Much of the time I travel independently, making my own arrangements. But sometimes it’s nice to let someone else do the organising, to have a more relaxing time. So I was very happy when Jet2 asked if I’d like to try one of their luxury holidays in Greece. I spent a week at the Crystal Waters on the island of Lefkas, a sun-filled break in lovely surroundings.
Disclosure: Jet2holidays provided a complimentary stay for myself and my husband in return for coverage on this site.
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Using A Local Airport
My holiday was made very much easier by the fact that Jet2 has lots of flights from Bristol Airport, a short trip by public transport from my home in Bath. Another bonus was the “Twilight Checkin” option, which allows those on morning flights to check in their hold luggage the previous evening. I certainly appreciated the extra time in bed in the morning!
The whole journey was made very simple. We flew to Preveza, and as soon as we landed Jet2’s representatives were waiting for us. And a coach was waiting to take us to our hotel on the island of Lefkas.
The Island Of Lefkas
Lefkas (or Lefkada), is a small island in the Ionian Sea. Although it is technically an island, it is connected to the mainland via a long causeway and a floating bridge. It is small but beautiful, with tall mountains, beaches and tiny coastal villages. And it has an astonishing variety of plants – apart from the colourful flowers that grow absolutely everywhere I spotted trees laden with lemons, quinces and even pomegranates.
Many visitors are attracted by the possibility of sunbathing, water sports and boat trips. But for those who want to explore there are traditional villages, wineries and the historic Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni. You could also cross to the mainland and explore the region of Epirus. Wherever you go you can enjoy excellent Greek food cooked with the freshest ingredients.
The Crystal Waters At Nikiana
Our hotel was the Crystal Waters, a “luxury island retreat” just outside the small village of Nikiana. It has a prime location, situated on a slope between the sea and the mountains. The site is a pleasure to walk around, with its white walled rooms and paths lined with colourful flowers and fragrant herbs. And the staff are very friendly and attentive.
Crystal Waters is a complex of 146 rooms and suites. The rooms vary in size and facilities: some have private pools and some of the larger suites are ideal for families or groups. But they are all stylish and beautifully designed. We stayed in a Rozoli double room which was spacious and comfortable. It had everything we needed including a shady balcony with a view of sea and mountains.
Eating And Drinking At Crystal Waters
We enjoyed a Greek breakfast in the Emerald Restaurant each morning, a plentiful and varied selection of hot and cold food. The restaurant was also open for lunch and dinner, serving a mixture of Greek and international food, all imaginatively cooked and presented. (I thought the fruit pavlova with yoghurt and coconut ice cream was particularly inspired!)
You could get snacks – and a full range of drinks – at the pool bar. And room service meals and drinks were available.
Enjoying The Resort
For many visitors the main attraction is the hotel’s three pools, with loungers and a bar (you can even swim up to the bar if you don’t want to leave the water). Beside the lower pool is a small kids’ area with giant chess pieces, table football and a ping pong table. There is also a spa where you can enjoy a relaxing massage, facial, or other treatments.
From the hotel it is an easy stroll to Nikiana, where you’ll find bars and shops. The village has an attractive port area, with restaurants, boats and beaches. One restaurant that is particularly recommended is Porto Nikiana.
Exploring The Island Of Lefkas
If you want to see everything that Lefkada has to offer your best option is to hire a car (motorbikes, scooters and bicycles are also possibilities). Alternatively you can use taxis, or take the bus to Nidri, where you can choose from a range of excursions and boat tours. Nidri is also a good centre for water sports.
We went by bus to Nidri, and hiked along a pleasant inland path to the famous Nidri waterfalls. And a bus in the opposite direction took us to Lefkada Town where we wandered the streets of the old town and walked across the causeway to the medieval castle of Santa Maura. On another day we took a taxi to the Lefkaditiki Gi Winery for a tour and tasting.
(Note that you will need cash for the buses, and that not all taxis take credit cards.)
Need To Know
- Jet2 flies from 10 regional airports, as well as London Stansted, so you can find a convenient starting point for your holiday wherever you live.
- Flights to Preveza depart from 5 different airports.
- Package holidays to Lefkas are available at a choice of resorts on the east coast of the island.
- The Jet2holidays free Twilight Checkin service is available at most airports, but do check in advance. And note that you will need to have already checked in online and obtained your boarding passes to take advantage of this service.
