One of the best months to visit the Ionian Islands is the month of September. Bringing balmy, warm days and evenings coupled with a slower pace of life on the islands, it is welcomed by all after the heat and rush of the high season in August.
In September the islands sees mostly couples and those seeking a break outside the school holiday period, when there are attractive offers for both flights and accommodation to be found.
The famous south-west coast beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni become almost deserted by mid-afternoon and you can enjoy the feeling of being closer to nature and the azure blue waters as your personal beach front.
It is the perfect time for exploring the island; set off and discover little lanes that wind through hillside lined with olive, cypress and plane trees. Take the walk from Nidri to the waterfalls at Rachi or why not rent some bicycles and cycle to the pretty chapel of Agia Kiriaki on the Geni peninsula.
For the more energetic there are paddle board and kayak cruises, wind and kite surfing schools and of course sailing. The image of the waters between Nidri and the off shore islands dotted with the white sails of yachts is synonymous with Lefkada.
The sailing season cumulates in the third week of September annually with the Southern Ionian Regatta. A plethora of yachts set off from the Meganisi channel and race to be the first to cross the finish line in Sivota bay. Afterwards there is music and evening of celebration to enjoy for everyone.
The restaurants and owners all have time to stop and chat with guests, taking time to swap stories and give a little of that ‘Filoxenia’ great hospitality that the Greeks are famous for.