Kefalonia is the largest island of the Ionian Sea and a very charming place. Although it has developed over the last years as a family destination, beach places in Kefalonia Island never get crowded due to its large size. Mostly famous for its exotic beaches, including Myrtos, Antisamos, Lourdas and Skala, the island was chosen in 2001 for filming the Hollywood movie “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin”. Apart from swimming, do not miss the chance to visit the island’s picturesque villages, the medieval castles and the beautiful monasteries.

The cuisine of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia included, is heavily influenced by its conquerors. Local ingredients cooked with passion and according to tradition lead to superb gastronomic experiences, bursting with distinctive aromas and unique flavors. Dining in Kefalonia can be a real pleasure! The traditional restaurants offer the best of local gastronomy with authentic dishes like aliada, bouryetto, tsigaria and bourbourelia.

Fiscardo is the most cosmopolitan place with a port that receives many yachts every summer. Other nice villages to visit during your stay are Argostoli, Sami and Assos.

Tip: The Ionian Islands are ideal for sailing vacations as the area offers friendly winds and seas all summer long!

GETTING HERE

By airplane: There are daily flights between Athens and the Airport of Cephalonia throughout the year as well as numerous charter flights that connect the island with major European capitals. The Cephalonia airport can be easily accessed by private can and it is located in the area of Argostoli.

By ferry: From Athens you have to drive to Patras or Kyllini and then take the ferry to Cephalonia. The trip takes around 4-6hrs.

MUST-VISIT

1. Melissani Cave:The Cave Lake of Melissani is located just 3 km from Sami, close to Karavomilos village. Visitors enter the cave through an underground path and they can step into a boat to tour the cave. Archaeological excavations have found exhibits from the 4th and the 3rd century BC.
2. Castle of St George:The Castle of Saint George stands on a hill above Peratata village, about 7 km from Argostoli. It was originally built by the Byzantines but the Venetians gave it its final form in 1504. The Castle is almost ruined today by invasions and the severe earthquake that hit Cephalonia in 1953.
3. Myrtos Beach:Myrtos is the most famous and beautiful beach of Cephalonia. It is actually a large coast with turquoise waters and white sand, surrounded by steep cliffs. Located at 30km north of Argostoli.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE

Scuba diving is particularly popular in Cephalonia, due to the rocky coastline and the safe waters. Important diving sites are the Temple Cave in Fiscardo with two entrances, the Catacombs with max depth 21 m, the Blue Canyon in Lassi, and the shipwreck of the Italian WWII ship Ardena which is suitable only for advanced divers. Courses for all ages are offered upon request.