The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the user.
ESPA 2021–2027
The development of Ionian Ilios
Ionian Ilios IKE is developing a new tourism accommodation project in Lefkada with support from the ESPA 2021–2027 Programme, through the Action “Support for the Establishment and Operation of New Small and Medium-sized Tourism Enterprises.”
The project supports the establishment and operation of Ionian Ilios as a new tourism operator and contributes towards the development of a small-scale, thoughtfully managed accommodation offering in Lefkada.
The project has been shaped by the Ionian Ilios concept: a considered approach to hospitality that brings together architecture, the surrounding landscape and the character of Lefkada.
The Project
Ionian Ilios is located on the eastern side of Lefkada, between Nikiana and Nydri.
The development consists of two independent accommodation residences, with a combined capacity of up to 14 guests. The buildings have been designed to follow the natural contours of the site, with much of their structure integrated into the existing terrain.
The intention is to create accommodation that feels closely connected to its setting rather than separate from it. The Ionian Ilios concept places importance on the relationship between the residences, the olive grove in which it lies, the surrounding landscape and the views over the Ionian Sea.
The Ionian Ilios Concept
The Ionian Ilios concept began with the idea of creating a place that is closely connected to Lefkada, its surroundings and the community.
The architectural design responds to the natural slope of the site and seeks to limit the visual presence of the buildings within the landscape. Existing olive trees and vegetation are being retained or relocated where appropriate, while the landscape around the buildings is being restored following construction.
The concept also considers the wider experience of staying in Lefkada. Guests will have the opportunity to discover beaches, villages, food, culture and the natural environment, as well as activities and experiences provided by local businesses and specialist providers.
Our approach to sustainability and responsible tourism is described separately on our Sustainability & Responsible Tourism page.
A Contribution to the Lefkada Tourism Offering
Lefkada has a long-established tourism identity, particularly around its beaches, coastline and marine environment. The Ionian Ilios concept also recognises the islands wider potential for nature, heritage, outdoor activities and other forms of tourism.
The accommodation has therefore been conceived as a small-scale base from which guests can experience different aspects of the island unlike a conventional tourist.
Where appropriate, Ionian Ilios works with local businesses and service providers to help guests discover places and experiences across Lefkada.
A New Tourism Enterprise
The ESPA support contributes to the establishment of Ionian Ilios as a new tourism enterprise.
The investment covers the development of the accommodation and the infrastructure, equipment and other elements required to bring the project into operation.
It also supports the foundations of the business through which guests will be able to discover and book their stay, including the website and digital booking systems.
The intention of this support is simply to establish Ionian Ilios as a functioning accommodation business in Lefkada, providing a place for visitors to stay while becoming part of the wider, more environmentally conscious, tourism environment.
Looking Ahead
Ionian Ilios is being developed with a long-term perspective.
The project is intended to become a small, independently operated accommodation business in Lefkada, with an emphasis on thoughtful design, a strong connection to its setting and a respectful approach to hospitality.
The support received through the ESPA 2021–2027 Programme is contributing to the establishment of this project and its transition from concept and construction into operation.
Project Information
Programme: ESPA 2021–2027
Action: Support for the Establishment and Operation of New Small and Medium-sized Tourism Enterprises
Article: Article 73 of Regulation (EU) 2021/1060 intervention type/code
Location of operation/beneficiary: Lefkada, Ionian Islands
Country: Greece
Beneficiary: Ionian Ilios IKE
Purpose: Establishment and operation of a new small and medium-sized tourism enterprise providing accommodation in Lefkada.
Achievements: Development and operation of two accommodation residences with a combined capacity of up to 14 guests, together with the facilities, infrastructure and equipment required for their operation.
Starting date of the operation: 01/01/2025
Expected completion date: 31/12/2026
ESPA Budget: €400,000
ESPA Contribution: €200,000