The Kefalonian landscape is stunning. Mountains soar to over 1600 metres; beaches range from long stretches of the finest golden sand to tiny white-pebble coves; pine forests swathe the hillsides; whilst in the fertile valleys, olive and citrus are cultivated. The whole is lapped by the bluest of seas. Like all the Ionian islands, Kefalonia is at its best in the springtime and early summer when the wild flowers are literally brilliant.
There is so much to see on Kefalonia that car hire is almost essential at some stage as the local bus services are limited. The northern coastal road reveals dizzy vistas of cliff and sea, the classic view being of glistening Myrtos Beach far below. (Watch out for goats on the road here!). A little further on is Assos – another photo-stop with village, peninsula and fortress. On the northern tip is the chocolate-box fishing village of Fiscardo, facing Ithaca. Sleepy Agia Efimia on the north-east coast remains authentically Greek. It has some fine tavernas and a good choice of sheltered, pretty pebble beaches nearby. It is close to the small town of Sami, from where the ferry-boat runs to Ithaca.
The south is dominated by Mount Aenos, the highest peak on the island, although the coastal views here are gentler. A myriad of small villages skirts the lower slopes of the mountain, and the road eventually brings you to the burgeoning resort of Scala with its long sandy beach.
The capital, Argostoli, is a modern, bustling town with wide streets lined with palms, a wonderful main square and some excellent restaurants. The two museums here are worth visiting. Kefalonia’s second town (and Argostoli’s arch rival), Lixouri, lies across the strait and is best reached by one of the frequent ferry boats which ply between the two.
Elsewhere there are underground caves to explore, hidden monasteries to seek out, and numerous simple village tavernas to sample (along with the excellent local wine!).
Of course, beaches are never far away, but we stress that Kefalonia should be explored to get the most from your holiday.
Recommended Reading
Island Information Pack
Friends of the Ionian are offering an Island Information Pack. The Pack includes an “At a Glance Guide”, an island map, a self-guided trail and general information and costs £3.95. See the FOI website for details >
