Meganisi - the inhabited island of the Prigiponisians
Meganisi is the largest island of the Prigiponisia complex, in the Gulf of Lefkada. Unlike the neighbouring islands, such as Skorpios and Madouri, which remain uninhabited or have limited human intervention, Meganisi retains an authentic and timeless character.
With a history of permanent settlement since ancient times and a natural environment of great beauty, the island combines tranquility with living tradition. Its villages retain a strong identity and are the ideal starting point to discover this unique landscape of the Ionian Sea.
A brief presentation of the three settlements of Meganissi follows: the coastal Vathi, the central Katomeri and the amphitheatrical Spartochori.
Deep
Vathi is the most famous and busiest village of Meganissi, as it is the main port of the island. It took its name from the deep bay of the village, which offers natural protection to the ships. It is renowned for its picturesqueness, with a beautiful bay surrounded by green slopes and calm waters that host sailing and fishing boats. It is a meeting point for locals and visitors alike, who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and authentic hospitality.
It is full of life, especially in the summer months. The seaside tavernas and cafes offer great food and views of the harbour, while the village retains its traditional character, with its small shops and narrow streets. Here you can taste fresh seafood, such as octopus and fish of the day, as well as local dishes that highlight the Ionian cuisine.
Downhill
Katomeri is a traditional Greek village with characteristic architecture and hospitable inhabitants. The stone-built houses and their spacious courtyards, filled with potted plants, immediately attract the attention of visitors.
Katomeri is not a bustling town, but it exudes the feeling of an authentic village that remains untouched by modern amenities.
Apart from a few traditional tavernas, a bakery and a petrol station, you won’t find many of the tourist facilities that characterize the famous Greek resorts.
Spartochori
Spartochori, in the west of the island, is a small village with cobbled streets and beautiful alleys.
The boat that departs from Nidri (port of Lefkada) is bound for Spilia, one of the two major ports of Meganissi, which is just five minutes from Spartochori.
Built at an altitude, it offers, apart from the beautiful walks in its streets, stunning views of the harbour. Visit the “balcony” at sunset and enjoy the scenery.