On the southern coast of the Ionian island of Lefkada lies a tucked-away slice of holiday magic: Club Vass, a windsurfing and Wing-foiling haven that blends high energy watersports with easygoing Greek charm and a very special vibe that needs to be experienced to be understood.
With its signature turquoise bay, a social scene that is super-chilled and happy in it’s own skin and a dedicated crew of instructors and staff, this isn’t just another beach break but something very addictive whatever your age or level – it’s an experience that’s good for the soul.
Catch the Wind (and the Vibe)
At the heart of Club Vass is Eric!! Not a person, but the name affectionately given to the afternoon thermal (cross shore) wind that rolls in with perfect timing (in my book). Mornings here are happily lazy and tranquil, ideal for a coffee or breakfast in Vassiliki watching the yachts come in (or a trip to the fab bakery on the way into the village which does amazing pastries). If you fancy something more energetic, you can dabble in some paddle boarding, diving or… spear fishing (if you have 3 boys like mine!!) a little pool time, or simply stretching out in the sun.
By lunchtime, though, the energy shifts as Eric picks up, transforming the bay into a playground for board sports fans of all levels. Before I get into that, I nearly forgot about the Club Vass Kids Club. It’s for those with younger children, starting at 10.30 13.00 and 14.30 – 18.00 each day where they do games, windsurfing, a visit to the local waterpark and more… My youngest loved this on previous visits but now being nine and trying to keep up with her brothers joined the Pro Kid Club where the focus is learning to really get going windsurf wise (still great fun for them).
The instruction on the water is exceptional, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills in either windsurfing or winging. The coaching team somehow strikes the rare balance of being both seriously skilled, cool and great fun. You’re learning, laughing, and often progressing without even realising it. (I tried winging this year for the first time and loved it but luckily Eric was blowing hard enough they couldn’t hear me on my first time out as I was swearing rather a lot (mainly at my laughing family) It was harder than I thought it would be to get going!
One of the key selling points for Club Vass is the simply staggering array of kit available to use. The centre hosts top of the line boards from brands such as Duotone, Goya and Severne and a vast array of rigs from the same high end brands, meaning that there is something for everyone to enjoy. On the winging front, the kit is all Duotone, but with plenty to go around. They use a simple card system that means when Eric arrives, you can be on the turquoise waters within five minutes – perfect!!
More Than Windsurfing
Beyond the board, Club Vass has something for everyone. Mornings can start with guided mountain biking through the hills, (my eldest and I did this together on one morning and loved it!) offering spectacular views and some hills for a bit of a cardio workout! William less impressed with the hills after a few beers the night before. Another morning I did Pilates with Valerie. This was an absolute highlight. Her Sessions are uplifting and my core had a good workout ready to be seriously tested on the wing. The very thought of looking like her kept me focused!
There’s also yoga with Benita, held on a dreamy open-air platform facing the sea. With cicadas humming in the background and the lovely turquoise sea as your view, it’s a grounding start to the day and one you’ll look forward to.
For those wanting to try something other than just windsurfing (like me!) wing foiling is huge here. The equipment is top-notch, and Max , the lead instructor, is endlessly patient, enthusiastic, and brilliant with kids and teens as well as adults. One of our boys was completely hooked a few years ago now and Max has been
brilliant with him.
The Club Vass Stay
Accommodation-wise, the Club Vass hotel is great for families, with a fantastic pool that keeps kids cool and entertained. It also has a fab restaurant that does breakfast, brunch and lunch. I would really recommend the coffee and smoothies served throughout the day. The Avocado and Eggs is a favourite as is the power bowl fruit salad with seeds, yoghurt and honey.
Next door, there are brand-new lovely sea-view (Cross Shore) apartments offering a more upscale stay with a bit of extra space and style which are ideal for couples or those wanting a little extra luxury. Or perfect for a family of six like us as there is a washing machine, great kitchen, lovely outdoor eating area and super comfy beds with lovely cotton sheets and all natural bedding. It has a really luxurious but earthy feel to it. We loved it.
Just a short stroll away is Vassiliki town, a postcard-perfect harbour village with plenty of traditional tavernas. The seafood is the star here, grilled octopus, just-caught fish, and local mezze served up with sunset views and warm Greek hospitality. Our favourites were Patio, Oceans and Alex’s Kitchen. Along with a cocktail in Bar 155 on the Main Street.
People Make the Place
Of course, what makes Club Vass truly unforgettable are the people and the sense of total relaxed fun. Ollie, the manager, sets the tone with his effortless calm, sharp sense of humour, and knack for being exactly where you need him but always helpful, always good company. Sarah, who runs the hotel side of things, is a warm and constant presence; our daughter Tilly adored her. It’s that blend of relaxed professionalism and genuine connection that makes you feel instantly at home and happy.
Then there is pizza night on a Tuesday evening. Joining is optional but it’s fun for parents as they drink sundowners in bikinis (it felt a bit like a lovely apres ski vibe of staying in your ski kit and after sport drinks but in your beach kit).
I also can’t forget the famous Club Vass BBQ on Friday night complete with a hilarious video taken of guests on the water and instructors doing tricks. Each week has a different theme (which can be found on the Club Vass website). Our week’s theme was The 70’s and the instructors all pulled off the vibe complete with music. Great fun and a fab atmosphere. We drank and chatted and Tilly cartwheeled with friends and the boys did whatever boys do whilst sneaking a few beers!
The Verdict
For me, Club Vass offered a fantastic antidote to those more formalised holidays where you can occasionally feel a bit shepherded into getting involved whether you like it or not! The fantastically chilled vibe and lack of ego means that guests can dip in and dip out and even though you can be picked up on a coach (or you can hire a car if you prefer but we never feel we need one) there is no pressure and you can simply enjoy the holiday the way you want to.
Whether you’re chasing wind, finding your flow on a yoga mat, or simply kicking back with grilled prawns and a chilled Mythos, Club Vass has something for everyone. It’s not just a destination… it’s a community, a rhythm, a feeling you’ll want to return to, again and again and something super special.
