Covered in pines, holly trees and cypresses, this multifaceted island balances between the irresistible Greek beauty and the charming European finesse. Kefalonia has one of the longest coastlines in Greece and over 100 beaches, about 70 of which serviced.
It has Myrtos, this amazing spot on the map where the thick lush vegetation of the Ionian islands becomes one with the crystal blue waters of the Ionian Sea; a trademark beach of the island and reason enough to visit Kefalonia. Relatively close to the beach, two of the most well-known, picturesque villages of Kefalonia, Fiskardo and Assos that have managed to maintain their authenticity, remaining truly unique.
Travel.gr spoke with the head of the tourist department of the Municipality of Kefalonia, Mr Stavros Korkos Kouris who told us about the uniqueness of that part of the island, mentioning that “when travellers visit the north part of the island they will see a wilder side of its natural beauty” while on the island’s south part, there’s a variety of organised, luxury resorts, as well as many sandy beaches with great facilities that are very popular.
“About 70% of the tourists that come to Kefalonia each year, come from Great Britain, and the remaining 30% is from various European countries like Germany, Holland, France and Belgium. Of course, Greeks also visit, mostly in July and August. In addition, locals who have moved away from the island return to their villages for the summer,” Mr Kouris tells us. This year, the predictions for the summer season are particularly optimistic. It seems that capacity will exceed that of 2019, that is the year before the pandemic. “Looking at data from the airport we see that flights from abroad are full. At the moment, the flights are between 70%-80% full, which means that if this continues we are going to have a truly great summer,” he adds.
So, if you’re planning to visit Kefalonia this year, then you better hurry and book a room. The fact that the island is easily accessible from the Peloponnese, and in particular from Kyllini, and also from the port of Astakos in the Aetolia-Acarnania region makes it a more favourable destination for the Greek travellers. We recommend staying in the capital, the beautiful Argostoli, from where you’ll be able to easily go to many of the island’s beaches, and the most famous sight of Kefalonia, the impressive cave of Melissani. “If you want to see as many things as possible, then it’s best if you stay somewhere central,” Mr Stavros Korkos Kouris advises.
What to do:
The tour of the islands starts from Argostoli and Lixouri
The charming Argostoli, the island’s capital, is where the heart of Kefalonia’s nightlife undoubtedly beats. It’s a place full of traditional corners, as well as modern facilities that will make your stay easier and more pleasant.
At the town’s port, you’ll see large, luxury yachts and cruise ships arriving from every corner of the planet, while early in the morning, if you’re lucky, you might be able to see a few super cute caretta caretta turtles walking near the water. The truth is that the days and the nights in Kefalonia start and end in Argostoli; here you’ll have your morning coffee at the central square, you’ll buy souvenirs from the Lithostroto pedestrian street, and you’ll admire the imposing church of Agios Spiridonas, the locals’ pride and joy. In the evenings, couples head towards the Agii Theodori lighthouse, where it is said that you can enjoy one of the best sunsets ever.
Lixouri, the second largest village in Kefalonia, is very picturesque and is located right across from Argostoli. The first town to ever exist here was called Pali, a name that comes from the ancient king
Peleus. It was such a strong commercial town in its time that it even had its own currency. Lixouri’s presence remained strong in the following centuries, playing an important part in the unification of Kefalonia to Greece. Unfortunately, in 1953, the village was almost completely destroyed by the terrible earthquake that hit the Ionian islands, though some of the 19th century buildings have remained intact, including the Tipaldos – Iakovatos mansion that is one of the most recognisable sights of the island.
Walk around its narrow streets, visit the church of Pantokratoras, walk at the beautiful port and enjoy amazing food with ouzo overlooking the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.
The cave of Melissani
In 1951, two explorers, Ioannis Petrohilos and his wife Anna, arrived in Kefalonia in order to discover a cave that was said to be “buried” in the west of Sami. During their search, they managed to find a small opening in the land, surrounded by tall trees. Using ropes, they descended through the small hole and came across a magical lake underneath them, lost for thousands of years. Further research revealed that the cave is linked to the myth of the nymph Melissani, who killed herself by falling in a lake, when the object of her desire, the god Panna, rejected her.
The discovery of the Petrohilos couple is considered historically and archaeologically significant, however, it was the 1953 earthquake that revealed the cave in all its glory, opening a much larger hole in its roof. Now, thousands of visitors arrive here each year to see this heavenly sight, that is the probably the most photographed spot of Kefalonia. Try to visit it between 12.00 and 14.00, because a bright sunray falls on the waters through the opening of the roof, creating an incredible sight. Access to the cave is only by boat.
Visit the villages Assos and Fiskardo
Argostoli may be the capital, and Fiskardo may be one of the most famous villages of the Ionian islands, but the true magic of the Kefalonian tradition is found in two small villages that seem to be out of a painting. Two villages, in the north part of Kefalonia, amphitheatrically built above crystal waters, with small boats tied at their piers, colourful traditional houses, narrow streets, and countless of options for food, coffee and/or drinks by the water.
The village Assos is a true jewel of Kefalonia, known for its Venetian castle, whose remains still stand today. Go up the hill to enjoy the sunset and swim at the beach before having a meal at one of the many seaside taverns.
However, many visitors choose to visit the equally cute Fiskardo that is covered in pines and boasts many great examples of Ionian architecture. Here you can swim at two small and quiet beaches Emplisi and Foki, ideal for those who want everything within reach and don’t want to cover great distance.
Skala beach for water sports
One of the most comfortable, serviced and busy beaches of the island, Skala with its turquoise waters is 35 km from Argostoli and is known for its endless golden sandy beach and of course for its lovely pine forest that reaches the seafront.
Especially in July and August, the beach is very crowded, so it’s best to get to the beach early in the morning. Skala is a water sport aficionado paradise since it’s the best place in Kefalonia to enjoy water sports. There are small training centres on the beach, as well as rental shops to get gear, so that both young and old alike can enjoy diving (with the guidance and help of skilled trainers), riding a jet ski, or being pulled on a donut behind a speedboat.
Enjoy riding a pedal boat with your friends, go on an inflated banana, or rent a small boat or sailboat to explore more beaches around the island that are not accessible by land.
Visit the nearby Ionian islands in a boat
Kefalonia is an ideal base for those who wish to travel to many Ionian islands. North of Kefalonia you’ll find Lefkada, while in the south, you’ll find Zakynthos, as well as the dreamy Ithaca, right across the beach of Agia Efimia. You can rent a boat at a reasonable price from Fiskardo, and you can explore the secrets of the Ionian islands with the help of a guide. And who knows, if you’re lucky, you might see dolphins swimming next to your boat or cute caretta caretta turtles.
Some rental companies offer an organised daytrip for the most enjoyable island hopping ever. One of them includes a short visit to the most famous beach of Zakynthos, Navagio, with the shipwreck that is very popular both with Greek and foreign tourists.
In addition, from Agia Kiriaki you can take a boat to the beach Fteri, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece that’s only accessible by boat. As Mr Kouris told us, “when you get there, you’ll feel as if you’re somewhere else, very far away, perhaps in the Caribbean.” Also, from Poros, at the side of Ithaca, there are boats to another wonderful beach, Koutsoupia, a hidden gem of the Ionian, next to cypresses, kermes oaks, and Judas-trees. This beach too is only accessible by boat, since the forest reaches right up to the white pebbles.
Explore the Ainos National Park
Kefalonia, like all the Ionian islands, is covered in green and has a very interesting mountainous part that’s worth exploring.
Hiking aficionados will find many well marked trails in the Ainos National Park, while it’s also ideal for cycling. The view from above is unforgettable, while in the spring and the summer, the mountain is in full bloom filling the fresh air with beautiful scents. Look out for the proud wild horses roaming around at the foothills of mount Ainos, adding to the thrill of the park.
Swimming in magical Myrtos
It’s not just one of the most magical beaches in the country, Myrtos has also become a symbol. This beach, with the amazing turquoise waters and the lush vegetation surrounding it, has featured on the cover of some of the most famous travel magazines and has been voted one of the best beaches in the world multiple times.
Your eyes will get lost in the endless blue of the sea, stretching in front of the white sand, fading in the horizon. And it’s true, swimming in Myrtos will make you feel like you’re travelling in the open seas, swimming alone in the Ionian Sea.
With the passage of years, the calm of the most famous beach of Kefalonia has disappeared. Despite the fact that there are no umbrellas on large part of the beach, it’s almost impossible that you’ll get to Myrtos and not find large crowds on the beach, usually causing a small chaos. However, the moment you dip in the sea, you’ll be overcome by this feeling of peace and isolation that only such a magical place can offer. Swim away from the coast and turn to look at the beach to see the verdant mountain towering over Myrtos. It’s a majestic sight that will fill your heart with awe.
Unique local flavours
Homemade pies filled with all sorts of ingredients, amazing local cheeses (the local feta is exceptional), nicely boiled wild greens, delicious desserts (you can’t leave the island without trying the legendary mantoles) and a wide variety of good wine from the local vines, including the white Robola variety that has become associated with Kefalonia. These are just a few of the exceptional local dishes and products that you’ll try at some of the best restaurants on the island.
Where to eat:
Ampelaki
The restaurant Ampelaki offers both meat and fish dishes, in the capital of Kefalonia. Their rooster in red wine sauce is amazing, as is the sweet patsavouropita. At Ampelaki, you’ll also find great fresh fish arriving daily from the islands fish boats, while the other ingredients used are also locally sourced.
Casa Grec
Chic and luxurious with a menu focused on international cuisine, Casa Grec in Argostoli serves food in a lovely garden with a French bistro vibe. You can have a variety of dishes ranging from juicy burgers to grilled octopus, and lovely salmon. Their salads are also great, and the saganaki is well made and light.
Mikelatos
In one of the most cosmopolitan parts of Kefalonia, on the main street of the village Skala, the well-kept, elegant Mikelatos restaurant will make you feel as if you’re in a fish village in Italy. They have lovely décor, even lovelier dinnerware, and fine seafood.
I Palia Plaka
Inside a verdant, romantic garden you’ll find the largest variety of homemade casserole dishes in the whole Kefalonia. At the restaurant I Palia Plaka, you can try some of the best recipes of Kefalonia, like ‘lagoto’ rabbit, ‘sofigado’ goat, and kagianas (traditional scrambled eggs with feta and tomato sauce), as well as the famous meat pie with meat sourced from the island’s farms.
The Pines
You’ll find a very good tavern named after the small pine forest next to beach in popular Skala. ‘The Pines’ serves international and Greek cuisine, attempting interesting combinations that make a difference. They offer three different menus, one for vegetarians, while their desserts are also wonderful.
Try the lamb with plums, apricots and raisins, and also the great village sausage with cheese. End your meal with a pavlova ideal for those who love light flavours, while for chocolate lovers, they also make a great brownie.
Vasso’s
In the scenic bay of Fiskardo, the lovely fish tavern ‘Vasso’s’ serves large, filling servings of great local dishes. The main attraction is the fish and seafood, and you must try the pasta dishes, either with the shrimp or the lobster. Of course, here too they serve the famed meat pie of Kefalonia.
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