Kefalonia (also spelled Cephalonia or Kefallinia) is the largest of the Ionian Islands, located off the western coast of mainland Greece. Known for its striking natural beauty, Kefalonia is famous for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and picturesque villages. It offers a harmonious blend of unspoiled nature, charming towns, beautiful beaches, and cultural heritage, making it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Here’s an in-depth overview of Kefalonia:
1. Location and Geography
- Location: Kefalonia lies in the Ionian Sea, west of mainland Greece and south of Lefkada. It is the largest of the Ionian Islands, covering around 780 square kilometers. The island is surrounded by smaller islets, including Ithaca to the northeast and Zakynthos to the south.
- Geography: Kefalonia’s landscape is diverse, with mountains, forests, olive groves, vineyards, and rugged coastline. The island’s highest point is Mount Ainos, which rises to 1,628 meters and is part of a national park. The southern part of the island is flatter, while the northern and western regions are more mountainous and rugged.
2. Beaches
Kefalonia is renowned for its stunning beaches, many of which are regularly ranked among the best in Greece and Europe. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, white pebbles, and dramatic backdrops, the beaches of Kefalonia are a major draw.
a. Myrtos Beach
- Perhaps the most famous beach on the island, Myrtos is known for its striking white pebbles, steep cliffs, and brilliant blue waters. Located in the northwestern part of the island, the beach is framed by towering cliffs that create a stunning, photogenic contrast with the sea. It’s regularly ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
b. Antisamos Beach
- Located near the town of Sami, Antisamos Beach is another iconic spot, especially popular for its crystal-clear waters and lush green hills that surround the beach. It was featured in the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin and is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
c. Petani Beach
- Often compared to Myrtos due to its similarly stunning cliffs and azure waters, Petani Beach is located on the western coast of the Paliki Peninsula. Its long, wide stretch of white sand and pebbles, along with calm, clear water, make it a great spot for swimming and relaxation.
d. Skala Beach
- Skala Beach, on the southeastern coast, is one of the island’s longest beaches, offering a mix of sand and pebbles with crystal-clear waters. Skala is more developed, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and watersport facilities. The nearby village of Skala offers many restaurants, cafés, and accommodations.
e. Lourdas Beach
- Located in the south of the island, Lourdas Beach is a long, sandy beach with shallow waters, making it ideal for families. The backdrop of Mount Ainos provides a beautiful setting for beachgoers.
3. Towns and Villages
Kefalonia is home to several charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character and history.
a. Argostoli – The Capital
- Argostoli is the capital of Kefalonia and the largest town on the island. It’s a bustling yet charming town with a beautiful harbor, waterfront promenade, and a lively central square (Plateia Vallianou). Argostoli was rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1953, which destroyed much of the island, but it retains a modern, vibrant atmosphere.
- Attractions: Highlights of Argostoli include the Korgialenio History and Folklore Museum, the Botanical Gardens, and the Drapano Bridge, which spans the lagoon of Koutavos. The town is also a great place to sample local cuisine and enjoy a lively evening out.
b. Fiskardo
- Fiskardo is a picturesque fishing village located on the northern tip of the island. It’s one of the few places on the island that was spared from the 1953 earthquake, so its traditional Venetian architecture remains intact. Fiskardo is known for its colorful waterfront houses, upscale restaurants, and luxurious yachts that dock in the harbor.
- The village has a charming, cosmopolitan feel, making it a favorite for visitors looking for a more refined atmosphere.
c. Assos
- Assos is a tiny, postcard-perfect village located on a small peninsula on the northwestern coast. It is surrounded by the sea on three sides and overlooked by the ruins of the Assos Castle, a Venetian fortress. The village has narrow streets lined with bougainvillea-covered houses and a small beach with calm, clear waters. Assos is ideal for those seeking a tranquil, romantic escape.
d. Sami
- Sami, located on the east coast, is an important port town with ferry connections to Ithaca and the mainland. It’s surrounded by lush hills and is known for its proximity to the Melissani Cave and Drogarati Cave, two of the island’s most famous natural attractions. The harbor is lined with tavernas, cafés, and shops, and the town has a laid-back, local vibe.
e. Lixouri
- Lixouri, the second-largest town on the island, is located on the Paliki Peninsula. It’s a quieter alternative to Argostoli but still offers a lively central square, beautiful neoclassical buildings, and several nearby beaches, including Petani and Xi Beach.
4. Natural Attractions
Kefalonia is blessed with a wealth of natural wonders, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
a. Melissani Cave
- The Melissani Cave is one of Kefalonia’s most famous attractions. This stunning underground lake, also known as the Cave of the Nymphs, features crystal-clear waters illuminated by sunlight streaming through a hole in the cave’s roof. Visitors can take boat tours inside the cave to experience the magical blue light reflecting off the water.
b. Drogarati Cave
- Located near Sami, Drogarati Cave is a massive underground cave featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave has excellent acoustics, and concerts are occasionally held in its main chamber.
c. Mount Ainos National Park
- Mount Ainos, the highest peak in the Ionian Islands, is home to a protected national park known for its unique Kefalonian fir trees. The park offers several hiking trails with spectacular views of the island and the surrounding seas. On clear days, you can see as far as Zakynthos and Ithaca from the summit.
d. Koutavos Lagoon
- The Koutavos Lagoon in Argostoli is a protected wetland area known for its wildlife, particularly the endangered Caretta caretta (loggerhead sea turtles). Visitors can walk or cycle around the lagoon or take a boat tour to spot turtles in their natural habitat.
5. Culture and History
- Ancient History: Kefalonia has a rich history dating back to antiquity. The island was part of the ancient kingdom of Kefalonia, a powerful ally of Athens in the Peloponnesian War. Archaeological sites such as the ruins of ancient Sami and Pale give insight into the island’s past.
- Venetian and British Influence: Like other Ionian Islands, Kefalonia was under Venetian rule for several centuries, leaving behind beautiful Venetian architecture, particularly in towns like Fiskardo. Later, the island was part of the British Protectorate of the Ionian Islands before joining Greece in 1864.
- The 1953 Earthquake: A major event in the island’s history, the earthquake of 1953 devastated much of Kefalonia, destroying most buildings and leaving the island in ruins. However, this also led to the island’s modern reconstruction, and today it blends contemporary architecture with its traditional Ionian charm.
6. Cuisine
Kefalonian cuisine is a reflection of the island’s fertile land and rich history, featuring a variety of fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes.
- Kefalonian Meat Pie: One of the island’s signature dishes, Kreatopita is a savory meat pie filled with beef, lamb, or pork, rice, vegetables, and a blend of spices, all encased in a flaky pastry.
- Robola Wine: The island is famous for its Robola wine, a crisp, dry white wine made from the indigenous Robola grape variety. The Robola Wine Cooperative near Omala offers tours and tastings.
- Bourbourelia: A traditional bean soup made with wild greens and pulses, particularly popular in the winter months.
- Fresh Seafood: Given its proximity to the sea, Kefalonia offers a wealth of fresh seafood, including octopus, squid, and lobster, often grilled or served in stews.
7. Activities and Adventure
Kefalonia offers a wide range of outdoor activities for those seeking adventure:
- Hiking: The island’s mountainous terrain provides excellent hiking opportunities, particularly in Mount Ainos National Park. Trails offer breathtaking views and a chance to explore the island’s flora and fauna.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Kefalonia’s clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving, with several dive centers offering excursions to explore underwater caves, reefs, and shipwrecks.
- Sailing and Boating: Many visitors rent boats or take sailing tours around Kefalonia’s coast to explore hidden coves and nearby islands like Ithaca.