Looking for the perfect campsite in Ionian Islands? With Campcruisers you can easily find and book your ideal pitch. Discover turquoise, gentle, turquoise, dreams and more when you camp in Ionian Islands.

When you open your van door and the scent of wild thyme and salty spray flows towards you, you know: you have arrived in the Ionian Islands. Unlike the barren Cyclades, a lush, almost surreal green awaits you here, reaching right down to the shores of the Ionian Sea. Camping here means using the rhythm of the waves as a sleep aid and being the first to enjoy the view of the water in the morning, before the first day tourists stream out of the hotels.

The landscape is characterized by rugged limestone cliffs that drop steeply into the neon-blue water, and rolling hills full of olive trees, some of which are hundreds of years old. For campers, this region is a paradise because it is so versatile: you will find well-equipped campsites right on the beach as well as lonely mountain roads that lead you to sleepy villages. But beware: the roads can be narrow and steep, which requires a fair amount of skill, especially from drivers of large motorhomes.

The best time to travel for your road trip is May, June and September. In these months, the heat is bearable, the pitches are not overcrowded, and the sea is already or still warm enough for swimming. In midsummer, especially in August, the islands become very full and the search for a free spot can become a test of patience. In addition, the insect plague from mosquitoes is significantly lower in the low season, which makes the evenings in front of the camper much more relaxed.

An absolute highlight of every tour is Porto Katsiki on Lefkada. The white cliffs form a sharp contrast to the deep blue water. My tip: come with your van either very early in the morning or only for sunset. There is a large car park at the top where you can park for a fee during the day, but overnight stays are strictly monitored here. If you arrive on time, you can secure a spot with a view of the cliffs before the tour buses arrive.

On Kefalonia, you should definitely head for Myrtos Beach. The serpentines down are breathtaking, but caution is advised with a large motorhome. Once you reach the bottom, a beach of round white pebbles awaits you. Since there is hardly any shade here, your camper awning is worth its weight in gold. A culinary must on the islands is Pastitsada, a spicy braised dish that is particularly famous on Corfu. Look for a small tavern in the mountain villages away from the coast – that's where it tastes most authentic and the prices are fair.

If you like it a bit quieter, take the ferry to Ithaka. Odysseus' island is much less touristy. Here you can often park your vehicle in small, simple spots and explore the island on foot or by bike. The paths are narrow and lead through dense pine forests that smell wonderfully of resin.

Excursion Tip 1: The Lefkada Loop (approx. 90 km, 3-4 hours pure driving time)

Suitable for: Active couples and van lifers | Vehicle: Campervan or compact motorhome | Difficulty: Medium

This tour starts at the bridge that connects Lefkada with the mainland. Since the island doesn't require a ferry, it's the perfect entry point. First, drive along the east coast southwards towards Nidri. After about 18 km you will reach the Dimosari Waterfalls. Park your van in the shaded parking lot and walk the last few meters – a wonderfully cool place on hot days. Continue south to Vassiliki, a mecca for windsurfers. Here, after about 38 km of driving, you can take a break and watch the hustle and bustle in the harbor. The west coast is the actual highlight: from Vassiliki, the road leads uphill towards Athani. After a total of 60 km, you reach the turn-off to Cape Doukato. The road to the lighthouse is narrow but rewards you with an impressive view. The return journey leads back north via the spectacular beaches of Egremni and Porto Katsiki. An ideal pitch for the night is Camping Episkopos on the east coast, where you can relax and end the evening under shady olive trees.

Excursion Tip 2: Kefalonia's Wild North and the Melissani Mystery (approx. 50 km, 2 hours pure driving time)

Suitable for: Families and nature lovers | Vehicle: Motorhome | Difficulty: Easy to Medium

Your route starts in the port of Sami, where many ferries dock. Your first destination is almost right on your doorstep: after just 3 km you reach the Melissani Cave. Park your motorhome on the extensive grounds and take a boat tour through the underground lake – the interplay of light at midday is indescribable. An ideal base in this region is the nearby Camping Karavomilos Beach, which offers excellent infrastructure for motorhomes. From Sami, the road leads you north towards Agia Effimia. After about 12 km along the coastal road, you will pass small bays that are perfect for a dip in the water. The route continues uphill over the mountains towards Assos. After a total of around 30 km, you will see the picturesque village on a headland. Be sure to park above the town, as the alleys are unsuitable for motorhomes. The descent on foot is worth it for a coffee at the harbor. The tour concludes with the drive to Fiskardo at the northern tip. Fiskardo is the only village that survived the great earthquake of 1953 almost unscathed. The Venetian houses glow in pastel colors and invite you to stroll along the harbor promenade.

Campsites: On Lefkada, the site Camping Episkopos is highly recommended, as it offers a lot of shade from old trees. On Kefalonia, Camping Karavomilos near Sami is a first-class choice, especially if you are looking for a spot right after the ferry crossing. The sites are usually open from April to October.

Rules: Wild camping is officially prohibited in Greece. Especially in high season, this is strictly controlled and punished with heavy fines. In the low season, free standing is often tolerated as long as no camping-like behavior (awning out, tables outside) is shown. Respect nature and leave no trash. There are currently no low-emission zones on the islands, but many town centers are closed to wide motorhomes.

Supplies: Larger supermarkets like Lidl are usually only found near the main towns (e.g., Argostoli on Kefalonia or Lefkada Town). Use the small local markets for fresh fruit and vegetables. You can refill water at many gas stations for a small fee or upon purchasing fuel. Greywater disposal is almost exclusively possible at official campsites.

Insider Tip: If you use the ferry between the islands, book your motorhome well in advance. Spaces for high vehicles are limited. Ask at the port about camping on board rates – this is often possible on the large ferries from Italy to Igoumenitsa and saves you a night in a hotel.