Welcome to Kefalonia Island, Greece, a true paradise for those seeking a relaxing escape from their mundane lives. With its turquoise waters, picturesque beaches, and unspoiled natural beauty, this stunning island offers an adventure like no other.
Nestled in the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia offers an abundance of things to do and see. From exploring ancient ruins to kayaking through hidden coves or simply relaxing on dreamy shorelines.
Don’t worry about where to stay. There’s something here for everyone; luxurious villas overlooking the sea, cozy beachfront cottages or traditional apartments nestled in charming fishing villages. Although the arthquake of 1953 destroyed most of Kefalonias Venetian charm, the survivors rebuilt everything from scratch. So get ready to indulge in lavish experiences on one of the most exceptional islands in the Greek island group!
Getting around the island
A golden evening sun washes over Kefalonia as my rented Toyota rolls past its tattered cliffs and onto Agia Efimia. Renting a car is a must, knowing that the island is pretty much built around a mountain.
My navigation seems just as lost as I am, so I knock on the supposably nearby butcher’s door. ‘I’ll drive you to the hotel,’ the gentleman offers, while removing his head from the pig’s carcass. Quite a first impression, I think to myself, following his car.
The secluded Péra Perou Villas look scrumptious, even in the dark. It’s where I chose to stay for the next 5 days. By unpacking my suitcase, I make room for my Greek adventure on the unknown island.
Too tired for dinner, I snack on the sesame crackers bought on my way from the airport. Then, finally, the comforting silence of the raindrops brushing against the poolside terrace rocks me to sleep.
Where to stay in Kefalonia
Wabi-Sabi Culture & Panoramic Views
There are plenty of hotels and rental properties available on Kefalonia Island. Many visitors stay in the capital city of Argostoli, where there are a variety of accommodations to choose from. Other popular places to stay include Lassi, Skala, and Poros.
Argostoli, the largest city on the island offers a range of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments. The Korgialenio Historic and Folklore Museum, the Drapano Bridge, and the Katavothres natural phenomenon are just around the corner.
Lassi is a popular resort town located just south of Argostoli. The town is known for its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. There are several hotels and apartments to choose from in Lassi, as well as a number of restaurants and bars.
Skala is another popular resort town located on the east coast of the island. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Ionian Sea from Skala’s beachfront hotels and apartments. The town is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Poros is a small village located on the north coast of the island. Poros is a popular spot for windsurfing and sailing thanks to its strong winds and sheltered bay. The village also has a number of small hotels and guesthouses.
Where I stayed
I decide to stay in Argostoli, the most historic part of the island, in the Péra Perou villas as mentioned above. Side note, my fascination for wabi-sabi aesthetics significantly deepened over the past couple of years. Originally planted by the Japanese, the ancient concept recognizes beauty in imperfection. Hence why I knew the villas would be right up my alley.
They are furnished with natural elements – wooden tables, white linen couches, and greek figurines. The walk-in shower overlooks the majestic mountain top. Unspoiled minimalism and quietude exist in equal measure.
Wrapped in an olive tree garden, the undisturbed paradise oomphs luxury. The good news is Kefalonia remains green all year round due to abundant rainfall caused by the Ionian climate. An entirely different experience compared to the other summery Greek Islands I visited over the years.
Most beautiful Beaches in Greece
MYRTOS BEACH IS ONE FOR IN THE BOOKS
Kefalonia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From the secluded beaches of Myrtos and Antisamos, to the bustling beaches of Lassi and Makrys Gialos. There is something for everyone on this ionian island.
Myrtos Beach: Often hailed as the most beautiful beach in Greece, Myrtos is a must-visit when staying on Kefalonia. The turquoise waters are simply breathtaking. There are plenty of beach bars and restaurants to enjoy a refreshing drink or bite to eat.
Although I still prefer sand under my feet, I absolutely admire the pearly white pebbles on this beach. The rays of sunshine hit all the right angles of the surrounding cliffside. It’s undoubtedly a place of solitude and calm. Make sure you pack enough layers, it can get windy up there.
Petani Beach: A wonderful mix of pebbles and sand decorated equipped with umbrellas and sundecks. There is also taverns, a shower and toilet facilities not too far from the beach.
Antisamos Beach: If you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax, Antisamos beach is the perfect place. This idyllic beach is surrounded by lush greenery, and the calm waters make it ideal for swimming. There’s also a great little taverna serving traditional Greek food.
Lassi Beach: One of the busiest beaches on Kefalonia. It is still worth a visit for its stunning setting and excellent facilities. There are several restaurants and bars, as well as sun loungers and parasols for hire. The water here is crystal clear and perfect for swimming.
Makrys Gialos Beach: Another popular spot with tourists, Makrys Gialos has a lovely sandy beach flanked by restaurants, bars and shops.
Mount Ainos National Park
WHERE NATURE MEETS SERENITY
If you love hiking, then you’ll definitely want to check out Mount Ainos National Park. This park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery on the island, and there are plenty of trails to explore. You can also find a number of quaint villages within the park, so it’s the perfect place to spend a day or two if you’re looking to get off the beaten path. Fir-tree lovers like myself will find refuge in the 3,000 hectares stretching Mount Ainos National Park.
Kefalonia is the only Greek Island to have a National Park. Its circular hiking path of 6,184m will treat you to the most exquisite island views.
What to eat
Kefalonia is home to some of the best food in Greece. The island’s cuisine is a splendid mix of Greek and Italian, with fresh seafood being a specialty. There are plenty of great places to eat, but here are a couple of options:
– Taverna Fiskardo: This traditional seafood taverna is located in the picturesque village of Fiskardo. The seafood here is some of the freshest and tastiest you’ll find on the island.
– Premier Restaurant: This organic eatery is located in the capital, Argostoli. The menu features modern Greek cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Bonus: there are vegan options to choose from.
– Paralos: This family-run restaurant is located in the village of Lassi. The food here is simple but delicious, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
Why you should visit Kefalonia, Greece
Pasted-hued Coastal Coziness
If you’re looking for a breathtaking island destination in Greece, look no further than Kefalonia. The scenery is unlike anywhere else. Kefalonia is home to towering mountains, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sea.
Whether you’re hiking through the forests or driving along the coast, you’ll be constantly blown away by the natural beauty of the island. The beaches are some of the best in Greece. From secluded coves to sandy beaches lined with restaurants and bars, there’s a beach for everyone in Kefalonia.
You’ll fall in love with the friendly locals. Kefalonians are known for their hospitality and you’ll quickly feel like part of the family when you’re on the island. The tiny village, Agia Effimia in particular, is one of those places where everyone knows your name. Many locals speak English so you won’t have any trouble communicating with them.
There’s plenty to do on the island. It’s cozy and laid-back, perfectly suitable for couples or friends who like to relax and indulge in a beautiful dinner at the pier. In addition to lounging on the beach, you can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, sailing, or scuba diving. Hence why I consider Kefalonia Island one of many layers worth discovering.
