Kefalonia is one of Greece’s most underrated islands. While it may not be as famous as Santorini or Mykonos, it has its share of gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. It’s the largest island in the Ionian Islands and is about an hour from Zante. Featuring a distinctive geography of mountainous terrain and pristine beaches, it offers stunning natural landscapes. If you plan to visit Kefalonia, here’s a guide to where to go and what to do on the island.
Assos Village
Located about 36 km north of Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital, the tiny village of Assos offers a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a relaxing getaway. It’s perched on a hill on the small peninsula of Erissos, a site of historical significance due to its strategic location. Aside from enjoying the views, there’s plenty to discover in Assos. One of its highlights is the Assos Castle, a Venetian fortification built around the 13th to 18th century. Assos also has its share of lovely beaches. There are two beaches along the coastline of Assos, and both have crystal-clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and lounging around as you take in the breathtaking views of Kefalonia. The picturesque scenery and the view of the surrounding lush forest in deep green colour is a true feast for the eyes. Both beaches in Assos offer scenic views of the bay, with its serene, calm waves. Moreover, the calm, clear waters make them ideal for snorkelling.
Melissani Cave
While many visit Kefalonia on a day trip from nearby islands, it’s worth spending a few days here. There are many luxury villas in Kefalonia, ideal for those planning to stay longer and explore its stunning natural sites, such as Melissani Cave, nestled 20 metres below ground and featuring a lake, offering a breathtaking experience. Melissani Cave’s ancient stalactites and the lake’s changing colours will transport you to another world. Measuring 160 metres in length and 40 metres in width, it has two large rooms forming a B-shape. Each has a crystal-clear lake with an island in the middle. The lake looks even more beautiful thanks to a ray of sunshine that filters through the roof of one of the caves that collapsed centuries ago.
The lake is about 20 to 30 metres deep, and when the sun is shining to the fullest, the rays hitting the lake’s turquoise-blue waters create a magical illusion, and the entire cave suddenly feels lit with blue light – a truly magical sight! You can take one of the small boats plying on the lake inside the cave. Many companies offer cave tours that include pickup from your Kefalonia hotel.
Mount Ainos
Many visitors to Kefalonia come to explore Mt. Ainos, the only national park on a Greek island. It covers 3,000 hectares. Megas Soros is its highest peak, at 1,628 metres. What’s unique about this national park is that ⅔ of the park’s entire area is covered by a single species of fir known as the Abies Cephalonica, growing at an altitude of 600-1,600 metres.
Fioravante Apartments: Your Gateway to Authentic Kefalonia
Hiking Mt. Ainos is highly recommended if you’re visiting Kefalonia. The hiking paths are moderately easy. You can take the trail that circles the entire park at 6,184 metres in length. Enjoy the breathtaking views of nature during your hike, starting and ending at the Environmental Centre of Ainos. Depending on your fitness level and hiking ability, the scenic walk should take about 1.5 hours, but it may take longer if you stop at the recreation areas along the way. To conquer Mt. Ainos’ highest peak, you can take the trail from Digaleto – Megas Soros, about 6,595 metres in length, starting north of the Digaleto community and ending at the summit of Megas Soros. The hike is moderately difficult and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. However, it will reward you with fantastic views towards the Peloponnese and the Ionian Sea.
Myrtos Beach
Kefalonia is famous for its gorgeous beaches, making it one of the most popular destinations for a beach holiday in Greece. There are some lovely sea-view villas in Kefalonia, great for those who want to stay close to the beach. One of the island’s most popular beaches, Myrtos Beach, has become a symbol of Kefalonia. Surrounded by tall, rugged cliffs that make it even more striking, Myrtos Beach has gained a worldwide reputation and is recognised by travel magazines as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s 29 km north of Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital city. The best way to reach the beach is by driving through the main road in a rented car. Myrtos Beach is semi-circular, and the water colour changes dramatically from dark blue to turquoise throughout the day. As one of the most popular beaches in Greece, Myrtos Beach can get crowded during the peak summer season. However, it’s well-organised, complete with sundecks and umbrellas.
Agios Gerasimos Monastery
Like most Greek islands, Kefalonia has its share of historical and religious sites. The most popular is the Agios Gerasimos Monastery, a 16th-century church complex with a courtyard and beautiful gardens. It also contains the tomb of St. Gerasimos, the patron saint of Kefalonia. The body of Saint Gerasimos is on display in a glass case at the Monastery. After his death, his body was buried, but unearthed intact, which prompted the church to declare him a saint. Kefalonians continue to worship and pray to him even today. The Agios Gerasimos Monastery is about 15km from Argostoli, perched on the Omalon plateau, near the villages of Valsamata and Fragata. The best way to reach it is by car. During the peak season, buses arrive daily from Argostoli.
Fall in Love with Greece – The Most Romantic Destinations in Greece