the surrounding islands - you'll enjoy many secluded coves and beaches as you sail the glittery seas. While Filiatri beach might be the most popular - due to the shallow, azure waters and good infrastructure - Skinios, Marmaka, and Gidaki are the best choices for those reluctant to share the waters with tourists.
Kefalonia
The golden sand beaches and azure seas leave an almost mirage-like impression on anyone visiting this island of endless allure. Perhaps the most unspoiled nature of the area is certain to amaze you as you explore Kefalonia. The largest of the Ionians is perhaps the best-kept secret among sun-chasers.
The northernmost point of the island is home to the stunning coastal village of Fiskardo, where Venetian influence, pastel-colored houses bejeweled with Mediterranean flowers and aquamarine seas team up to provide a perfect scenery that lures the yachting crowd each year. It served as a set in Captain Corelli's Mandolin - as featured in the film, many of Kefalonia's buildings were destroyed in the 1953 earthquake, but fortunately, Fiskardo was spared. The village to this day is one of the rare places in the Med that preserved its natural beauty while acquiring a very cosmopolitan, polished feel.
Dine at Votsalo Restaurant & Cocktail Bar to enjoy a romantic evening in some high-end ambiance overlooking the shores.
Zakynthos
One of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in Greece, Zakynthos shares similar traits to the neighboring islands, but the skyscraper cliffs that surround the gorgeous beaches really set it apart. A stunning example of this is Navagio beach, which was even proclaimed to be the best beach on Earth in 2018. The 200 meters tall cliff surrounds a beautifully sheltered cove, providing some really spectacular sights.
Laganas is great to visit when you find yourself in the mood for some fun soirees. The vibrant sandy bay is famous as a party hotspot sizzling with bars and attracts a lot of visitors for spectacular nightlife and followed by lazy days spent swimming and sunbathing on the azure beaches.
Agios Sostis offers a completely different approach than nearby Laganas - the quiet beach is the perfect spot to experience a more laid-back atmosphere, but also visit Turtle Island where you can spot seals and turtles to complete your Ionian adventure.
Kythira
The most remote island of the Ionians is the lovely Kythira, where you can enjoy an authentic setting surrounded by supreme Mediterranean sights.
Perhaps the most iconic sight of the island is the Venetian Castle above the island's capital. The panoramic view from the castle is perfect to enjoy the sunsets. But, those looking to escape the crowds and sail away to secluded beaches will find Kythira to be a dream destination.