O. Kefalonia. Kefalonia island in Greece Kefalonia island

Interesting facts about the island of Kefalonia

In the center of the Ionian Sea there is a large Kefalonia island(Kefalonia, Kefalonia), washed by sapphire waters. Mysterious and romantic, concealing the riches of culture, giving rest to the soul and body. The island is the largest of those located in the Ionian Sea. It is named after the mythical hero Cephalus.

The island's landscape is varied - secluded bays, sandy beaches, mysterious caves. Unlike the east coast, the western part of Kefalonia is rocky.

Large administrative center of the province of Kefalonia - city ​​of Argostoli.

Greece is attractive for its comfortable Mediterranean climate. Most precipitation falls in winter. Winters are mild, mostly without snow. Summer is hot and dry. July is the hottest, with air temperatures above 25 degrees.

Amazing natural beauty of Kefalonia

In the cozy village of Karavomylos there is salt lake Melissani- a geological anomaly, water from it flows through a small channel into the sea. The lake is fed by groundwater. Sea water goes deep under the island, covers 17 km in a few weeks, making its way through underground channels, is partially desalinated and ends up in the water located in the cave. The water surface becomes unrealistically blue when it receives sunlight penetrating through the opening of the rock arch. Part of the cave's dome collapsed about 4,000 years ago, which is how this place was discovered.

Scientists have approximately restored the age of the cave - it is about 30,000 years old. This place is a paradise for a photographer, where you can take photographs that are unique in their beauty and fantastic colors and shapes. The unreal blue of the lake turns green when the lighting changes.

There are legends about this place. It’s as if one nymph named Melissani fell in love with the god Pan, a flighty and fickle tempter. The nymph's feelings remained unrequited. She cried so bitterly that a lake formed from her tears. It accepted into its waters a girl who had suffered from unrequited love.

When this place was discovered, clay figurines of the god Pan and nymphs were found inside.

People believe that if a couple in love holds hands and immerses them in water, their love will be eternal and happy. If a person wants to find a beloved (beloved), then he needs to wash his face with lake water and love will soon come.

A special pleasure is a boat trip on the lake, the depth of which in some places reaches 14 m. The water is cold - only 15 degrees. The lake is home to eel and mullet.

The water is so transparent and clean that people in the boat feel as if they are floating in weightlessness, because the bottom can be seen from any place and the illusion of being between heaven and earth is created.

A unique place in Kefalonia - huge Dragoratti cave 40 km long, supposedly turning into a whole gallery of caves.

It is famous for its unique surface topography and the whimsical shapes of stalactites and stalagmites. There are stalactites 2 m long in it, and the process of their formation continues to this day. Stalactites grow very slowly - 1 centimeter per hundred years, you can roughly calculate how ancient this cave is.

There is a legend that speaks of a dragon that lived in this cave, which is where its name comes from.

The cave is located at a depth of 60 m. It maintains a constant temperature all year round - 18 degrees.

The cave has excellent acoustics. In its central hall with an area of ​​45x65 m there is a unique concert hall with 800 seats. For its wonderful acoustics, the room was called the “Hall of Perfection”; its height is 20 m.

The cave was discovered about 300 years ago - a strong earthquake “opened” the entrance to it, collapsing part of the vault. Acquaintance with the beauty of this place has been open since 1963.

The Enos mountain range is a national reserve, on the territory of which unique plants listed in the Red Book are found.

A rare species of fir grows on the mountainous slopes - Abiescephalonica - an evergreen coniferous plant from the Pine family. It is found exclusively in Greece. The needles of the tree have a very rich dark green color, appearing black, and the mountains themselves appear black due to the many fir trees. The Venetians called them "Monte Nero".

An amazing religious phenomenon has been spotted on the island. In the village of Markopulo there is the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. On the day of the religious holiday - the day of the Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15, snakes crawl up to the miraculous icon, with a pattern on their heads in the form of a black cross - this is their coloring. On this day they do not sting people and you can even pick them up. This phenomenon repeats itself year after year. Local residents say that in the 20th century reptiles did not crawl to the temple twice - this was an omen of tragic events - war and a powerful earthquake that occurred in 1953.

Kefalonia is an earthquake-prone zone. The 1953 earthquake destroyed all cities and most villages, except Fiscardo (northern settlement). France, America and Australia provided assistance to the residents - they supplied the residents with food, water, and medicine. That year, many residents of Kefalonia moved to America, Africa and Australia, because their homes were destroyed.

Discovering the sights of Kefalonia

Local residents lead an active, vibrant life, which can be seen in crowded squares and markets where brisk trade takes place. Narrow streets with houses in a distinctive style under red tiles are a pleasant delight to the eye. In many national cafes, tourists taste traditional centuries-old cuisine. Kefalonia is a place rich in attractions, which can only be explored through active recreation and visiting many excursions. The colorful shimmer of the sea, the blue of underground lakes, the grandeur of huge stalactite caves will amaze you with their natural mysteries and wonders.

Sightseeing tour of Kefalonia includes visits to unique places:

1. Castle of the Assos Peninsula.
2. Katavotres.
3. Drogarati Caves.
4. Melissani Cave Lake.
5. Monastery of St. Gerasim.

A café in a picturesque the village of Fiskardo.

Many ancient shrines have been preserved in Kefalonia. Operating churches and monasteries contain rare icons and unique altars.

The Monastery of St. Gerasim is located in the Omala Valley near Argostoli. October 20 – St. Day Gerasima. He lived for 5 years as a hermit in the Lassi caves. In 1560, Saint Gerasim restored the chapel of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is still active today. In the same year, St. Gerasim laid the first stone of the currently operating convent, in which his relics are still kept. If you visit this temple, you will be able to see the cave where the saint led a hermit’s life.

People believe that two ancient plane trees growing on the territory of the monastery were planted by St. himself. Gerasim. The area was waterless, and the saint personally dug 3 large and 37 small wells.

Beaches of Kefalonia

Greek island of Kefalonia famous for its beaches. Its unique places have been awarded the Blue Flag label - an international award that has been awarded since 1987 to beaches with clean water that meets strict quality standards and is safe to swim in.

The most popular, clean and well-maintained beach – Myrtos. It is comfortable due to the protection of rocks from the wind. The waters are mostly calm, striking in the play of colors: cornflower blue, ultramarine, turquoise, blue - the color changes depending on the angle of incidence of the sun's rays. One of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach is not with sand, but with large white pebbles; there are smaller pebbles near the water. The beach is permeable to the winds, the sea is rough.

On Kefalonia Beach, Xi is striking in the color of the sand - rich red, but sometimes it can seem red. The proposed relaxation can be supplemented with wellness treatments using therapeutic mud (balneotherapy).

For those who prefer silence and unity with nature, the coast of Antisamos is suitable. Antisami is the most beautiful of the white pebble beaches. Almost from the first steps of entering the water, a great depth is noted. This is not comfortable for families with children, but it is a haven for those who like to swim.

Lassi Beach– clean water, light sand. The entire coast is covered with Cephalonian fir trees. This is especially convenient for families with children, since the water near the shore is shallow.

Legendary Beach Skala– the standard of neatness and comfort.

Petani Beach– a beach with white sands. Cleanest water and surroundings.

Wedding in Greece

Disaster in Crete

Excursion to the Chalkidiki Peninsula

The peninsula of Halkidiki has long established itself as a tourist attraction in Northern Greece. Don't be confused by the region: "Northern" in this sense only reflects its position relative to the rest of Greece. The climate here is most Mediterranean, and the swimming season begins in May and ends at the end of September. They are used to vacationers from the countries of the former USSR here, and Russian speech is heard everywhere. With all this, the good attitude of the Greeks themselves towards “Russo Tourist” has already become an important feature that attracts here even clearly expressed patriots of the Russian Federation who do not like to leave the borders of Mother Russia.

Wine tourism in Greece

Greece offers tourists from all over the world a lot of interesting things for a good holiday, all kinds of entertainment and activities for people of all ages. This country has many wonderful restaurants and bars, not only within the resorts, but in all major cities of the country.

Greek saffron – the gold of the Greek land

Saffron is the most expensive herbal spice in the world, which is obtained from the pollen and stigmas of the plant of the same name. According to botanists, it is not found in the wild in nature, because it has been cultivated since the beginning of the cultural history of mankind. The homeland of the plant is Asia Minor, Asia Minor, and India. Sometimes marigold pollen is passed off as a spice called saffron, which also has flavoring and coloring properties, but is much less valued.

If you have long dreamed of an unforgettable vacation, it’s time to go to Kefalonia: there are so many attractions on this small island that it will be enough for several trips.

Kefalonia is a beautiful island in the Ionian Sea, with a rich history and beautiful beaches. Tourists come here in search of an unusual holiday, acquaintance with ancient culture and vivid impressions. There are beautiful quiet bays and centers of beach recreation and entertainment, preserved ancient buildings and mysterious caves, beautiful nature and modern service.

The area of ​​Kefalonia is more than 780 square kilometers. It is located between Lefkada and Zakynthos, in the very center of the Ionian Sea. Therefore, Kefalonia's weather is warm and humid all year round. In summer, the average air temperature is +32°, and the water warms up to +26°. In January, the thermometer rarely drops below +14°, while sea water warms up to +16°.

In Kefalonia (Greece), the weather is favorable for the tourist season to last throughout the year. You can relax on the beach from April to October inclusive. The rest of the time, not everyone will risk taking a dip in the cool water. But this time you can visit a variety of excursions in Kefalonia.

Village of Assos

How to get to Kefalonia

You can get to the island by air or water. There is one airport here that accepts domestic flights within Greece - regular and charter from Europe.

How to get from Athens to Kefalonia? By plane only: flights operate all year round. During the summer, Kefalonia Airport receives flights from Corfu and Zakynthos.

You can get here by ferry almost all year round from the cities of Sami, Killini, Argostoli, Poros. The Kefalonia – Zakynthos ferry runs only in summer.

Inside, the main transport is buses. They connect almost all populated areas. Buses run every day except Sunday - keep this in mind when planning your travel route around Kefalonia. The fare ranges from 1 to 5 EUR, depending on the length of the route.

Petani Beach

Another type of local transport is a taxi: Kefalonia offers quite affordable prices and the opportunity to book a transfer from the airport on a budget.

Car rental in Kefalonia is a common service; you can arrange it right at the airport. There are companies that rent a car and deliver it to the client within 15 km. It is convenient to travel around Kefalonia by car, and if desired, you can load it on board a ferry: often water transport provides such services for private transport and taxis. Driving around the island by car is convenient: you don’t need to adapt to the traffic schedule, you can break away at any time and go to see the next attraction. Or drive further away in search of a secluded beach.

It’s worth renting a car if you’re traveling to Kefalonia with children: the little one will be comfortable in a car with air conditioning, and you can go to the hotel or have lunch at any time.

In Kefalonia, the roads are suitable for traveling by bicycle and moped: almost the entire local population travels this way. Visitors, wanting to save money on renting a car in Kefalonia, often also choose two-wheeled transport.

Argostoli

Where to stay

How to get to the island of Kefalonia on your own? The easiest way to fly is from Athens. If you are vacationing in Greece, you can devote 1-2 days to visiting this island. If you are not initially planning a trip to Kefalonia, you should take care of overnight accommodation in advance.

The cost of living here depends on the area and the degree of distance from the coastline. At the same time, even the most budget hotels on the island of Kefalonia offer a high level of service and luxurious rooms.

The largest hotel complex is located in the town of Lassi, near beaches with golden sands. There are quiet hotels for families with children and a corresponding beach. Hotel Lassi is located 300 meters from the sea and has its own swimming pool. From here to the airport is only 5 kilometers.

Before booking a room, read reviews about hotels in Kefalonia. The low level of service here is nonsense. But if you are looking for a quiet option, away from noisy parties, finding such a hotel is quite possible. You can also rent a room in a villa or an apartment.

Hotel Maria Anna in Trapezaki is surrounded by a picturesque garden, located near the sea. Guests can use the grill. There is a restaurant and grocery store on site.

Listostrotos (Bobble Street) in Argostoli

What to see in Kefalonia Island?

There are many sights and interesting places here, which you can wander around from morning until night.

Kefalonia Island: Attractions to see:

Village of Assos

Miracle with snakes in Kefalonia

Miracles on the island of Kefalonia are associated with the mysterious icon of the Virgin Mary. Many years ago, she was found on a tree after a fire, safe and sound. Several times it was transferred to the church, but the icon mysteriously disappeared, after which it was found in the roots of a burnt tree. Later a church was built here. One day the temple was attacked by pirates. But mysteriously snakes appeared around the building. Since then, in Kefalonia, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (August 15) has been accompanied by the appearance of snakes in the temple in this church of Kefalonia. If they do not appear, this indicates impending troubles, most often an approaching earthquake.

Wild beach in the northern part of the island

Local beaches

Looking at the map of Kefalonia with beaches, you will see that they are located almost along the entire perimeter of the island. They are in every city, near every major beach resort. Usually the hotel is a stone's throw from the beach. But in some places it is prohibited to build any buildings at a distance of 5 km from the water line - it is better to get to such beaches by rented car or bicycle.

Xi Beach

Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia) has a UNESCO award as the cleanest and most beautiful. There is a very high level of security here, so among the vacationers there are many families with children. And in the evening, the coast is flooded with sunset light, which makes it incredibly beautiful.

Popular local beaches include Xi, Atisamos, Skalou.

Kefalonia's nudist beaches are usually located behind the cliffs. Some of them can only be reached by water - for this you will have to rent a boat.

Foki Beach

Enjoy your holiday on the island of Kefalonia: excursions to interesting places

A sightseeing tour of the island is the easiest way to see absolutely all the sights of Kefalonia and take photos of memorable places. The main routes begin with a visit to the caves, which are the pride of the island.

Other popular routes include:

• Excursion to the monastery of St. Gerasimos;
• Visit to the Robolla winery with tasting;
• Sea cruise around the coast of Onassis's Dream.

The average cost of excursions is from 50 to 300 EUR, depending on the duration and route.

The largest island of the group of seven Ionian islands is Kefalonia (Greece). It is located between the islands of Zakynthos and covers an area of ​​about 800 square meters. km. The highest point is Mount Big Soros (1628 m). The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. The population of Kefalonia is about 35 thousand. The length of the coastline stretches for 250 km (you can see this by looking at the island of Kefalonia on a map of Greece). The island is widely known for its excellent beaches, magnificent nature, ancient architecture, shrines and unique natural caves.

History of the island

The island has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. The first inhabitants who settled Cephalonia were the Lelegi tribes (15th century BC), they worshiped the king of the sea, Poseidon. During the Bronze Age, the ancient Greek peoples of the Tylevoi and Tafii lived here.

According to one version, the island of Kefalonia (Greece) received its name in honor of the mythological hero Kefal. Some historians associate the name of the island with the Cephalin family. Homer called the island Sami, but in his time it was still sparsely populated. Since the classical period, the island has been known by its current name.

In the Middle Ages, the island was part of the Byzantine Empire. Later it was captured by different peoples: Venetians, Turks and Normans. Since 1797, Kefalonia was under the protectorate of Venice, and later the island was occupied by the French. Under the influence of French revolutionaries, the local population overthrew the feudal system. Subsequently, Cephalonia became part of the so-called state of the 7 Ionian Islands. In 1864, all the Ionian Islands united with Greece.

Kefalonia, Greece Tours

Since 2013, the island of Kefalonia has become even more accessible to Russian residents thanks to the introduction of weekly charter flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. It should be noted that complex tours Kefalonia-Zakynthos are also in great demand. Thus, you can fly to one island and fly home from another. Accordingly, you can get twice as many impressions.

Getting to know the island

At first glance, the island is mountainous and rugged. Nevertheless, like all of Greece, Kefalonia (the photos are simply impressive) does not lose its charm. While moving along the steep serpentine, landscapes of fabulous beauty open up: the azure sea, harmoniously outlined rocks, as well as green small islands of seaside villages. The landscape picture of the island is complemented by olive and myrtle groves with fluttering leaves, vineyards, and distinctive and different coastal towns. Snow-white yachts and fishing boats moored off the coast add a special flavor to Kafalonia.

All the islands of Greece are stunning with their extraordinary beauty. Kefalonia, of course, was no exception. This region captivates travelers with its fresh air with the scent of pine trees and the crystal surface of the sea. In general, a holiday in this place is calm and measured.

Capital of Kefalonia

The capital of the island is the city of Argostoli. Just 10 km from this locality there is an international airport that serves charter flights and flights from Athens. The region is located in a zone of increased seismic activity; in 1953, a devastating earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the Richter scale was observed in Argostoli. As a result of the disaster, the city was seriously damaged. It had to literally be rebuilt from scratch. Now the capital is bustling with life, and at night numerous clubs, bars and discos light up their lights. The port of Argostoli has ferry connections with other cities in Greece.

The second port of the island is Sami. It is the main gateway for ferries coming from Italy, Astakos, Patras, Lefkada and other places.

Resort towns

The main resorts of Kefalonia are Luxouri, Skala, Lassi. The rock, in particular, is most favored by tourists from the UK. The city has about 30 hotels, 3 supermarkets, more than 10 bars and several dozen souvenir shops. Lassi and Luxouri are also famous for their vibrant nightlife and golden beaches.

The hottest weather in the region is observed in August - about 35 o C. There are beaches here for every taste - from secluded “wild” ones to very noisy ones with developed infrastructure.

Better beaches

• Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia). This beach is considered the hallmark of not only the island, but the whole of Greece. This is the most beautiful white pebble-sand beach in the country with great depth of sea. In addition, it is even included in the top 10 best beaches on the planet. Myrtos is well equipped, there are sun loungers with umbrellas, a team of lifeguards, and bars. It is located on the western coast of Kefalonia between the mountains of Kalos Oros and Agia Dinati. From the city of Assos it takes only 20 minutes to get there. However, buses are not allowed into the protected area. Despite its wide popularity and landscapes of incredible beauty, there are usually few tourists here. This is due to the inaccessibility of this place. Myrtos Beach (Kefalonia, Greece) has repeatedly been a springboard for filming. For example, some scenes from the film “Captain Corelli's Choice” were filmed here.
• Xi is a shallow beach with unique red dense sand. It is framed by limestone rocks with healing blue clay.
• Kaminia - sandy beach. It is located 34 km from the capital of Kafalonia. It is considered one of the longest beaches on the island.
• Skala Beach - located on the southern tip of the island in the town of the same name. It has an excellent layout, surrounded by picturesque hills and rocks.
• Antisamos is located near the port of Samos. It is considered a rather favorable place for sunbathing and swimming.

More than 20 beaches in the region have their own names, many of them have been awarded the Blue Flag. Overall, Kefalonia (Greece) is a great holiday destination from May to mid-October.

Island attractions

• The resort village of Agia Efimia is a favorite place for divers and yachting enthusiasts.
• Argostoli. Ethnographic and archaeological museum, as well as an ancient arched bridge.
• Luxouri. The ruins of ancient Pali and the Ipkovat Palace with a unique library.
• Mounts Roudi and Enos are natural attractions of the island of Kefalonia (Greece). These mountain ranges are covered with relict tree species that have a dark green color (the so-called black spruce).
• Assoc. Here you can visit a Venetian fortress dating back to the 16th century.
• Fiscado is a fishing village with ancient architecture. By the way, she was the only one not damaged by the 1953 earthquake.
• Drongarati Cave or House of the Dragon. One of its descents reaches 44 meters and ends in a cave hall with acoustic cancellation. Here you can admire the incredibly beautiful stalactites.
• Castro. The city was the capital of Kefalonia in the Middle Ages.

Shrines of Kefalonia

Having seen all of the above attractions on the island, you can continue excursions to Kefalonia’s shrines. There are two monasteries here - St. Andrew Myliapidias and St. Gerasimos. Both of these monasteries are female.

Saint Gerasimos, who led a hermit's life in caves, is the patron saint of Kefalonia. The ascetic was born in 1506 in the city of Trikala (Peloponnese). After receiving his education, he began to travel throughout Greece and managed to visit Constantinople. On Mount Athos he began his monastic life in the Kapsala cave. Later he went to Jerusalem, where he served in the army for 12 years.

Desiring peace and solitude, the saint travels to the island of Zakif. And in 1555 he moved to Kefalonia, here he lived for five years in the Lassi cave near Argostolion (at this time a temple was built over it). From 1560 he moved to the Omala region, where he restored the chapel and built a convent with a sisterhood. He called it “New Jerusalem”.

A cave with a narrow entrance has survived to this day, where the saint lived for about 19 years. Gerasim died in 1579. His relics are in a glass shrine in the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The monastery has three plane trees planted by Gerasim himself, 37 small wells and three springs. The saint is known for his ability to relieve obsession.

The monastery of St. Andrew Milapidias was founded in the Byzantine era. In 1264 it was transferred to the Latin Bishopric. A hundred years later it fell into decay and was revived only in 1579, when it was bought by three sisters - Leontia, Benedicta and Magdalene. They settle there, and soon the monastic community grows. In 1639, after a shipwreck, the Greek-Romanian princess Roxana ended up in the monastery. She made a huge property contribution to the monastery, but most importantly, the princess donated to the monastery the relics of St. Apostle Andrew the First-Called from Mount Athos. The monastery also houses a museum with rare ancient icons and relics.

Phenomenal phenomenon

A rather unique phenomenon occurs in the village of Markopoulo. On the day of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, an incredible number of people with small crosses on their heads crawl there. They rush to the church, climb straight into its dome, and then crawl to the icon of the Virgin Mary. Amazingly, they don’t leave it until the very end of the service. The local population reveres snakes as saints. Many consider this phenomenon a good omen.

Kefalonia Island, Greece. Hotels

Finally

Millions of tourists from all over the world visit the Greek islands every year. Kefalonia attracts the eyes of travelers not only with its stunning nature, but also with the opportunity to engage in various sports. Here you can play tennis, basketball, go fishing or ride horses. Particularly adventurous guests can try their luck in the casino. Lovers will also love the resort, because the local beaches are considered the best throughout the Mediterranean.

Kefalonia is an island where miracles happen, or so the locals say. Quickly look at where Kefalonia is located on the map of Greece and pack your bags.

Kefalonia- the largest of all the Greek islands of the Ionian Sea. To the north of it is about. Lefkada, to the east is the famous Ithaca, the birthplace of Homer’s Odysseus, and to the south is about. Zakynthos The highest points of Kefalonia are Mount Enos and Rudi (1627 m and 1130 m respectively), its total area is 671 km².

The first mentions of the local inhabitants, the Cephalonians, are found in Homer’s poem “The Illiad”. In that distant era, their lands were part of the state of Odysseus. In subsequent periods of history, many conquerors visited the island. Its lands were dominated by the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Turks, Venetians, French and English. And only in 1864 it finally became part of Greece.

The natural beauty of Kefalonia amazes you at first sight. 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 are harmoniously combined here.

If you wish, you can travel around Kefalonia all year round, visiting a new place every day - 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, which local residents love to decorate balconies, courtyards and building facades with.

Unfortunately, the powerful earthquake of 1953 also left its mark on the island. Many houses were destroyed, including magnificent buildings from the Venetian period. However, there is a lot to see in Kefalonia: modern architecture complements the appearance of cities and towns, and lush gardens still delight the eyes of visitors.

Video: dreamways.ru

Sights of Kefalonia

Monastery St. Andrew's 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 - part of the right foot of the Apostle Andrew from the monastery. There is also a museum here, where Byzantine icons and church vestments are displayed.

An interesting story is connected with Church of Panagia Languvarda, which is located in the village of Markopoulo. According to legend, during the period of Byzantine rule, 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 Dormition of the Virgin Mary (August 15), many snakes with crosses appear in the village. The parishioners catch them and bring them to the icon of the “Virgin Mother of God.” People believe that if you apply a snake to a sore spot or even just hold it in your hands, you can be healed of ailments. Naturally, on this day hundreds of pilgrims come to Markopoulo to see the miracle with their own eyes.

While vacationing in Kefalonia, you can visit other equally wonderful places:

• Unique underground Melissani cave lake, formed as a result of an earthquake
• Drogariti Cave at a depth of 44 meters, which is about 150 million years old
• The highest mountain reserve of the Ionian Islands Enos(1628 meters).
• Asos Fortress, built at the beginning of the 17th century
• Mycenaean period domed tomb of Zanatu, whose burials scientists date back to 1400-1000 BC.
• Ruins of a Roman villa, on the walls of which magnificent mosaics have been preserved

Beaches of Kefalonia

Among the beaches of Kefalonia, it is difficult to give preference to just 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 visitors to the island try to visit first.

Ammes. A small, calm beach covered with golden, fine-grained sand, located in the village of Svoronata. A 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 it’s not surprising: here the green slopes of the mountains approach the crystal clear water, forming amazing idyllic landscapes.

Makris Gialos. This beach is known for the best infrastructure on the island: there are cafes, snack bars and restaurants, you can rent umbrellas, sun loungers and all the necessary equipment for relaxing on the water. Every year Makri Gialos is awarded the Blue Flag, an international sign of quality.

Platys Gialos. This beach is part of the same coastline as Makris Gialos and is also well maintained and awarded the Blue Flag. But it is Platis Gialos that tourists call the Greek Riviera. Pines, flowers and other greenery form the special charm and charm of this stretch of coast.

Myrtos. A large number of tourists come to the island. Kefalonia is precisely to see the world famous Myrtos beach. It looks especially impressive from the heights of the surrounding rocks - a strip of snow-white sand with an incoming azure wave beckons you to go down the mountain serpentine and relax on the seashore.

Xi. Xi Beach, located near the town of Lixouri, is interesting for its unusual yellow-red sand. It is believed that the local clay has healing properties, so many vacationers smear themselves with it and thus take sunbathing. The descent into the water on Xi is gentle and shallow, so the beach is preferred by tourists with children. There are places to eat and relax - there are many eateries, hotels and apartments in the beach area. Xi is also awarded the Blue Flag for Quality.

Rock. The sandy beach of Skala 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.

Kefalonia Island Map

Photo: Mouzenidis Travel

The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a wonderful holiday destination that will appeal to lovers of bright 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. On its territory there is the Enos mountain range, the highest point is 1628 m. The largest city is 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 World War II, it was heavily damaged by the attacks 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 infrastructure and tourism in Kelafonia to begin to develop only in the late 80s of the 20th century.

There is an airport on the island, which is located not far from the capital of Kefalonia. Most often, planes land here from Athens, but the city also receives charter flights from many European countries. Travelers can get to the neighboring islands of Greece using ferries. In addition, this vehicle delivers residents to the Peloponnese coast, to the ports of Patras and Kylini.

Kefalonia is popular for its modernized areas, such as nightclubs, cafes and cinemas, but there are also quiet coastlines and beautiful mountains where the iron hand of progress has not yet reached. Holidays in Kefalonia will be an unforgettable trip for every tourist.

The best beaches in Kefalonia

The most popular attraction of the island is its coastline. Among the most beautiful, picturesque and clean beaches it is worth noting:

Assos Beach

Located in a small village of the same name, 40 km from the capital of the island. The Ionian Sea here is very calm, the water is clear and clean, blue. The beach is pebbly and quite long. There are no sun loungers or umbrellas here, but you can rent a boat and go on an exciting journey through bays that are inaccessible by other means of transport. There are restaurants and cafes in the immediate vicinity, and the village has an ancient castle with a panoramic view of the sea. Can be reached by car, a great place to relax with children.

Myrtos Beach

Kefalonia is the owner of one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Greece - Myrtos. This is a real “pearl” of the island, which is the goal of every tourist to visit. The water here is azure in color, calm and clean, which is confirmed by the UNESCO Blue Flag, the sand is white, dotted with pebbles.

The distance from Argostoli (30 km) can be covered by car. The beach has a crescent shape, is surrounded by rocks, and is located at the foot of two mountains. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, and there are cafes and restaurants on the territory of Myrtos. The sea is deep.

Petani Beach

The length of the coastal strip is almost a kilometer; there are high cliffs on both sides. The water here is clear, even at a depth of several meters you can see what is happening at the bottom. The waves are quite strong; children cannot be left unattended here, as there is no shallow water.

Argostoli can be reached by car, the distance is only 20 km. Petani Beach is fully equipped - there are sun loungers, a bathroom, an outdoor shower and umbrellas on its territory. There is a cafe and two large taverns. There is a small parking lot nearby.

The sandy part of the island, located in the west. The capital of Kefalonia is 34 km away. This is one of the cleanest and longest beaches in Greece. The water is warm and clear, calm during daylight hours. Perfect for family holidays, the depth near the shore is less than a meter. You can get there by your own or public transport (to the village of Skala, then 10 minutes on foot), there is parking. On the beach there is a snack bar and cafe with soft drinks and fast food.

Antisamos

The shore and bottom are covered with white pebbles, the water is crystal clear, azure and warm. The beach stretches for 700 meters and is located 27 km from the capital of the island. It is stunningly beautiful from nature - there are hills with green vegetation all around, and the sea changes its color from blue to turquoise. Antisamos was awarded the UNESCO Blue Flag.

The beach can be reached by personal transport (parking is available) from the port of Sami. Suitable for families with children, there are all amenities, including a cafe, sun loungers, umbrellas and an outdoor shower.

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Sights and entertainment: what to do during your holiday

The best time to visit the island is summer. From April to October, life here is in full swing. It is at this time that you can enjoy the various entertainment that is offered on this Greek island.

Kefalonia is rich in both natural and man-made beauties. Here you can see picturesque landscapes and dive into mysterious caves, or have a blast at a club and spend time in an expensive restaurant. All travelers should pay attention to the attractions that are listed in every Kefalonia guidebook.

Drogarati Cave

Located 120 m above sea level, the limestone cave has been a victim of photo hunters and curious tourists for more than 20 years. Up to 800 people can be accommodated here at the same time, the total length of the territory accessible for passage is 95 meters. Thanks to its natural acoustics and large area, it often hosts concerts, mainly operatic and classical.

The entrance to the cave is safe and open all year round from morning to evening. There is high humidity inside, temperature – +18°C. There is parking and a souvenir shop nearby.

If you like historical sites, be sure to visit this place. The memorial is dedicated to the events of 1943 called the “Cefalonia Tragedy,” during which 10,000 Italian soldiers were killed when they refused to defect to Germany. This is a very important page in life for the inhabitants of the island, and for tourists it is an interesting place that allows you to get to know the culture of Kefalonia better.

Monastery of St. Gerasim

Local residents consider Saint Gerasimos the patron saint of the island and everyone who resides on it. That is why the nunnery named after him is the holiest and most revered place on the island of Kefalonia. It is located 8 km from the capital of the island, near Mount Ainos. The church is very beautiful both inside and outside.

Boat Tours

Since the coast is the main attraction of Kefalonia, the island’s residents have compiled over two dozen routes for tourists. Today, such excursions are the most popular among visitors to Kefalonia, as they allow you to see places that cannot be reached by other means of transport.

One of the most famous and visited boat tours is Captain Vangeli's Special Cruises. This is a day trip (about 7-8 hours) to Ithaca, Fiskardo or Zaknitos. The large, modern ship accommodates 40 tourists and a team of professionals who serve visitors and conduct excursions. There are several stops throughout the trip - be sure to visit picturesque caves, a monument to Odysseus, beaches, souvenir shops and cafes. In addition, the ship has a huge advantage - a glass bottom, which allows you to admire the view of underwater nature. This trip will appeal to both adults and children.

The price of such a full-day excursion averages 50-65 euros per person. The cost depends on the route and the company that provides the service.

For lovers of beautiful but extreme entertainment, Kefalonia is a paradise in Greece. Thousands of species of animals live in the waters of the island, many of which are rare or even listed in the Red Book.

To go diving in Kefalonia, it is best to contact special centers. They will offer suitable options for both beginners and professional athletes. Many clubs have modern dive boats that allow you to travel even through the mysterious caves of Kefalonia.

Weather and climate

On the island of Kefalonia, as throughout Greece, there are very hot summers, wet winters, warm spring and autumn. You can plan a vacation as early as May, at which time the air temperature rises above 21°C. The water in the sea warms up to +19°C - not fresh milk, but you can swim.

Holidays will be comfortable in the fall as well. Until mid-October, the island has warm seas (+23°C). True, the average number of rainy days in October is 8.

The quietest and most practical time to relax on the beach is May, June and September. The weather is already suitable, but there is no influx of tourists as in July and August. Prices during this period are slightly lower than in high season.

July-August are traditionally the hottest months. The average temperature during the day is +29-30°C, can reach +35°C, at night +24-25°C. You don’t have to leave the sea for hours; the water temperature of +26-27°C allows you to do this.

In winter, life on this Greek island comes to a standstill, it becomes quiet and cozy. The temperature rarely drops below 7⁰, there are very warm days when January and February are absolutely no different from April.

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What to try from food, prices

The famous coastline played a big role even in this area of ​​life. The main delicacies on the island are seafood, the preparation of which varies depending on the region and time of year. During your holiday in Kefalonia you must try the following dishes:

The choice of food establishments on the island is large. The cost of meals in restaurants varies significantly: you can have lunch for two for 10 €, or dinner 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 communicates personally with visitors.

Fish and seafood are excellently prepared here, and they are worth ordering. The average bill is 20-25 € for two.

Among the rest, we can highlight the following establishments:

• Katelios Grill House in Kato Katelios;
• Erasmia to Petani - located on Penati beach;
• Kastro Cafe - near the castle of St. George, they serve excellent desserts for 4-5 €.

The island of Kefalonia (Greece) is a great place to relax. Here you will not only escape from everyday problems, bask in the bright sun and enjoy the turquoise waters, but also have fun at concerts, restaurants and ferries. Have a nice trip!

Infrastructure facilities mentioned in the article are marked on the map below.

Video from the island of Kefalonia.

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