The prefecture of Etoloakarnania is a land of contrasts where high densely wooded mountains rise up beyond the coast, and tiny fishing villages and old fortified ports huddle along the sea line. The forests, which are among some of the largest in Greece, contain rare species and are punctuated by unique mountain villages.

The principal town of the prefecture is Messolongi. it was founded in the 16th century and has a long and turbulent history. Along the coast the charming seaside town of Nafpaktos faces out to sea and above the town and atmospheric old port sits an old Venetian castle.

Off the coast of the prefecture is the island of Etoliko which nowadays is connected to the mainland by a multi-arched stone bridge.

The coast offers many oportunities for swimming and beaches can be found in the villages of Agios Giorgis, Asprogiali and Vela, amongst others.