Paradoxically, Meganissi means “large island” in Greek. It is the largest of six little islands to the east of Lefkas but measures just twenty square kilometres with a population of around 1,200.

Regular ferries travel from Lefkas Town and Nidri on Lefkas, past Onassis’ island of Skorpios and on to the sheltered port of Vathy, where fishing boats and visiting yachts moor alongside the waterfront houses and tavernas. Just inland lie the two sleepy villages of Katomeri and Spartohori , where narrow streets of cobblestone pass whitewashed houses, a few shops and a selection of tavernas.

Spartohori enjoys dramatic views across the sea to the mountains of the Greek mainland and has two minimarkets. Katomeri, one kilometre from Vathy Port , is the peaceful capital of the island and has a series of narrow streets with courtyards of flowers, traditional tavernas and a bakery.

A coastal road winds through a beautiful landscape of olive groves and pine trees, where the remains of ancient windmills and threshing floors can be found, and leads to secluded bays and beaches.

Boat hire is recommended to explore the island’s coastline and to get closer to Lefkas' offshore islands including Skorpios.

Life on Meganissi is slow and simple. The lifestyle of friendly farming communities and peaceful, natural surroundings will appeal to those wanting a rarely found escape from built up resorts.

• Abelaki Bay
• Limonari
• Port Vathy
• Spartohori