Athani Beaches

Overview

Athani, a charming mountain village in the Ionian Islands, serves as an excellent gateway to some of Greece's most spectacular beaches. While not directly on the coast, its prime location on Lefkada's western side places you moments away from world-renowned shores. Many visitors choose Athani for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Ionian Sea, especially the magical sunsets.

From Athani, you can easily explore legendary spots. The world-famous Paralia Porto Katsiki mesmerizes with its dramatic cliffs and vibrant turquoise waters. Nearby, Egremni offers an expansive, unforgettable experience with its iconic white cliffs. For a convenient and often less crowded day by the sea, Gialos Beach is Athani's closest large beach, offering plenty of space. If you're seeking a more energetic atmosphere, Paralia Kathisma provides lively fun with beach bars and water sports.

The beaches near Athani are celebrated for their stunningly clear, turquoise waters, though the sea can deepen quickly in some areas. Access to some of these coastal gems, like Egremni, can involve a descent, adding to their secluded charm. Athani truly is a fantastic starting point for discovering these iconic Ionian beaches. For a wider selection of coastal destinations in the area, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Athani a good place for a beach holiday?

Athani is considered an excellent base for a beach holiday, especially for those looking to explore the famous west coast beaches of Lefkada. While Athani itself is a mountain village, not directly on the sea, it offers close proximity to world-renowned beaches like Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Gialos. Many accommodations in Athani also provide stunning panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and magical sunsets.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Gialos Beach

What are the closest beaches to Athani village?

The nearest beaches to Athani village are Gialos Beach (approximately 3-4 km), Egremni Beach (approximately 5-7 km), and Porto Katsiki Beach (approximately 7-11 km). These are some of the most famous and beautiful beaches on Lefkada island.

Gialos Beach

Egremni

Paralia Porto Katsiki

How do I get to Egremni beach from Athani?

To reach Egremni beach from Athani by land, you follow a scenic, winding road south of the village. After parking, there is a walk of about a kilometer followed by a descent of approximately 400 stairs. As of 2021, the road and stairs have been restored. Alternatively, Egremni can be visited via boat trips.

Egremni

Are the beaches near Athani suitable for families with children?

While the beaches near Athani like Porto Katsiki and Egremni are stunningly beautiful, they can present challenges for families with young children. Access often involves steep descents with many stairs, and the sea can deepen quickly with strong currents at times. Gialos beach is very long and might offer more space. Vasiliki Beach, a bit further away (around 4-14km depending on the source), is known for shallower waters and is often recommended for families. Agiofili beach, also further south, has calm, shallow waters ideal for children but can get crowded.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Gialos Beach

Vasiliki Beach

What kind of accommodation can I find in Athani for a beach holiday?

Athani offers a range of accommodations, including apartments, studios, guesthouses, and villas. Many of these provide panoramic sea views and are popular with travelers seeking a quieter base close to the famous west coast beaches. Options cater to various budgets, from more affordable stays to boutique hotels.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What is the water like at the beaches near Athani?

The beaches on the west coast near Athani, such as Porto Katsiki and Egremni, are famous for their remarkably turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The water is often described as 'milky blue' or 'Caribbean-like'. The sea can deepen suddenly, and there can sometimes be strong currents, especially at Egremni.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

When is the best time to visit Athani for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Athani is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for swimming and enjoying the beaches. The water temperature is also perfect for a refreshing dip. However, this is also the peak tourist season.

Do I need a car if I stay in Athani to visit the beaches?

Yes, having a car is highly recommended if you are staying in Athani and want to explore the nearby beaches and other parts of Lefkada. Athani is a mountain village, and while it's close to famous beaches, they are not within easy walking distance. Public transport options can be limited. The roads to the beaches can be narrow and winding.

People Also Ask

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni?

Porto Katsiki typically has sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, along with canteens for refreshments. Egremni, on the other hand, is known for its more natural state with limited or no facilities like sun loungers and waiter service; visitors usually need to bring their own shade and supplies. Gialos beach may have some canteens and sunbeds in the central part during summer, but also offers plenty of natural, unorganized space.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Gialos Beach

Which beach near Athani is less crowded?

Gialos Beach is often mentioned as being less crowded than the more famous Porto Katsiki and Egremni, despite its beauty and length. It offers more space and private spots. Avali beach, accessible from Kalamitsi village, is also known for being less popular among tourists and usually not crowded.

Gialos Beach

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Avali Beach

Is it difficult to drive to the beaches from Athani?

The roads leading from Athani to the famous beaches like Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Gialos are generally paved but can be narrow, steep, and winding with hairpin bends. Driving requires care, especially during peak season when traffic increases. Parking can also be challenging at popular beaches.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Gialos Beach

Are there any nudist-friendly beaches near Athani?

Gialos beach, being long and offering private spots, is sometimes mentioned as having areas suitable for naturists, particularly at its southern end. Milos beach, though further north, is also known to be nudist-friendly.

Gialos Beach

Milos

What is the sand like on the beaches near Athani? Is it pebbles or sand?

The beaches near Athani vary. Porto Katsiki is described as having golden sand or a mix of sand and white pebbles. Egremni is known for its golden sand and fine white pebbles. Gialos Beach is a mix of sand and shingle, and can be pebbly or rocky in places. Vasiliki Beach is partially rocky and sandy, or has white pebbles.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Gialos Beach

Vasiliki Beach

Can you swim at Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches?

Yes, swimming is popular at both Porto Katsiki and Egremni due to their crystal-clear turquoise waters. However, it's important to be cautious as the sea can deepen suddenly, and currents can sometimes be strong, particularly at Egremni. Egremni is not always recommended for families with small children due to these conditions and the steep access.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

What is there to do in Athani village itself, besides going to the beaches?

Athani is a traditional mountain village known for its panoramic sea views, especially at sunset. Visitors can explore the village, enjoy local cuisine at tavernas, and purchase local products like thyme honey, olive oil, and wine from roadside stalls. Nearby attractions include the Cape Lefkatas lighthouse and the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos.