Kefalonia, the Island of Continuous Discovery
Kefalonia -the largest of the Ionian islands– is one of continuous discovery. The more you explore, the more it reveals its hidden treasures. So, rent a car with Simplybook and set off to enjoy the incredible beaches with clear turquoise waters and charmingly alluring coves. Explore the lush slopes of Mount Ainos with forests of black fir and the small picturesque villages. In addition to the island's natural beauty, the people are amicable, warm and uniquely "crazy"! However, it's a harmless and beautiful kind of "crazy". In reality, the Kefalenes are particularly satirical, but their sassy sense of humour can quickly grow on you and make you love the island even more.
Rebuilding the island
An essential chapter of the island's recent history is linked to devastating earthquakes. Kefalonia -as Zakynthos and the other Ionian islands- stands east of the tectonic fault line where the European and Aegean plates meet. In 1953 an earthquake destroyed most of the island's villages. However, the locals put a lot of effort into rebuilding them, keeping the original Venetian architectural style alive.
Kefalonia has countless beaches with blue-green waters. Image by pilarspin @pixabay.
How to get there
The island's two main ports are Sami (connecting Kefalonia to Patra and the nearby island of Ithaca) and Poros on the southeast coast, with a connection to the port of Killini in Peloponnese. The second way is faster and preferred by most visitors. The international airport is on the south coast of the island, 8 km from Argostoli or 52 km from Lixouri.
The best way to discover Kefalonia is by car. It is a big island with long distances, and public transport will only get you to the most tourist areas. Besides, driving in Kefalonia is an excellent way to explore and admire its beauty and unforgettable views!
In this article, we have included suggestions for places you should take advantage of in Kefalonia!
Argostoli, at the southeastern side of the Kefalonia, 8 km from the airport
At the southeastern part of the island is Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia. Unfortunately, the 1953's earthquake destroyed many of the city's Venetian buildings. However, you can still enjoy a nice walk on the Lithostroto, a paved promenade, and Valianou Square, which gets busy in the evening. The Botanical Garden is worth visiting if you are interested in the local flora. You can admire various Ionian native plants in a natural setting with a stream running through the centre.
The view of Argostoli from Telegraphos Hill. Image by Anastasia Mountaki, licenced
Lixouri, the second largest city of Kefalonia, 30 km northwest of Argostoli
30 km northwest of Argostoli -on the other side of the bay- is Lixouri, the island's second-largest town. Lixouri was rebuilt after the earthquake according to traditional architecture, with streets full of trees and big squares. Small bridges connect the town's two banks on the two sides of a large stream. It is a beautiful place to stay, with easy access to the rest of the Paliki peninsula, an area worth exploring. While in Lixouri, you will probably notice the bronze statue of the satirical poet Laskaratos, purposely placed with its back towards Argostoli. The statue's position shows the old grudge between the two cities, dating back to 1757 when the Venetians moved the capital from Lixouri to Argostoli!
Assos, built on a small peninsula among cypresses and pine trees, 36 km north of Argostoli. Photo by Shogun, licensed.
Assos, 36 km north of Argostoli
36 km north of Argostoli, built on a small peninsula among cypresses and pine trees, is Assos. This picturesque village offers magnificent views from the ruins of the 16th-century Venetian castle. Spend some time on the small, pebbled beach and enjoy swimming in the great waters of the Ionian Sea. Assos is an ideal place for relaxing vacations. There are various choices for accommodation and plenty of restaurants and cafes to try the local dishes while you enjoy the beautiful setting.
Myrtos beach, 30 km north of Argostoli
Surrounded by verdant cliffs and white rocks, Myrtos is a beach of indisputable beauty. The shiny white cobblestones and the turquoise waters will make you want to return. Moreover, the beach's facilities can provide you with everything you need to spend the whole day there. Still, be careful when it's windy, as the waves can get huge!
The pebble beach and deep turquoise waters of Myrtos. Photo by Tony Hisgett, licensed.
Fiskardo, 50 km northeast of Argostoli
50 km northeast of Argostoli is Fiskardo, a picturesque village of Venetian architecture built around a small harbour. Dense forests that reach a coastline full of small coves and crystal waters surround Fiskardo. The town survived the earthquake and kept its original character with pastel-coloured houses in most parts. The seafront has adjusted to the needs of the visitors that come to Fiskardo by yacht. To enjoy the waters, visit the nearby Emblisi beach with white pebbles. Although its natural beauty attracts many visitors, the beach has many tourist facilities.
The picturesque village and small harbour of Fiskardo. Image by PaulEdney from Pixabay, licensed.
Sami, 26 km northeast of Argostoli
The beautiful port town of Sami is primarily famous as the setting for "Captain Corelli's Mandolin" movie. Built after the earthquake of 1953, instead of having traditional air to it, Sami has a more modern style. However, each owner has given the otherwise similar buildings something of their character. Like most port villages, the waterfront is closed to cars during the evening, allowing pedestrians to enjoy their promenade and dinner by the sea. Luscious green cliffs and small coves and beaches surround this lovely town! Once in Sami, drive 3 km east to the white stone beach of Antisamos for a swim in the clear waters.
Kourkoumelata, 9 km south of Argostoli
If you ask the locals for suggestions on villages you should visit, they will mention Kourkoumelata. Although the 1953 earthquake destroyed the village, they rebuilt it in an impressive neoclassical architectural style with well-designed public buildings and open spaces. Park your car and walk towards the village's central square, where locals meet.
The cave and lake of Melissani, 10 km northwest of Argostoli, Photo by zolakoma, licensed
Cave of Melissani, 10 km northwest of Argostoli
Only leave Kefalonia after visiting the cave of Melissani! 10 km northwest of Argostoli, the cave hides an underground lake where you can take a boat tour. We recommend you visit the cave around noon when the sun is above it. The light's effects on the rock holes are magnificent, complementing beautifully the bluest of waters you could ever imagine!
Need more information about the beautiful island of Kefalonia? Check Nick's and Dariece's 5-day travel guide.
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