Unearthing Meganisi, The Untouched Greek Island

We’ve all done trips to Greece (if you haven’t, you must!). But then again, what new can you find there when you do a trip back there after a good 5 – 10 years since you last did there. That’s exactly what we set out to find Greek island hopping – and what did we find? Something even we hadn’t expected to see – an island that was hidden from the eyes of most prowling tourists, which had a feel of the Greeks as they were around 30 years back.

The island in question here is the Meganisi. It is a small island which is nestled in the region around the Lefkas. The setting is that of transparent water; perhaps more transparent than any other water you will see in the whole of the Mediterranean.

There are a whole of 3 villages housed on this island; but the most interesting of them all is Spartochori. It has a number of beautiful views to offer. You might just get entwined by the labyrinth of narrow and the courtyards that are vine shaded; which end up giving the region an essence that it is true to itself.

You will commonly see donkeys walking past; with the loads of heavy burdens to bear. The women will find their seating at the doorsteps of their houses; where they are surrounded by the scent of jasmine. You will commonly see the men wandering back home from the fields. All this makes for the visual impact that an old-school village has to offer.

Try speaking a word or two in German; and you’ll see their faces burst into smiles that spell ‘WELCOME’.

The extent of ‘untouched’ is evident from the fact that it has but one public taxi; not even a single cash machine and no one almost accepts credit cards. If ‘Wow’ was what you thought; then we’re with you.

Exploring Meganisi

The island of Meganisi is extremely small and doesn’t have a population of anything more than 2000 people. The entire stretch of the island will come up to less than 4 miles; and hence is easy to get around.

The surprising bit is that there is a lot to explore even in this small stretch. The softness of the natural beauty can have a soothing effect on your eyes and soul. The central hills that spawn over the region make for quite a visual treat; and you’ll notice footpaths winding into every corner along the way.

The best way to get around would be on a hired moped or bike. Better yet, you choose to just walk.