Easy to reach yet blissfully unspoilt, the Ionian island of Meganisi brims with olive groves and step-back-in-time charm. Stretch out on one of the pristine pebble beaches and you’ll hear the peaceful ebb and flow of turquoise waters lapping at the shore.
In each village you’ll find family-run tavernas serving local seafood and fresh vegetables. Here are five of the best places to stay in Meganisi.
1. Nema Villa
The villa has a fantastic location, the views are amazing and it is very spacious. The owners are very friendly and helpful and the cleaning is excellent. I would definitely recommend this property!
A short hop across the sea from Lefkada, Meganisi is an unspoilt island of myriad idyllic bays, heavenly pine-fringed beaches and a buzzing harbour village. A stay on this magical isle is all about soaking up the gentle, relaxing pace of life and discovering the stunning landscape. And where better to experience this than in a luxury, private villa with sweeping ocean views?
Ideally located on Atherinos in Meganisi, Nema Villas is only about 10 minutes’ drive from Cave of Papanicolis. It offers free private parking on site and accommodation with a seating area, a flat-screen TV and a kitchen. Its private bathroom features a walk-in shower and a hair dryer.
The modern and functional rooms at Nema Villas feature mountain and garden views. They are equipped with a mini bar, a refrigerator and a stovetop. They also have a washing machine and a private bathroom with a hairdryer.
Guests at the property can enjoy a relaxing swim in the pool or take advantage of the barbecue facilities. They can also explore the surrounding area with the many water sports on offer.
The restaurant on site serves Mediterranean, healthy and Greek dishes. For those who prefer to dine out, there are many eateries nearby. The friendly staff at the front desk are available to offer local information and recommendations. Cancellation, prepayment and ‘book now pay later’ policies vary according to room type. Please check the individual room policy for further details. This property does not accommodate hen, stag or similar parties.
2. Nema Studios
The small island of Meganisi offers a range of accommodations, from simple self-catering studios to luxury private villas with pools on the hilltops. Visitors can choose to stay in Spartochori or Vathy, the island’s main villages, or they can book a hotel in one of its many traditional and scenic coastal villages. Meganisi is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. Its rugged terrain is home to several hidden coves and secluded beaches, and its rich cultural heritage includes many historic sites and landmarks. Visitors can explore the island’s traditional villages, hike its rugged landscapes, or simply relax on one of its pristine beaches.
Guests staying at Nema Studios will find themselves within easy walking distance of the island’s best restaurants, bars, and cafes. The property is also conveniently located close to the nearest beach and public transport links. The accommodation features a variety of modern facilities, including an outdoor pool and free WiFi access in all areas. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s on-site restaurant, which is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
The island of Meganisi is easily accessible from the mainland by ferries and private boats that depart from Lefkada or Kefalonia. Visitors can also fly into the Aktion National Airport on the mainland and rent a car or take a bus to the ferry terminal in Nydri, where they can travel to Meganisi by sea. The ferry ride takes around five hours and is a great way to see the stunning scenery of the Ionian Islands. The price of a ticket varies by season and route, but it can be as low as €20 per person.
3. Nema Apartments
Located on the beautiful island of Meganisi, Nema Apartments is a great option for travelers who want to enjoy stunning panoramic views and explore the area’s beaches. The complex is modern and fully equipped with amenities like a terrace, private parking, and free Wi-Fi.
Guests can choose from a variety of studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments that are designed for comfort and convenience. All units come with a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen TV, a spacious balcony, and a bathroom with a shower and toiletries. Some units also have a washer and dryer.
The property’s amenities include an outdoor pool, rooftop terrace, multiple lounges, a 24-hour fitness center, and more. Guests can also take advantage of the community’s concierge service, which offers a wide range of services, including package delivery and grocery pickup. In addition, the property has a dedicated staff member who is available to assist with any questions or concerns.
Nema Villas are a short drive from Cave of Papanicolis and offer a private beach and an outdoor pool. They are also close to a number of restaurants and shops. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean, healthy, and Greek meals at the on-site Niagas Restaurant. They can also enjoy some drinks at the on-site bar.
The apartments at NEMA are uniquely equipped with a workspace you won’t find in other rentals. Each one is fitted with a height-adjustable desk, an ergonomic chair, an ultra-wide monitor, a Blue Yeti microphone, and a green screen for video calls. This workspace has everything you need to stay productive during your trip to San Francisco.
4. Azur Retreat
This modern seafront boutique hotel in Meganisi aims to delight couples, families and experiential travelers looking for an island sanctuary with quality comforts and conveniences. Its name, Azur, is derived from the azure of the Ionian Sea and Greek open sky and reflects its contemporary design that is harmonious with the natural environment.
The resort is a little bit different to the rest of the island; for one thing, it’s not very touristy. There are no sleek rooftop restaurants or beach bars serving bottle service here, and the locals here don’t seem to want you to stay long enough for them to forget what life was like before you arrived. Instead, there’s a quiet routine that unfolds each day, from the early-dawn hum of fishing boats to the mid-morning delivery of peaches and sleepy afternoons where locals play backgammon under tables and slinky stray cats nap at their feet.
While the island is sprinkled with villas and apartments, it’s hard to find anything better than a place like this. You’ll find yourself waking up to the sound of waves gently lapping against the shore and falling asleep under a starry sky, where you can wake up with the sun rising behind you.
If you’re on a budget, check out the Teacher’S House, which has an outdoor pool and offers spacious rooms starting at just 121US$ per night. It’s also within walking distance of Private Beach, and is just a short drive from Odyseas Marina. Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, try the 4-star Keromoussi Seaside Boutique Hotel – Adult Only, which boasts an infinity pool and is just a 15-minute walk from Pasoumaki Beach.
5. Azur Villa
With its ethereal beauty and rugged landscapes, Meganisi is one of the most enchanting Greek islands. Located off the coast of Lefkada, it is home to pristine beaches and a handful of traditional villages. From historic landmarks to adventurous outdoor pursuits, this tiny island is a trove of unique sights and experiences that will leave visitors completely enchanted.
The best places to stay in Meganisi range from small, self-catering studios in the village of Spartochori to luxury private villas with spectacular sea views perched on the hillside. Most of the accommodation on the island is within walking distance from the port of Vathy and Spartochori. The villages offer limited tourist facilities but are picturesque and serene.
While most couples choose to scoot or drive, it is a much better experience to walk through the streets of the island and explore the beautiful churches, tiny houses, and sunbeaten roadside shrines. A great way to take in the natural beauty of this stunning island is by visiting its pristine beaches, including Fanari Beach. The true jewel of Meganisi, this beautiful beach is renowned for its breathtaking surroundings and crystal-clear waters. The coastline is not sandy, in keeping with the island’s characteristic charm, but instead adorned with round stones that feel pleasant underfoot.
Located near the bay of Limonari, Azur Villa is a boho luxury resort that has been designed to provide guests with a unique and memorable holiday experience. The brand-new modern seafront boutique hotel offers world-class comforts and amenities for discerning travelers who want to enjoy an authentic island escape. Amphitheatrically perched, all suites feature sweeping views of the sea and unobstructed vistas. Guests can relax in elegant living spaces or step outside to their private deck terrace and immerse themselves in the refreshing water of their private pool.