Grammatoula

Eight self-catering units in the quiet harbour village of Nikiana, Grammatoula sits on Lefkada's eastern coast where the channel between the island and the Greek mainland stays calm enough for kayaking most of the season. Upper floors are stairs-only, so rooms at ground level suit guests travelling with young children — baby gates and socket covers are already in place.

Each unit runs as a full apartment: stovetop, refrigerator, kitchenware, dining table, and a coffee machine keep guests out of restaurants when they choose. Balconies and a shared sun deck face the water, and outdoor dining tables make the most of Nikiana's unhurried pace.

Leftkada Town is roughly six kilometres north, with the causeway bridge and its weekly Saturday market. Nidri, the island's main resort strip, sits four kilometres south — close enough for a taverna dinner, far enough to stay off the noise.