Lefkada, one of the Ionian Sea’s most treasured and popular islands, is home to the serene and sophisticated coastal village of Sivota. Tucked into a natural harbor surrounded by verdant hills and the deep blue sea, Sivota is a quiet yet vivid gem.
Whether you are charmed by peaceful retreats or drawn to its array of outdoor or culinary experiences, Sivota offers a complete and rewarding escape from the ordinary for travelers seeking both luxurious comfort and unspoiled natural beauty.
When in Lefkada, staying at a luxury villa is simply not enough. What truly makes a luxury stay in Lefkada lies in the details; the nature that unfolds, the unique tastes, the experiences that will remain unforgettable.
Staying at Sivota, Lefkada
Sivota’s appeal is elevated by its premium accommodation options, none more inviting than Iris Villas Lefkada, a refined estate that boasts two exclusive Lefkada villas: Villa Marine and Villa Karavi. Perched on a hillside overlooking the endless Ionian blue, these villas offer the perfect balance of seclusion and elegance. Each luxury villa comes with its own private infinity pool, giving guests uninterrupted views of the sea and sky.
The properties are designed for ultimate privacy and comfort, with private access to the sea, sun-drenched terraces, and minimalist luxury interiors. Whether you’re sipping wine at sunset by the pool or waking up to the sound of waves just below your suite, Iris Villas ensures your stay is both rejuvenating and unforgettable.
Walking around the coastal village of Sivota
Strolling through Sivota is a delight for all the senses. The harbor is the heart of the village, bustling in the summer with sailboats, yachts, and cozy waterfront tavernas. Cobblestone paths lead you past small bakeries, cafés, and local shops selling handmade crafts and Greek delicacies.
In the evening, the village lights up with a warm glow, and the air fills with the sound of clinking glasses, laughter, and soft Greek rhythms. The laid-back rhythm makes the area ideal for a slow walk by Sivota’s sea, with a view that stretches into a sky painted with Ionian sunsets.
Visiting a few local beaches
Sivota serves as a perfect base for exploring some of Lefkada’s most breathtaking beaches. Just a short drive away, you’ll find Afteli Beach, a small and quiet cove known for its turquoise waters and pebble shoreline – ideal for snorkeling and relaxing.
Not far is the stunning Ammouso Beach, a crescent of white pebbles framed by rocky cliffs and olive groves. It’s well-organized with a beach bar and sunbeds, yet still retains a wild beauty. For the more adventurous, Mikros Gialos and Desimi Beach offer crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings perfect for kayaking or a serene swim.
Indulging in Lefkada’s delicacies
No visit to Sivota is complete without diving into Lefkada’s rich culinary scene. The village offers a range of tavernas and seafood restaurants serving fresh-caught fish, octopus grilled to perfection, and local specialties like egklouvi lentils, kokoras (rooster) in wine sauce, and tsigareli – a spicy dish made with wild greens.
Sweet endings come in the form of pasteli (sesame and honey bars) and mandolato, a nougat dessert native to the Ionian Islands. The best meals are those enjoyed at a table beside the sea, with the scent of salt in the air and a glass of local wine in hand.
Enjoying Greek wine at its finest
Western Greece has its own indigenous grape variety: Vertzami. This deep red wine is robust, slightly spicy, and pairs beautifully with local meats and cheeses. In and around Sivota, many tavernas proudly serve wines from local wineries, offering you a taste of the island’s oenological heritage.
For wine lovers, an excursion to a local winery in Lefkadian can be a highlight – where passionate producers will guide you through their vineyards and offer tastings with a view over rolling hills and olive groves.
Hiking across natural sceneries
Beyond the beaches and luxury villas, Sivota is surrounded by verdant hills and ancient footpaths waiting to be explored and some of the most beautiful sceneries of Lefkada to capture. Hikers can enjoy panoramic trails that wind through olive orchards, forests, and scenic ridgelines. Along the way, you might encounter several small chapels and old stone bridges.
Spring and early summer are ideal for hiking, when wildflowers are in bloom and the temperatures are perfect for long walks. A popular route leads from Sivota to the mountain village of Evgiros, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea and nearby islands like Ithaca and Kefalonia.