Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands, is a hidden gem that captivates every traveler with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From its pristine, crystal-clear beaches like Myrtos and Antisamos to the lush, verdant hills that cover the island, Kefalonia offers an extraordinary mix of natural beauty. Its charming villages, such as Fiskardo and Assos, are steeped in history and Greek tradition, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re an adventure seeker yearning to discover ancient caves and hiking trails, or you simply wish to unwind on golden sands, Kefalonia promises an unforgettable experience for all.
On the way from Argostoli to Fiskardo, Assos stands out from afar, like a verdant “hourglass” thrown into the sea. The exceptional view over its picturesque and verdant peninsula is sure to tempt you to take a short detour and drive the 4 km. winding road that will take you to its small harbor surrounded by pine trees and colorful houses.
The former capital of the northern part of Kefalonia is 30 km. from Argostoli and is located very close to the famous beach of Myrtos. The walk in Assos starts from the central square of Paris, which was named so in honor of the help given by France for the reconstruction of the village after the devastating earthquakes of 1953.
The beach of Myrtos is, undoubtedly, one of the main poles of attraction in Kefalonia. It is located 29 km north of Argostoli, in a beautiful area around huge verdant hills. Myrtos has gained a worldwide reputation and has been constantly included in travel magazines among the most beautiful and impressive beaches in the world. It has been awarded many times for its cleanness and natural beauty.
The natural beauty of Myrtos is the trademark of Kefalonia and one of the most photographed places in Greece.
The beach has a semi-circular shape surrounded by impressive white rocky cliffs with lush vegetation on top of them creating a spectacular setting. The lush green area, the abrupt terrain, the white pebbles and the crystal waters compose a stunning scenery. The beach is well-organized to its most extent, with umbrellas and sundecks while a small part remains completely unspoiled, ideal for total isolation.
The cave of Melissani is located near Karavomilos on the island of Kefalonia. It is a lacustrine cave of unique beauty and fully developed cave, which is 3.5 km long, 40m wide and 36m high. Melissani cave constitutes a unique geological phenomenon. It was created by a mechanical and chemical process called karstikopoiisi (dissolution of rocks) during which water enters the calcareous rocks, erodes them and creates hollows.
The underground Melissani lake was discovered in 1951 by speleontologist Giannis Petrochilos. A big part of its roof has fallen down revealing an amazing sight. During antiquity the lake was a place of worship dedicated to Pan and Nymph Melissani. Myths mention that Melissani committed suicide and fell in the lake because Pan was not responding to her love for him.
The Drogarati Cave in Kefalonia was discovered 300 years ago and opened to the public in 1963. It was discovered when a strong earthquake caused a collapse that revealed the cave’s entrance. Drogarati is an impressive cave with remarkable formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Speleologists state that this cave is about 150 million years old and constitutes a rare geological phenomenon. The cave is about 60m deep and has a constant temperature of 18ΊC. The humidity of the cave reaches 90%.
Agia Effimia is a village on the east coast of the island of Kefalonia in Greece. It was the seat of the former Pylaros municipality. It is a traditional fishing village centered on a small harbor. It contains a number of taverns, bars and shops, a traditional wood-fired bakery, as well as tourist accommodation and local residences. The main activity in the village is now centered on tourism. The harbor is popular with sailing holidays, and is home to flotilla sailing groups. Many of the old buildings in Agia Efimia were destroyed in the 1953 earthquake, although a few original buildings survive. Its population is 638 (2021).
Fiskardo (Greek: Φισκάρδο, also Fiscardo or in the past Viscardo) is a village and a community on the Ionian island of Kefalonia, Greece. It is part of the municipal unit of Erisos. It is the northernmost port of Kefalonia, a short distance from Ithaca. Fiskardo has a small and diminishing fishing fleet. The coast around Fiskardo is mainly rocky with numerous pebble-beached coves. The port serves ferry routes to the ports of Frikes (Ithaca) and Lefkada. It is 5 km north of Vasilikades, 24 km north of Sami and 32 km north of Argostoli. Cephalonia International Airport is 61 km to the south, by road (about 1½ hours). The community of Fiskardo consists of the villages Fiskardo, Evreti, Katsarata, Matsoukata and Tselentata.
Fiskardo is also the name of the two kilometre long bay in which the port is located. Fiskardo and the dense forest in the surrounding area have been declared areas of great natural beauty and are protected under Greek law. In recent years a small tourist industry has developed, centred on luxury villas in the area around the village.
Descending down the mountain to the beach, you’re in for a delight. Antisamos beach is – not surprisingly – one of the most beautiful beaches in Kefalonia. Every shade of blue and green combine to form a sight for sore eyes. Lush vegetation almost reaches the water in a beach awarded with the blue flag.
Antisamos is an organized beach with beach bars, sunbeds and water sports. Ideal for nature lovers, white pebbles and crystal clear waters will dazzle you. And for all film buffs out there, Antisamos was a filming location for the famous movie “Captain Correli’s Mandolin”.
The fortress of Agios Georgios, or Kastro, as it is called today, was the only populous city of Kefalonia from the Middle Ages until 1757. In official Venetian records it is referred to as Città di Cefalonia, meaning City of Kefalonia. Its creation dates back to the twelfth century AD. The Castle of Agios Georgios is one of the important historical sights in Kefalonia. Despite all the damage from the passage of time and seismic vibrations, it stands imposing to this day.
