Staff Blog: Debbie’s holiday in Lefkada, Greece

Sometimes you just know when you need a proper switch-off holiday. After a busy few months, I was more than ready for one - and Lefkada delivered exactly what I was hoping for: peace, privacy and picture-perfect views.

This Ionian Island has been on my list for years. I’d helped my hairdresser book a villa there a while back, and she came back raving about it. I had to see what the fuss was about. Safe to say, I wasn’t disappointed.

We flew BA from Heathrow to Preveza with Ionian Island Holidays, who organised our flights, car hire and villa. The drive from the airport to Ligia in Lefkada took about 40 minutes and was easy - though I was very happy my partner handled the driving! The flight itself was a treat too, with stunning views over the Eastern Alps and the islands of Croatia as we headed south.

Our car was a lifeline. While our villa was walking distance to shops and tavernas, the steep hillside meant the car came in handy. That said, we still walked to dinner five out of seven nights.

We stayed at Villa Mostra, perched up on a hillside with its own private pool and uninterrupted views across to the mainland. First impressions? Quiet perfection. The light, bright villa was spotless, well-maintained, and came with a lovely welcome tray so there was no rush to head out for supplies.

It had everything we wanted: total privacy, a peaceful setting and easy access to local tavernas and Lefkada Town. If you’re looking for relaxation, this was it.

This was very much a holiday without a schedule. We did as much (or as little!) as we felt like each day.

Most evenings, we dressed up a little and strolled to a local taverna to try something new. Our absolute favourite was Kollokas in Katouna - a bit of a hike uphill, but well worth it. One night we found a fish taverna right on the front (the name escapes me!) where blues-rock music kept us there for hours under the stars.

Days were spent exploring at our own pace. We loved Lefkada Town with its mix of colourful boats, sailing crews grabbing breakfast and charming little shops and bars. It had a buzz but never felt overly touristy or crowded.

The west coast drives were breathtaking. Dramatic cliffs, soft sandy beaches, and the turquoise water at Kathisma with waves crashing ashore - definitely a highlight.

Another day we wandered through a local whitewashed village and enjoyed a lazy afternoon at a typically Greek taverna. We also explored Nidri, a lovely boating centre with ferries and scenic tours to places like Meganisi.

Back at the villa, the telescope became a bit of an evening ritual as we watched distant shipwrecks and gazed out over the glittering water.

Everywhere we went, the welcome was warm. Locals in the tavernas were happy to chat and share stories about the island. It was exactly the laid-back, friendly atmosphere we were hoping for.

I have to say, Lefkada really struck the perfect balance for us. It felt authentic and unspoilt, with just the right amount of everything you could want: privacy, comfort, good food and endless views.

I think Lefkada is ideal for couples or families wanting independence but with plenty to explore.

A short flight, great weather, your own pool, a car to roam the island, gorgeous beaches and a good mix of peaceful villages and lively harbour towns. There’s even the option to hire boats if you want to venture out on the water.

For anyone who just wants to relax, recharge and soak up the beauty of Greece without crowds or pressure - this is the one.

We have plenty of ideas and contacts to help you find your own perfect villa escape in the Ionian Islands. Just ask!