Ionian islands kayak, hike & wild camp

"Sea kayak, snorkel, hike and explore the most beautiful and remote islands in the Ionian…"

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Itinerary

DAY 1: PADDLE ALONG THE SCENIC COAST OF LEFKADA TO ‘BLUE CAVE’ & REMOTE BEACH
Meeting at our base in Vassiliki. We’ll start with a briefing on the week’s activities and you’ll have the chance to check all the provided gear. Provisions will be arranged and loaded on your kayaks. As soon as you paddle away from the protected bay, you’ll appreciate why Lefkada is famous for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, which get their stunning color thanks to the abundant limestone. You’ll discover that these limestone rocks have given way to many caves along the shores.

You’ll paddle towards the ‘blue cave’, the entrance of which is well-hidden, where the sun, sea and earth all combine to create a wondrous spectacle! A great spot for a swim and a break! You’ll continue paddling along the south coast of Lefkada till we reach a gorgeous small beach – an ideal place to camp for the night. The day will end with a barbecue under the starry sky.
DAY 2: DISCOVER THE LARGEST SEA CAVE ON THE WAY TO MEGANISI
After visiting the picturesque bay of Sivota for some last provisions, you will embark on your first open sea crossing southeast, towards laid-back Meganisi. Today’s attraction is Papanikolis cave, the 2nd largest sea cave in Greece, named after a submarine that was hidden there during World War II. According to local folklore, the cave provided shelter to locals hiding from pirates and other marauders but also to all kinds of boats during bad weather.

Time to snorkel and explore the cave which measures 120 meters in length and 60 meters in width. Inside, you’ll be treated to the dazzling sight of sunlight bouncing off the crystal clear water, casting a mesmerizing blue shade all over the cave walls and stalactites. Rest and light lunch at the sandy beach at the far end of the cave, before jumping back in your kayak and finishing the day at a remote cove close to the south tip of Meganisi. Barbecue and solitary atmosphere away from the crowds.
DAY 3: EXPLORE KALAMOS, A PARADISE OF SECLUDED BEACHES
Continue towards the south tip of Meganisi and explore amazing caverns and coves. Paddle between Meganisi and its small satellite island Kithros, before your second open sea crossing towards the lush green island of Kalamos. It will captivate you with its emerald waters and wild beauty. As you approach, the island will remind you of a volcano as it boasts a mountain of pyramidal shape which reaches 745m. Kalamos is overgrown with olive trees, lentisks, coumarins, laurels and the unique royal pine which reaches the sea.

Kalamos has a rich history dating back to ancient times and due to its strategic location, it played an important role in the war of independence against the Ottomans. Reaching Kalamos, our first stop is going to be Porto Leone, a protected cove where the first capital of the island was originally situated. There are ruins of Byzantine churches, windmills and fortresses, remnants of a flourishing past.

After a light lunch and swim you will continue your paddle northbound, discovering the east side of the island. The best beaches of the island are situated on this side and are only accessible by sea – a paradise for kayakers! After a long but rewarding day, you will reach Agrapidia beach and its famous tavern Voskopoula for a well-earned meal. Today you will have the luxury of sleeping and resting at a lovely, traditional guesthouse!
DAY 4: REST DAY
Relax during the day and, in the evening, hike and explore the island!
DAY 5: STEER TOWARDS THE SMALLEST INHABITED ISLAND IN THE IONIAN
Today you’ll steer your kayak west towards the low, elongated island of Kastos. The island has only 50 permanent residents. It consists of low hills – the highest does not exceed 150 meters. While its west coast is steep, its east side has many small beaches where you can stop and relax. You’ll stop at the picturesque port of Kastos for lunch and provisions. Walk and explore the island which is overgrown with centuries-old olive trees. Visit the well-preserved windmill whose mechanism is intact and the private Marine Museum “Home of the Fin whale”, where you’ll learn about the magical marine life that hides in the Ionian sea.

Later, you will paddle a bit south along Kastos’ beautiful coast to pitch our camp at the beautiful Pisina beach. Enjoy a delightful meal on the beach.
DAY 6: OPEN SEA CROSSING TOWARDS MEGANISI
Today you’ll have an early start as you embark on another long crossing towards Meganisi. You’ll first reach the south tip of Kalamos and then you’ll cross over to the south tip of Meganisi. Dolphin spotting is always a possibility and the more time you spend at sea, the more chances you have to spot them. In comparison, an encounter with a variety of coastal birds such as gulls, shags or Great cormorants is guaranteed.

After an exciting day you’ll stop at a solitary and protected bay where you’ll rest, enjoy a delicious meal and sleep, far away from civilisation. The perfect ending to such a full and exhilarating day!
DAY 7: RETURN TO LEFKADA AFTER EXPLORING TINY ISLAND
After a hearty breakfast and a final dip in the sea, you’re homeward bound. Paddling north, along Meganisi’s west coast you will enjoy a delightful lunch break at our favourite tavern of the island! On the way to Lefkada you’ll explore the beautiful tiny island of Thilia. Your self-powered sea kayak expedition will end at the chilled beach of Desimi. Transfer to your guesthouse to rest before our farewell dinner!

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