How far is Exanthia from the nearest beaches and what are they like?
Exanthia is a mountain village, so it's not directly on the coast. The closest popular beaches, like Kathisma and Avali, are on the west coast and are roughly a 15-25 minute drive away. Kathisma is a long, organized beach with sand and shingle, beach bars, and watersports. Avali is more secluded with pebbles and a relaxed vibe. Other nearby beaches on the west coast include Kavalikefta and Megali Petra near Kalamitsi village, known for their wild beauty and rock formations. The roads to some of these western beaches can be narrow and winding.
Is Exanthia a good base for a beach holiday in Lefkada?
Exanthia can be a good base if you prefer a quieter, traditional village atmosphere with stunning sunset views and don't mind driving to the beaches. It offers a more authentic Greek village experience compared to coastal resorts. However, if your priority is to be within walking distance of a beach and have many amenities at your doorstep, a coastal village like Agios Nikitas or Vasiliki might be more suitable. Exanthia provides good access to the famous west coast beaches by car.
What are the driving conditions like to the beaches from Exanthia?
The roads from Exanthia to the western beaches involve navigating mountain roads which can be narrow, steep, and winding in places. For example, the road to Kalamitsi beaches (Kavalikefta, Megali Petra, Avali) is known for being particularly narrow and requiring careful driving. While generally paved, some final stretches to more secluded beaches might be gravel or less maintained. It's advisable to drive cautiously, especially during peak season when traffic increases.
Can you swim at the beaches near Exanthia? What is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at the beaches near Exanthia. The west coast beaches, such as Kathisma, Avali, Megali Petra, and Pefkoulia, are famous for their stunning turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The seabed often consists of pebbles or a mix of sand and pebbles. The water can deepen relatively quickly on the west coast, and waves can be present, especially when the north-west wind picks up. Mornings are often calmer.
Are there accommodations in Exanthia with easy beach access?
Exanthia itself is a mountain village, so no accommodations offer direct walking access to beaches. However, many villas and apartments in Exanthia provide stunning sea views and serve as a convenient base for driving to the west coast beaches, typically within a 15-25 minute drive. If easy, walkable beach access is a priority, you would need to look for accommodation in coastal villages like Agios Nikitas.
Are the beaches near Exanthia family-friendly?
While the west coast beaches near Exanthia are stunningly beautiful, they might be less ideal for very young children compared to the calmer, shallower waters on Lefkada's east coast. West coast beaches often have pebbles, can deepen quickly, and may experience waves. Kathisma is more organized with some amenities, which can be helpful for families. However, for a more classic family-friendly beach experience with calm waters, beaches on the east side of Lefkada, like those near Lygia, Nikiana, or Nydri, are often recommended, though they require a longer drive from Exanthia.
Are there any nudist beaches near Exanthia?
Yes, some beaches on Lefkada's west coast, accessible from Exanthia, are known to be nudist-friendly or have sections frequented by nudists. Mylos beach, Kathisma (often a part of it), Pefkoulia, Gialos, and the northern part of Gaidaros beach (near Avali and Kathisma) are sometimes mentioned in this context. Megali Petra, being more secluded, might also attract nudists. These are typically unofficial nudist spots.
What's the best way to get to Mylos beach from the Exanthia area?
To get to Mylos beach from the Exanthia area, you would first drive to the village of Agios Nikitas. From Agios Nikitas, Mylos beach is accessible either by a water taxi service that departs from the village's waterfront or by a footpath over the hill. The walk takes about 20 minutes and offers scenic views but can be steep.
Are there beach bars and sunbeds at the beaches near Exanthia?
It varies by beach. Kathisma is well-organized with numerous beach bars, restaurants, and sunbed/umbrella rentals. Avali beach has a canteen/beach bar and some sunbeds for rent, especially in peak season. Pefkoulia also has some facilities. However, more secluded beaches like Megali Petra or parts of Gialos may have limited or no facilities, offering a more natural experience. It's always a good idea to bring your own water and snacks if heading to a less developed beach.
Which is better for a beach holiday: staying in Exanthia or Agios Nikitas?
Choosing between Exanthia and Agios Nikitas depends on your preferences. Agios Nikitas is a picturesque coastal village with its own beach and easy water taxi access to Mylos beach. It offers more immediate beach access and a resort feel with tavernas and shops. Exanthia is a traditional mountain village offering tranquility, stunning views (especially sunsets), and a more local experience, but requires driving to all beaches. If being right by the sea is paramount, Agios Nikitas is better. If you prefer a quieter base with character and don't mind driving to explore different beaches, Exanthia is a great choice.
What are some hidden gem beaches or quieter alternatives accessible from Exanthia?
While the main beaches on the west coast are popular, from Exanthia you can explore slightly less crowded options. Avali beach, though gaining popularity, can be quieter than Kathisma, especially on weekdays. Gaidaros beach, located between Kathisma and Avali, is also known for its calmness. Megali Petra, accessible via a footpath from Kavalikefta (near Kalamitsi), offers a more rugged and natural experience with fewer crowds due to its more challenging access. Exploring the smaller coves around Kalamitsi can also lead to quieter spots.
What is the sand like on the beaches near Exanthia?
Most beaches on the west coast of Lefkada, accessible from Exanthia, feature a mix of coarse sand and fine to medium-sized white pebbles. For example, Kathisma has sand and shingle, while Avali is known for its white pebbles. The 'sand' is often described as rice-like grains. Purely sandy beaches are less common on this side of the island compared to the dramatic pebbly shores and turquoise waters.
What's the vibe like at the beaches near Exanthia?
The vibe varies. Kathisma is cosmopolitan and lively, with beach bars, music, and activities like paragliding. It attracts a younger crowd and families. Beaches like Avali or Megali Petra offer a more relaxed, natural, and sometimes wild atmosphere, appealing to those seeking tranquility and unspoiled scenery. Pefkoulia can have a mix, with some organized sections and other areas popular with free campers. The west coast generally offers dramatic landscapes and vibrant turquoise waters.
When is the best time to visit beaches near Exanthia to avoid crowds?
To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting the beaches near Exanthia during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and October). If traveling in peak season (July and August), going to the beaches early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. More secluded beaches like Megali Petra or parts of Gialos will naturally have fewer people than highly organized ones like Kathisma.
Is it safe to swim if there are big waves on the west coast beaches near Exanthia?
Caution is advised when there are big waves on Lefkada's west coast beaches. The seabed can shelve steeply, and strong waves can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Some beaches may not have lifeguards. It's best to assess the conditions carefully before entering the water, especially if you are not a strong swimmer or are with children. If the north-west wind is strong, the waves can become quite significant.
