15 the best places Kefalonia, which are not in the guidebooks
The island of Kefalonia is one of the most beautiful in Greece. Svetlana shared her impressions of her journey through it and spoke about the places that she liked the most. And we have designed it into an ideal holiday program, which allows you to relax and see all the most interesting.
Greece. Unique country where is the story ancient world densely mixed with culinary traditions and winemaking, the ancient ruins coexist perfectly with the Athenian Acropolis that has survived to this day.
It's no secret that in, like in any other tourist developed country, There is popular places which are on everyone's lips. Usually, the Greek titans of a package holiday loom on the surface of a Russian-speaking traveler: Crete and the island of Thassos, the resorts of the Halkidiki peninsula and the monasteries of Meteora, the islands of Corfu, Rhodes and Santorini. Along with them, Greece has a huge number of not very popular, sometimes completely unknown to the general public, but at the same time no less amazing and beautiful places to stay. Since we are independent travelers, in most cases we do not favor crowded tourist locations. That is why this time our choice fell on the Greek island of Kefalonia (Kefalonia / Cephalonia), which is not very well known in wide tourist circles.
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This is the largest of ionian islands in the southwest of Greece and, as the saying goes, the greenest. We went to explore Kefalonia in the second half of September 2017.
Transport logistics
The island of Kefalonia can be reached in two ways - by air and by sea. The island has an airport, but there are no direct flights from Ukraine. Alternatively, you can fly to Kefalonia with a connection in Athens. But the most interesting option for the price-schedule of flights for the dates we were looking for was offered by the UIA airline, whose services we used. The logistics turned out as follows: a direct flight from Kyiv to Athens, at the international airport in Athens, Eleftherios Venizelos, we had a car booked in advance. Then we transited along the upper tip of the Peloponnese peninsula on the way to the port of Kyllini (Kilini / Kyllini), from where ferry flights to the Ionian islands of Zakynthos and Kefalonia start.
On the island of Kefalonia, apartments were also booked in advance for 10 nights in the village of Mousata, 15 km from the capital of the island, Argostoli. In many Russian-language reports that I met before the trip, tourists mostly admired the northern tip of the island or the western coast of Kefalonia. I liked the coastline in the southwest and southeast of the island more, although at that time I could only judge by the photo on google maps. Therefore, housing was chosen closer to the desired beaches. During the 10 days spent on the island, we managed to drive and see quite a lot. I will not talk about those places that are abundantly replicated on the net. I will focus only on what really impressed us.
One of the closest to our “base” in Musat and, indeed, one of the best beaches in Kefalonia is Koroni Beach. It is located in the southwest of the island at the foot of a high mountain. This is a long unequipped beach, that is, you need to understand that it is conditionally wild, where you need to take a towel and a sun umbrella with you. As a bonus - a minimum of people on the beach. We have been here several times different time day, and invariably there were very few people. In my humble opinion, Koroni beach is ideal for a romantic getaway and inspiration: fine golden sand, smooth entry into the water, emerald waters of the Ionian Sea and a stunning panorama before your eyes.
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A little higher up the hillside above Koroni beach, we discovered another amazing place Sesto Koroni Hill Bar - a wine bar with panoramic view. Amazing place, atmospheric. It would seem that everything is so simply done, sometimes from the simplest materials at hand, but the essence is in the sincere atmosphere and hospitality of the owners of the institution (a married couple of Englishmen). It is equally pleasant to be in Sesto Koroni both during the day and in the evening, especially at sunset. The panorama that opens up is breathtaking! Nothing superfluous, only the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and the neighboring island of Zakynthos spreading in a light haze.
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Nearby you can also drop in for a tasting at the Melissinos Winery (one of the best wineries on the island), and we move further along the coast to the south of Kefalonia.
Next stop is Cape Mounda, the southernmost cape of the island. The unusual landscape of the coast: the sandy beach smoothly turns into a powerful stone slab, which goes far into the sea, and closer to the tip of the cape, rocks with bizarre weathering forms and hidden grottoes hang over the coast. From a high hill above Cape Mounda, you can go down to a long, seemingly endless, deserted beach. Beautiful scenery... and space, space! And the same stunning wind, which happens only on extreme points earth.
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We get into the car again and drive further, moving to the southeast of the island. First, we pass the lively village of Skala, and literally after a few kilometers we park the car near the next object of our interest, the bay with the poetic name Kato Lagadi. There are no landmarks or signs along the route, only a small spot along the road, where the cars of those who are in the know are left ... That's right: the bulk of tourists are brought to the bay on yachts and boats by sea, so there are no signs along the road. But there is still a land passage to the bay. The trail and the descent to the sea are moderately extreme, but if you have at least minimal physical fitness and experience in hiking, there will be no problems.
The bay of Kato Lagadi is an amazing landscape of the coast, a series of grottoes and tiny coves with small pebbles and a smooth entry into the water. Great place for snorkeling! It is better to come in the morning, when the sun's rays brightly illuminate everything around and the cave grottoes can be seen in all their glory. After lunch, the sun goes behind Mount Enos and the grottoes hide in the shade. However, pictures speak louder than words:
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Our next point of interest is famous beach Antisamos, one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece according to TripAdvisor. A side note: we don't like public beaches by default. According to our version, the ideal beach is when there are at least or no people on it, and there is also a minimum of tourist infrastructure. Being alone with nature is our main desire on vacation. In the case of Antisamos beach, this is the rare exception when we changed our principles. The beach is really amazingly beautiful. First, the view! The view of the bay, deep and elongated like a fjord, and the neighboring island of Ithaca opens up indescribably. Legends and myths ancient greece, The Iliad and The Odyssey by Homer come to life before your eyes... and it's truly breathtaking to just see it with your own eyes! By the way, as the local Greeks say, in the strait between Kefalonia and Ithaca, there is ancient city the time of Odysseus. It remains only to take their word for it. In general, on the island, quite a lot of reminders of the Mycenaean culture (the period in the history of Greece from the 16th to the 11th century BC) and later periods have survived to this day, in particular the museum under open sky Acropolis of Ancient Same (located high on a mountain above Antisamos beach, admission is free).
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Antisamos beach is also unique in that it is usually completely calm here. This is due to the fact that the bay in which the beach is located is “covered” from the sea by the mainland and the island of Ithaca, and from the land side it is reliably protected by the amphitheater of high mountains. And indeed, it was verified by experience, even when a serious storm broke out one day, the sea in Antisamos Bay was calm and comfortable for swimming. In fairness, it should be noted that for all the aesthetic beauty, the beach has its drawbacks: there are quite large pebbles underfoot, and the depth starts literally from the shore, so this beach is not very suitable for families with small children. But if you are an aesthete and your rich inner world is in dire need of new doses of earthly beauty, then Antisamos beach is at your service.
However, you will not be satisfied with natural beauties alone, so we are going in search of Greek goodies. Each country has its own signature dish or product - a specialty. This is part of the gastronomic history and culture of a particular country, where culinary traditions are respected. In Greece, one of the most famous specialties is, of course, Greek yogurt. It is difficult to do without it in Hellas.
Our guesthouse neighbors, the Italians, warmly recommended one place in Kefalonia where you should definitely have breakfast in the Greek style. What can I say, Italians know a lot about gourmet food! This is a real oasis… a very small open area, but making and submitting an order, easy communication with a young and cheerful hostess of the establishment – this is exactly the rare case when the memory of something sticks in the memory for a long time and is mentally savored with a slight nostalgia over time.
Breakfast in the tiny and inconspicuous Myrtillo is worthy of a separate story. This is not only a positive charge and a full stomach, but also a real taste pleasure. We only stopped by for breakfast at Myrtillo once on the way to Myrtos Beach (the Myrtillo cafe-shop is located on the main west coast highway, between two observation decks on Myrtos Beach), but I really remember this place. Here you can buy local homemade and other only nature Greek specialties (honey, jam, jam, nuts) as souvenirs, and there is also a small outdoor area with tables where you can eat.
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A proper Greek breakfast, like everything ingenious, is extremely simple. Greek yogurt, honey, tahini (sesame paste), nuts. You can also add seasonal fruits or homemade jam. It is not for nothing that, according to statistics, it is on the Greek islands that the most centenarians are, because with delicious natural food you can afford to live healthy and healthy for many years.
If it is ideal to come to Myrtillo for breakfast, then for dinner it is advisable to climb higher into the mountains. For example, excellent young lamb can be tasted not far from resort town Sami. Our goal - mountain village Poulata. The owner of the house where we rented an apartment told us about this place. In fact, this is an ordinary village in the mountains, which is notable only for the fact that the local specialty is excellently cooked here - the meat of a young lamb. You can also try lamb, goat and other mixed meat grills. But it is the rack of lamb on the coals - a masterpiece of the local Greek cuisine.
In the village of Poulata there is a popular tourist establishment "Rambolis Grill Lamb Reataurant", where tourists are brought by bus after an excursion in the cave of Melissani (this is the "visiting card" of Kefalonia, which is located in the vicinity of the city of Sami). And very close to this restaurant there is a small family tavern, the name of which cannot be reproduced in Greek (look at the photo). You need to come in the evening, by 8 o'clock is ideal. Because at 7 pm the workers are just getting ready to receive guests, and at 9 pm there may already be no empty seats left. They work until late as long as there are visitors. Very tasty, the portions are impressive, the prices are democratic, and the attitude towards the guests is good-natured. The owners of the institution receive guests in a family way, and the food and service are beyond praise!
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By the way, the basic principle of choosing catering places in Greece (however, this applies to many European countries). Many domestic tourists can find stereotypical thinking about how a catering establishment (restaurant, cafe, confectionery or coffee shop) should look like. How are we usually? That's right: a cafe-restaurant will be cool and tasty if it looks at least decent: a beautiful interior, fabric tablecloths and napkins, expensive dishes, etc. This is a delicious restaurant. Tasty and expensive, otherwise nothing. As you understand, the rules of "appearance" of taverns, familiar to compatriots, in Greece do not work from the word "completely". In Greece, taverns focus primarily on the quality and taste of the food. That is, if the food is tasteless, then you can do nothing further - there are no people in this tavern, and there will not be. Then the second most important is the view from the tavern, and only after that, almost in the last place, we are talking about design, beautiful dishes, napkins, etc.
Ask me which tavern in Greece is the most memorable and sunk into the soul? The answer is simple: this is a tavern somewhere in the mountainous wilderness or inconspicuous nooks and crannies of the old city, in a completely ordinary room, with the same usual ordinary people who prepare and serve food. After all, it is the delicious food and the sincere atmosphere that are remembered, and not the well-trained waiters and the original design. Although this also has the right to be, but definitely not in Greece.
It would be worth starting with the fact that in Greece you always need to pay attention to the sign of the institution. It is a great rarity that in front of the tavern on English language was written "taverna", most likely they will write "restaurant" in English. But a restaurant is exactly a restaurant with all the attributes: waiters, white tablecloths, etc. Real restaurants in Greece are a rare phenomenon that you can only find in big cities like Athens or Thessaloniki, or in hotels. Their cuisine is also usually European. Therefore, the sign "restaurant" is a deliberate substitution of concepts for foreign tourists. If you want to taste real Greek cuisine, you need a tavern with its discreet simplicity and "family".
When the stomach is full, usually you also want circuses. Or if you suddenly get bored from a measured rest, and there is a desire to dilute the languor of being, you can go to the north of the island, in Big city ok Fiskardo. Here is a large marina for yachts, around which everything is sharpened for tourism for the discerning public. In short - pathetic, expensive, cocktail bars, taverns, restaurants. Anything your heart desires, for every taste and budget. In Fiskardo, in addition to the ancient architecture, I remember impudent and not at all prudish young Englishmen, blond Scandinavians, cheerful and loud Italians, drunken and noisy Czechs ... the marina in Fiskardo is large, the audience is motley and colorful. You won't be bored, that's for sure! But for a relaxing holiday It is better to choose housing in the immediate vicinity; you should not be based in Fiskardo itself.
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In the meantime we're circling northern part Kefalonia and smoothly move to the western coast of the island, closer to impregnable rocky bays and the piercing blue Ionian Sea, well known from publications in glossy magazines. The first thing that catches the eye from the height of the main route is a long cape protruding into the sea. The view is incredible, so it's impossible to just drive by! This is Assos - perhaps one of the most beautiful and spectacular places in Kefalonia.
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Assos is a small cozy town located on the isthmus between the mainland and the peninsula crowned with a Venetian fortress. The town itself is miniature and very touristy, which is not surprising in view of its special external attractiveness, and in terms of the number of idle tourists it can easily compete with pathos Fiskardo. Assos looks equally great from far and near! Houses with bright colored facades stretch up the slope of a small enclosed bay. In the narrow cobbled streets, large tubs and tall earthenware pots full of decorative and profusely flowering plants are found everywhere, which I especially like in the south. Fishing boats and small yachts sway in the marina, taverns with tables along the water, inviting smells of cooking food spread, and then spicy aromas excite the receptors. Colorful reality is pleasing to the eye, and emotions are overwhelmed inside ... a real Mediterranean idyll.
If you are not too lazy and along a wide winding path lined with marble, climb to the top of the peninsula to Venetian fortress(Castle of Assos of the 15th century), then you will be rewarded for your work and perseverance - the views are grandiose!
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We move further along the western coast of Kefalonia. In this part of the island, the main road is laid at a decent height. At a decent height along sheer cliffs! I don't know how anyone perceives reality, but I'm always impressed when a Man masters mountains, "taming" them to his needs. Just imagine: along the western coast of Kefalonia, the road is cut in places in huge boulders, which causes genuine surprise and, of course, respect for the people who built it. And now ride on perfect mountain roads– sheer pleasure, despite the endless twists and turns. After all, behind each of them a new unique view opens up, and you want to make stops as often as possible to capture this beauty as a keepsake. But, alas, there are very few suitable places for this. The track is laid out in two lanes, fences on both sides, blind closed turns…
Following the settlement of Assos is the famous Greek beach Myrtos and one of the few equipped sites along the route where you can stay. This Observation deck Myrthos Beach Viewpoint. There are not enough words to express the fullness of feelings and emotions when you see the piercing blue in real life!
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Myrtos beach, along with the Melissani cave, is the visiting card of Kefalonia. We did not go down to the beach itself, according to reviews it is not very convenient for swimming. It is usually very stormy here and a strong wind often blows, due to the fact that the beach "looks" into the open sea. There are large pebbles on the shore, and the depth begins immediately from the shore. But outwardly, especially from a bird's eye view, this is a dream beach.
Further along the western coast of Kefalonia between the beach of Myrtos and the village of Zola there are several more moderately beautiful beaches and lagoons, but we go further - to the "secret" bay. Lost in the mountains at the northwestern tip of the Paliki Peninsula, Atheras Bay strikes with its beauty at first sight. In a carefully closed bay, a promontory protruding far into the sea, everything is perfectly suited for swimming and a relaxing holiday - moderately secluded, small pebbles on the shore, a clean bottom and a calm sea. And the view is awesome, it is very important!
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I can not ignore the capital of Kefalonia - Argostoli (Argostoli). This is the main transport node islands, most of the hotels and large supermarkets are concentrated around the capital, and the promenade along the coastal part of the city will bring a lot of pleasure. The city center and the beautiful promenade, lined with multi-colored pebbles in a frame, are interesting. date palms. And it doesn’t matter if it’s morning, afternoon or evening – there is something to do in the capital at any time of the day.
The city of Argostoli spreads widely in the form of an amphitheater along the shore of a large lagoon. There is an airport near the capital and for spotting fans this is a place of power. In addition to a large selection of beaches in the vicinity of Argostoli, there are several notable places. For example, the observation point on the edge of the cape, the active lighthouse of St. Theodora (Agion Theodoron), better known as the Fanari lighthouse, and near it is the Katavothres Sea Mill. Actually, usually this section (between Argostoli and the lighthouse) tourists fly by in cars without stopping. But in vain! From Argostoli, a path stretches along the sea through natural Park, where along the way you meet small coves suitable for swimming, pines, cypresses and junipers, thanks to which you can breathe in the heady Mediterranean coniferous air. I can’t even believe that there are such quiet, relatively deserted places very close to the noisy capital of the island.
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The mill, located near the lighthouse, is a very unusual place. It is not so much an engineering structure that is interesting as Katavotres, a unique geological phenomenon of the island of Kefalonia. Usually on the island the river flows into the sea, but on the island of Kefalonia everything happens the other way around. Streams of sea water fall into underwater karst crevices near the village of Katavothres (on the outskirts of Argostoli), then they pass under the island from west to east and appear on the surface already in the village of Karavomylos (near the city of Sami), where they then flow into the cave lake Melissani.
In 1963, geologists from the Austrian University dropped 160 kg of paint in the area underground tunnels village Katavotres., and after 15 days traces of this paint appeared in the water on the eastern side of the island. The Englishman Stevens was the first observer to describe this unusual phenomenon. It was he who decided to use the energy of the water lost in the "catavotra" (in the crevice) and built there water mill which we can see today.
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What else is remarkable in Argostoli? Every day in the morning and in the evening on the embankment you can take part in a free "attraction" - feeding sea turtles. On one of the days, we specially arrived early in the morning on the Argostoli embankment in order to see Caretta-caretta turtles up close. It happens like this: at 9 am, fishermen with their morning catch moor to the pier on the embankment, where the first buyers of fresh fish are already waiting for them. A spontaneous fish mini-bazaar is being formed. The fish is immediately butchered for the buyers and the giblets are dumped here into the water. Turtles come to them to feast on them. If you see crowds of people on the embankment, it means that there are turtles there.
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And, completing the topic of Argostoli, I want to note that it is in the capital that an active tourist life is in full swing. Here is the brightest evening promenade and, in principle, only in this place the night life was noticed. In addition, Argostoli has a huge selection of establishments: taverns, restaurants, nightclubs, cocktail bars, pizzerias. And, of course, the Greek version of fast food “giradiko” and “suvladzidiko” is widely represented (the first is called “gyros” after the dish, and the second takes its name from “suvlaki” - these are small skewers). In terms of cuisine, Argostoli has everything your heart desires, for every taste. We have dined here several times at various establishments, but the most memorable family restaurant Greek cuisine Casa Grec, lost in the narrow streets of the old city.
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From Argostoli, you can conveniently and fairly quickly move to the Paliki peninsula. You can get there by land, but it is much more comfortable to get there by water. The ferry-bus Argostoli-Lixouri, which sails every half hour from the port of one capital of the island to another and back (Lixouri is the capital of the Paliki peninsula), takes on board both passengers and cars.
The assembly point for vacationers on the Paliki Peninsula is the popular "red" Xi Beach. We deliberately skip it and keep the path a little further, our goal is the neighboring Koutala Beach. Most of the beaches on the coast of the Paliki peninsula are known for their characteristic and expressive combination: a thin strip of bright red sand on the shore and high clay cliffs (they say that this clay has a cosmetic effect, and you can smear yourself with it like in a spa - I can only take my word for it, we haven't tried). Looks great on a sunny day!
The sea is shallow and calm. Quiet, secluded, almost no people. Also in my opinion beautiful place for holidays with small children - shallow, warm sea, sand.
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Kefalonia is a green island surrounded by the emerald waters of the Ionian Sea, it is an island of secrets and interesting phenomena:
♦ here sea water disappears from Argostoli and ends up in the atmospheric cave of Lake Melissani, where it creates a reflection on the walls of the cave
♦ according to the stories of the inhabitants of Kefalonia, every year in mid-August, harmless snakes crawl into the church of Panagia in Markopoulo and St. Gerasimus (the patron saint of the island), these days they celebrate the Assumption of the Virgin
♦ in Kefalonia, goats have golden teeth, although this phenomenon was explained - the soil of the island is rich in minerals, so goats have golden teeth
Kefalonia has a rich history from prehistoric times. The island prospered during the classical era and was the prey of many conquerors due to its strategic position. The ruins of powerful ancient cities have been found in various places on the island, castles and monasteries with magnificent views, such as the castle of St. George and the monastery of Kipouraion are remnants of the Byzantine and Venetian periods.
The libraries in Argostoli Korgialleneios and Lixouri Iakovateios have rare collections of books. The philharmonic orchestras of the two cities are very popular with residents and guests of the island. The religion and culture of Kefalonia come together and organize great events and festivals here, especially those dedicated to the feasts of St. Gerasimos and the Assumption of the Virgin.
Even though the devastating earthquake of 1953 hit the island and destroyed Kefalonia almost completely, the island managed to rise from the ashes and become a tourist attraction both in Greece and around the world without losing its authentic character.
Most of the beaches are unspoilt and offer spectacular scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. The hallmark of Kefalonia is Myrtos Beach, but there are other beaches no less famous and beautiful, such as Antisamos, where the movie Captain Corelli's Mandolin was filmed, Xi beach in Lixouri, where reddish sand and mountains of blue clay act as a natural spa, crowded beaches in Skala , in Platys Gialos and Makryialos, for those who prefer sun loungers and other services.
It goes without saying that staying will not be a problem in terms of accommodation in Kefalonia, as there are many hotels, villas, studios and rooms in the capital of the island and tourist resorts in Lassi and Skala or picturesque towns such as Sami and Lixouri.
Nightlife may seem very limited to you, in some areas it doesn't exist at all, but in Argostoli you are guaranteed fun until the early hours of the morning.
However, Kefalonia is an island where you can get away from modern city life and spend amazing holidays in nature and by the sea. The taverns of Kefalonia, located on the seashore, will delight you with traditional village food, be sure to try Kefalonia meat pies - aliada (aliada) and patisiada (pastitsada).
The island of Kefalonia is not only famous for its unusual phenomena, it is a place where a modern lifestyle is harmoniously combined with traditions and calm Mediterranean habits. Any visitor to the island of Kefalonia, if desired, can stay here forever!
In surveys of travelers about the most best island Greece, many vote for Kefalonia, sometimes the island is second only to Santorini, and sometimes competes with Crete, Paros, Skiathos or Mykonos.
Visit the paradise of Kefalonia and see for yourself whether it rightfully takes first place in the public opinion polls. Anyway, Kefalonia will definitely remain in your heart!
Resort villages of the island of Kefalonia:
Capital of the island of Argostoli (Αργοστόλι)
Argostoli combines the mobility and intensity of city life, lively nightlife, shopping trips, refreshing drinks in cozy cafes and relaxing on beautiful beaches under the Greek sun.
This is the largest city on the island and has been the capital since 1757, and although the earthquake of 1953 completely destroyed it, the architectural buildings of the old city with its typical Venetian mansions were still preserved.
For those who want to get to know the history and culture of the island better, we highly recommend visiting Archaeological Museum and the city library of Argostoli.
Argostoli is home to the ancient city of Kaski, which was one of the four most powerful cities of Kefalonia in ancient times. Parts of the ancient city walls have been preserved, which are known as the Cyclopean walls because of their size. The De Bosse Bridge is part of the modern history of Argostoli and was built during the British occupation.
Near Argostoli are the sandy beaches of Makris Gialos and Platys Gialos. These are the two most popular organized beaches of Kefalonia. There are other beaches in the area such as Gradakia and Kamaroules.
Huge sea turtles have chosen several beaches in Argostoli to come and lay their eggs every year, they are also a local attraction.
The city has an airport and has a permanent maritime connection with the mainland and nearby islands and Ithaca. Argostoli also has a regular ferry service to the second largest city of Kefalonia, Lixouri (distance 3 nautical miles). As a confirmation of maritime traditions, the city has a higher nautical school.
Lixouri (Ληξούρι)
Lixouri is one of the most picturesque towns on the island, yet big enough to provide you with everything you need for a city life. It is the second largest city after Argostoli and is located on the largest peninsula of Paliki.
The ancient city was called Pali and was so powerful that it had its own coin. Modern name The city - Leksuri is first mentioned in a document of 1534, he played an important role in the alliance with mainland Greece.
The Typaldos-Iakovaton Mansion, which today has been converted into a library, is one of the most important sights in Lixouri.
The main sights in the region are also the ancient city of Pali, which was probably a Corinthian colony, and the Church of St. Charalambos, the patron saint of the city of Lixouri.
Lixouri has numerous hotels and studios to cater for travelers of all kinds and all preferences. The locals will greet you with all their hearts and offer you best services to spend the most wonderful holiday in Kefalonia!
Of course, rest also means good food, Lixouri has many taverns and restaurants serving Greek and international cuisine. In addition to Greek cuisine, many Italian dishes are prepared here, as Kefalonia is very close to Italy and the Venetian influence of the past is still evident in many aspects of the culture of the Ionian Islands.
The beaches of Lixouri
Here is the famous Xi beach, which is a natural resort! The beach is rich in deposits of blue clay blocks, you can feel the benefits of clay baths for yourself, because all vacationers will certainly try to make a clay mask for the whole body, knowing the beneficial properties of blue clay.
Lepeda beach with impressive rocks is suitable for underwater excursions, while on Kounopetra beach you will see one of the attractions of the island - a moving rock. A large stone located on this beach moves rhythmically and no one can explain this strange phenomenon.
By the way, not far from Xi beach, towards Kunupetra, there is a small water park, here you can relax with the whole family, the ticket costs 5 euros.
Lixouri has two of the most beautiful beach Kefalonia - Petani beach and Platia Ammos. Both are relatively unspoiled and therefore ideal for couples and nature lovers or just for those looking for a bit of peace and quiet. Petani Beach has a Blue Flag and competes in beauty with Myrtos Beach. White pebbles combined with the turquoise color of the sea, leave an indelible impression of natural beauty.
Sami (Σάμη)
Sami combines a rich history and beautiful nature and therefore falls in love with travelers at first sight. Surrounded by lush vegetation, underground caves and beautiful lakes, Sami offers incredibly beautiful landscapes.
The city was and is one of the four largest cities Kefalonia. Inhabited since prehistoric times, Sami is still a safe haven for domestic and foreign ships. Ancient monuments show that Sami was a flourishing city. Here are the ruins of the ancient castle of Paleokastro, on the top of the hill is the monastery of Agrilia (Agrilia), named after the trees of the same name that surround it. From here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Gulf of Sami and the island of Ithaca.
Before these settlements, you can get there by bus or by rented car. Patras is closer to Athens than Kyllini, but the ferry ride will take longer.
The bus leaves from Athens, KTEL (bus station) Kifisu, 100. The bus reaches Patras or Kyllini and also calls on the ferry, i.e. you will be sold a ticket for both the bus and the ferry.
From the city of Patras, the ferry will take you to Kefalonia to Argostoli or to the village of Sami, the sea journey will take 3.5 hours, the ticket costs 25 euros. Patras can also be reached by train.
From Kyllini you arrive at the port of Poros, the sea journey takes 2 hours, the cost of the ferry ticket is about 10 euros.
A combined bus + ferry ticket costs about 50 euros.
If you arrive at Athens airport, the X 93 express goes from there, its final stop is the KTEL you need.
For a trip to Kefalonia, you may need phone numbers:
KTEL (Athens) information about Kefalonia +30 210 51 50785
port city of Patras +30 2610-341002
Port of Killini +30 26230-92211
Sami port +30 26460-41052
airport about. Kefalonia +3026710 29900
Updated: 4 Mar, 2020
The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a great place to relax, which will appeal to lovers of colorful beaches and sunny resorts. It is located in the heart of the Ionian Sea and is the largest of the islands in this region.
The area of Kefalonia is 800 square kilometers. The Enos mountain range is located on its territory, the highest point is 1628 m. Big City- Argostoli, which is also the capital of the province of Kefalonia. The local population is only 40 thousand people.
Kefalonia is a fairly young resort in Greece. During the Second World War, it was badly damaged by the blows of the enemy army, and in 1953 there was an earthquake that destroyed everything that was built on the island. It was these events that caused the infrastructure and tourism in Kelafoniya to develop only at the end of the 80s of the 20th century.
Island airport On the territory of the island there is an airport, which is located near the capital of Kefalonia. Most often, planes land here from, but the city also receives charter flights from many European countries. Get on neighboring islands Greece travelers can use ferries. In addition, this vehicle delivers residents to the coast of the Peloponnese, to Kyllini.
Kefalonia is popular for its modernized spots, such as nightclubs, cafes and cinemas, but it also has quiet coastlines and beautiful mountains where the iron hand of progress has not yet reached.
The best beaches of Kefalonia
The most popular attraction of the island is its coast. In total, Kefalonia has more than 60 beaches. Among the most popular, beautiful, picturesque and clean, the following are worth noting.
Captain Nicholas The choice of restaurants on the island is large. The cost of dishes in restaurants is significantly different: you can have lunch together for 10€, or you can dine for 80€.
For example, consider one of the high-rated middle-class establishments - Captain Nicolas (to enlarge the photo - click on it). The restaurant is in high demand among tourists. Located in the village of Lixouri on a site surrounded by trees and flowering plants with a beautiful view of the sea -. The staff here is attentive, and the owner personally communicates with visitors.
Fish and seafood are excellently cooked here, and they are worth ordering. The average check is 20-25 € for two.
Among the rest, we can distinguish establishments:
- Ladokolla stin Plagia in Liskur;
- Cafe Platanos - atmospheric cafe in Lourdos with affordable prices;
- Kastro Cafe - near the castle of St. George, desserts are served here for a price of 4-5 €.
The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a great place to relax. Here you will not only get distracted from everyday problems, bask under the bright sun and enjoy the turquoise waters, but also have fun at concerts, in restaurants and on ferries. Have a good trip!
- The island was mentioned in his works by Homer. True, then it was called Sama.
- First famous people people lived on Kefalonia in the 15th century BC
- If you want to see the huge carriage-carriage turtles, head to the city of Argostoli. There are fishermen on boats fish market at 8-9 in the morning they clean the fish and throw the rest into the water, where the turtles are already waiting for the “goodies”.
The infrastructure facilities mentioned in the article are marked on the map below.
Video from the island of Kefalonia.
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Kefalonia- the largest of all Greek islands Ionian Sea. To the north of it is about. Lefkada, to the east - the famous Ithaca, the birthplace of Homer's Odysseus, and to the south - Fr. Zakynthos. high points Kefalonia - Mount Enos and Rudi (1627 m and 1130 m respectively), its total area is 671 km².
The first mention of the local inhabitants - the Kefalonians, are found in Homer's poem "The Iliad". In that distant era, their lands were part of the state of Odysseus. In later periods of history, many conquerors visited the island. Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Turks, Venetians, French and English dominated its lands. And only in 1864 he finally became part of Greece.
The beauty of the nature of Kefalonia is striking at first sight. It harmoniously combines the greenery of the mountain slopes covered with coniferous trees and the riot of colors of flowers that can be seen in every corner of the island.
If you wish, you can travel around Kefalonia all year round, every day visiting a new place - after all, there are 365 villages! Each of them boasts something unusual, but all the villages are united by traditional Greek architecture, an abundance of greenery and flowers, with which the locals love to decorate balconies, courtyards and facades of buildings.
Unfortunately, a powerful earthquake in 1953 also left its mark on the island. Many houses were destroyed, including the majestic buildings of the Venetian period. Nevertheless, there is something to see in Kefalonia: modern architecture has complemented the appearance of cities and towns, and lush gardens still delight the eyes of visitors.
Video: dreamways.ru
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Attractions of Kefalonia
Monastery Saint Andrew And Church of Panagia Languvarda- the most interesting sights of Kefalonia that survived the earthquake. The monastery is notable for the fact that it houses a unique relic - a part of the right foot of the Apostle Andrew from the monastery. There is also a museum with Byzantine icons and church vestments.
An interesting story is associated with Church of Panagia Languvarda, which is located in the village of Markopulo. According to legend, during the reign of the Byzantines, pirates landed on the island. In order to save the nuns of the local monastery, the Mother of God turned them into small snakes. Since then, every year on the day of the Assumption of the Virgin (August 15), many snakes with crosses appear in the village. The parishioners catch them and bring them to the icon of the Mother of God of the Serpent. People believe that if you attach a snake to a sore spot or even just hold it in your hands, you can be healed of ailments. Naturally, hundreds of pilgrims come to Markopulo on this day to see the miracle with their own eyes.
While relaxing in Kefalonia, you can visit other, no less wonderful places:
- Unique underground lake-cave Melissani formed as a result of an earthquake
- Drogarity Cave at a depth of 44 meters, which is about 150 million years old
- The highest mountain in the Ionian Islands Enos(1628 meters).
- Fortress of Asos built at the beginning of the 17th century
- The domed tomb of the Mycenaean period Zanatu, the burials of which scientists date back to 1400-1000 BC.
- Ruins of a Roman villa, on the walls of which magnificent mosaics have been preserved
The beaches of Kefalonia
Among the beaches of Kefalonia it is difficult to give preference to any one, because every corner of the island has a unique and charming atmosphere in its own way. But there are several world-famous beaches that guests of the island try to visit in the first place.
Ammes. Small calm beach, covered with golden fine-grained sand, is located in the village of Svoronata. Good bonus: there is an airport nearby.
Antisamos. The beach is located in a bay near the town of Sami, not far from the main port, and is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful not only in Kefalonia, but throughout Greece. And no wonder: here the green slopes of the mountains approach the crystal clear water, forming amazing idyllic landscapes.
Makris Yialos. This beach is known for the best infrastructure on the island: there are cafes, eateries and restaurants, you can rent umbrellas, sunbeds and all the necessary equipment for relaxing on the water. Makry Gialos is celebrated annually blue flag- international quality mark.
Platys Gialos. This beach is part of a coastline with Makris Gialos, it is also well equipped and marked with the Blue Flag. But it is Platys Gialos that tourists call the Greek Riviera. Pine trees, flowers and other green spaces form a special charm and charm of this stretch of coast.
Myrtos. A large number of tourists come to about. Kefalonia just to see the world famous beach Myrtos. It looks especially impressive from the height of the surrounding rocks - a strip of snow-white sand with an oncoming azure wave beckons you to go down the mountain serpentine and relax on the seashore.
Xi. Xi Beach, located near the city of Lixouri, is interesting for its unusual yellow-red sand. It is believed that local clay has healing properties, so many vacationers smear themselves with it and thus take sunbaths. The descent into the water on Xi is gentle, shallow here, so tourists with children prefer the beach. There is where to eat and relax - there are many eateries, hotels and apartments in the beach area. Xi is also awarded the Blue Flag of Quality.
Rock. Sand beach The rock is one of the widest and longest (about 3 km) on the island. It is located on the territory of the city of the same name, so all the amenities of civilization are at hand.
Map of Kefalonia island
Photo: Mouzenidis Travel
