Lefkada

Unique among the Ionian islands, Lefkada is joined to the Greek mainland by a causeway and a small floating bridge across the shallow Santa Maura channel, meaning you can simply drive across rather than catch a ferry. That accessibility, combined with a west coast fringed by some of Greece's most celebrated beaches, has made it a favourite for road-trippers and beach lovers alike.

The island's western shore is its showpiece. Below chalky white cliffs, beaches such as Porto Katsiki, Egremni and Kathisma stretch beneath dramatic bluffs, their water an almost unreal milky turquoise. The scenery is wilder and more mountainous than many visitors expect, with pine and cypress covering the interior and traditional villages like Karya, famous for its embroidery, tucked into the hills.

The main town, Lefkada, sits by the bridge and blends Venetian layout with distinctive earthquake-resistant houses clad in painted metal and timber. In the south, the resort of Vasiliki and the sheltered bay of the same name form one of Europe's premier windsurfing spots, where reliable afternoon winds draw watersports enthusiasts each summer. Nearby Nydri is the departure point for boat trips to the tiny green islets offshore, including Skorpios, once owned by the Onassis family, and lovely Meganisi.

May, June and September are the best months to visit, offering warm seas, quieter beaches and comfortable temperatures for exploring. July and August are hot and busy, particularly on the west-coast beaches and around the windsurf bays, though the island rarely feels overwhelmed. Spring is green and flower-filled, while winter is mild but sleepy.

Because no ferry is required, Lefkada is one of the easiest Ionian islands to reach: fly into Aktion (Preveza) airport just across the water, or drive down from the mainland. A car is well worth having to reach the far-flung west-coast beaches and hill villages. For a mix of spectacular coastline, watersports and effortless access, Lefkada is hard to beat.