Explore holidays in Kefalonia
Densely forested hills dotted with traditional hamlets and a coastline of small, quiet coves combine to make Kefalonia an unspoilt Greek holiday delight. Its northeastern tip shelters an easily overlooked gem in Fiskardo, whose 18th-century houses stand proud with their flower-festooned balconies and carved doors. South Kefalonia tells a different story, quieter and more traditional, with tranquil villages and beautiful beaches, as well as Skala and Argostoli with its harbour bars and restaurants.
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A selection of our holidays in Kefalonia
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Our guide to Kefalonia
In this section...
Introduction to Kefalonia
A backdrop worthy of Hollywood
As captivating as the Ionian Islands are, none draws visitors with the same magnetism as Kefalonia. The largest of Greece’s westerly archipelago, this magical place is also considered the jewel of ‘the seven islands’. And – to anyone who’s seen the film, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin – it’s a fitting location for one of the most endearing love stories ever told.
Kefalonia proved irreplaceable when the movie based on Louis de Bernières’ acclaimed novel was shot in the 1990s. Such rugged natural elegance, it seems, simply couldn’t be recreated elsewhere.
A present built from the past
If by chance Bernières’ tale has passed you by, it’s set during the German and Italian occupation of World War II. But, true to the rich, vibrant colour of Grecian history, these weren’t the first invaders to want to make this island, so blessed with dramatic charm, their home.
Roman villas, a Venetian fortress and a British-built bridge all serve to recall diverse and distant pasts – their architectural styles a testament to the island’s multicultural influences. For those whose interests lie even earlier in time, archaeological finds on Kefalonia date back to a staggering 200,000 BC.
The tranquil north
While its people have left an impression on Kefalonia through the millennia, nature has truly blessed her. The Ionians’ highest mountain, lush forests of fir trees cloaking the rugged landscape and idyllic coastal bays all combine to satisfy the most romantic idyll of island life.
The quietest of such bays can be found in the north of the island, where tranquility and tradition unite to evoke a feeling of having discovered truly authentic ‘Greekness’.
Here, the quaint and somewhat exclusive harbour town of Fiskardo offers a touch of unspoilt luxury. A class act, set considerately apart from any hint of hustle or bustle.
The vibrant south
A foil to the serenity of northern Kefalonia, the sandier beaches of the south draw a slightly larger crowd of visitors, who enjoy activity-filled days and bring a welcome energy to the evenings.
Here, like everywhere else on the island, the ‘great earthquake’ of 1953 brought the towns and villages to their knees. The capital, Argostoli, was no exception and today’s architecture presents a more modern town than the ancient, rustic one so easily imagined.
However, the ‘new’ Argostoli is no less charming for its reinvention and a stroll around the town’s quaint lanes is a fascinating and memorable way to while away an afternoon.
The best beaches in Greece
A crescent of pure white sand hemming dramatic, pine-topped cliffs lends Myrtos beach its reputation for top-flight sun worshipping – so typical of southern Kefalonian shores. To walk over the hillside towards the water here is to edge ever closer to one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
Whilst being a pebblier experience, the beaches further north on the island offer clear turquoise waters, making them ideal for snorkelling and diving. A secluded and sheltered bay can always be found for a spot of well-earned relaxation. And, to add a little excitement to the afternoon, you might even be joined by a loggerhead turtle.
At a glance
Map and other regions
Food & drink
A taste of Kefalonia
As is so happily the case throughout Greece, succulent meat can be found on many a household’s table – and many a taverna’s menu. But to dine in Kefalonia without indulging in some of her locally born and bred dishes is to overlook a gastronomic treat you’ll be glad you tried.
Pies are a speciality here – often filled with cheese or mutton, rice and herbs. And, as you’d expect from a place surrounded on all sides by Mediterranean waters, octopus and fish are popular choices.
Of course, salads are offered wherever you eat – the classic Greek combination of cucumber, tomotoes, onions, feta, olives and oregano elevated somehow to a different level when enjoyed in its country of origin.
None of this, though, should rightly be touched until an appetising selection of divine mezedes dips has first been greedily scooped.
Kefalonian tipples
In strict obedience to common perception, ouzo can be found everywhere. A little less obvious as an island specialty, the Kefalonian dry white wine grown from the Robola grape is a refreshing drop, while the sweet honey notes of muscat provide a fitting end to any meal.
Eating locally
For a perfect view served on the side, the harbour waterfront at Fiskardo truly can’t be beaten. Here, numerous fish tavernas nestle up against the water’s edge which, beyond the bay, stretches to neighbouring Ithaca.
Eateries in and around Fiskardo’s outlying villages, however, offer a convincing counter, tempting potential diners away from the harbour with their traditional Greek music. In the village of Maganos, a little dancing has even been known to erupt between the tables.
Lassi, Lourdas, Lixouri, and Skala are all southern Kefalonian towns where a good restaurant can be found without the need for hard searching. Of course, the island capital of Argostoli is where the richest abundance can be found – a champion of the island’s local fare around every corner.
But real gems can be found in the most remote and unlikely of locations too. Gastronomically, the bar is set high for Kefalonian food – in every corner of the island. And the restaurateurs here are proud ones, only too pleased to inform, suggest and entice.
Beaches
Foki
A picturesque inlet with natural shade and a taverna across the road for traditional local dishes. Greek for ‘seal’, Foki was once a nesting ground of the monk seal, which is now nudging extinction.
Getting there…
Roadside parking can be found on the right-hand side as you arrive from Fiskardo.
Footnotes…
There’s a very traditional shack for snacks and a traditional local restaurant opposite.
Antisamos
Surrounded by hills, the clear waters of this lovely white pebble beach, as seen in Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, are ideal for snorkelling. There are also beach bars, sunbeds and watersports on offer.
Getting there…
Enjoy a breathtaking drive down past Sami and you’ll find this beach easily accessible from the coastal road, about ten minutes away.
Footnotes…
The 18th-century monastery of Agrillion sits on a hill behind the beach and is worth a visit for its views alone.
Myrtos
This spectacular, crescent-shaped bay with its dazzling white pebbles and clear waters may look familiar – it’s one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
Getting there…
It’s 22km from Fiskardo and a spectacular 30-minute drive along the coast that ends with stunning views down to the beach itself.
Footnotes…
A beach bar, sunbeds and parasols are all here, but the waters are deep, making the beach unsuitable for young children.
Emblisi
Sheltered and child friendly with welcome shade from the surrounding olive and cypress trees. The beautiful turquoise waters somehow seem warmer here and a beach bar operates from June to September.
Getting there…
Turn right at the Emblisi turning just before Fiskardo and head to the end of the road. You can drive right up to the beach, where parking is available.
Footnotes…
There are no sunbeds at Emblisi so take an extra towel to lie on.
Mounda/Kaminia
A long, gently shelving and naturally beautiful sandy stretch, perfect for swimming and walking, with sunbeds, parasols and a couple of tavernas. The southern end, Mounda, is a naturist beach.
Getting there…
From Fiskardo, drive to Sami and over the mountain – it’s about a five-minute drive west of Skala. From Argostoli, head east towards Skala.
Footnotes…
Conservationists, the Katelios Group, have marked several loggerhead turtle nests on the beach and erected an illustrated turtle information board, which makes interesting reading.
Ai Helis
Another secluded bay, sloping gently into clear, shallow waters and surrounded by towering rocks and lush greenery. It’s great for families, with sunbeds, a beach bar and, usually, two volleyball courts.
Getting there…
A beautiful ten-minute drive from Avithos, through the traditional village of Svoronata, 12km from Argostoli.
Footnotes…
Parking is difficult. You may have to park a little way away and there are quite a few steps leading down to the beach.
Things to do
Take to the seas
Cutting through the azure water on a traditional wooden caique makes for an authentic and nostalgic morning. Jumping off to swim and perhaps snorkel around one of the local shipwrecks adds to the experience – which is often followed by a sumptuous lunch.
Visit an ancient cemetery
To walk one of the cemeteries of Kefalonia is to glimpse into ancient Greece – when grand places of worship stood protectively over passed souls. Today, the buildings are decaying ruins, yet some of the graves are still mysteriously laid with offerings and lit candles.
Charter a yacht
Set off with a skipper for a day’s adventure, exploring secluded bays and the neighbouring islands. You can also enjoy a lazy lunch at a quayside taverna before Kefalonia – recognisable from afar thanks to Mount Ainos – calls you back to her shores.
Discover Fiskardo
With charm, good looks and no small measure of sophistication, this beautiful little town springs into life in the summer months, catering in inimitable style to the many yacht crews who chart a course for the harbour’s fine tavernas and traditional food.
Dive right in
With crystal clear waters, shipwrecks and an abundance of sea life, every one of Kefalonia’s bays looks out towards a mesmerising dive. Qualified instructors can be easily tracked down and their unrivalled knowledge will lead you to the very best spots.
Hop aboard a glass-bottomed boat
Perfect for non-swimmers and relaxation-lovers alike, the island’s glass-bottom boats are the perfect way to marvel at aquatic goings on. The chance to see turtles and dolphins in their natural environment adds some extra excitement.
Take it all with a pinch of salt
Just 9km south-west of Fiskardo lies a tiny, rock-pool-strewn beach. The bay of Alaties (Greek for salt) may be small in stature and blissfully free from gaudy tourism, but it’s the viewpoint for the most majestic sunset on the island.
Explore a Venetian fort
Built in the 16th century, the fortress at Assos has an atmosphere all of its own. The views from the top are even more breathtaking than the walk to the fort itself and you can look out over farmland once tended by prisoners who grew grapes for making raisins.
Smash a plate or two
Yes, it does still happen – and you’re welcome to try it. For a lighthearted look back to an old tradition, head to the villages of Maganos and Vasilikades. Here, the spirit of Greece is alive and well, as the music plays and the china shatters.
Events
Easter is the biggest event on the Greek calendar, marked by traditional processions, masses and feasting. The date changes each year and is often later than in the UK.
What’s on in May
1 May
Labour Day is a public holiday, celebrated with picnics and the gathering of spring flowers. Many shops close, but restaurants remain open, and in Fiskardo there’s fun for all the family with Greek dancing around the harbour.
21 May
Unification Day is celebrated across the Ionian Islands with feasts held in many of the villages.
What’s on in July
11 Jul
St Efimia Feast day. A procession of the holy icon through Agia Efimia, with music and dancing to follow.
15 Jul
The Argostoli Theatrical Festival gives rise to many small plays and theatrical productions around the island’s capital.
What’s on in August
15 Aug
Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Apo Kimisis tis Panagia). The biggest religious holiday after Easter is celebrated with gusto in almost every town in Greece.
15-16 Aug
Komitata puts on a great party in the evenings which continues until the early hours.
Third weekend in Aug
The Robola Wine Festival is held in the village of Fragata and draws thousands of visitors with its free wine, local produce, dancing and theatre.
16 Aug
St Gerasimos Feast Day. A large bazaar is set up around the monastery in honour of the island’s patron saint.
23 Aug
The Feast of Panagia Agrilia in Sami starts with a ceremony at the monastery of Panagia Agrilion in honour of the Virgin Agrilia, which is followed by a barbecue and traditional music with dancing.
24 Aug
Assos Festival takes place in the harbour, with music, dance, a bazaar and a fireworks finale.
What’s on in September
8 Sep
The Virgin Mary’s birthday (Genisis tis Panangias) is celebrated throughout Greece with religious services and much feasting.
What’s on in October
1 Oct
St Spyridon’s Feast Day in Argostoli includes a procession to the church of the Virgin Mary of Thrapano.
19-20 Oct
The Feast of St Gerasimos, the island’s patron saint, is celebrated with a large market in the grounds of the eponymous monastery.
28 Oct
‘Oxi’ Day (‘No’ Day) celebrates the Greek refusal of Italian occupation during WWII with marches, parades and much flag flying.
The Road Less Travelled
We asked our local representatives in Kefalonia to share a few of their favourite ‘off the beaten track’ experiences. Here are some of their suggestions…
Eat fish fresh from the sea
The ‘fish shack’ perched above the little harbour in Kiriaki offers the chance to sample fish caught just hours earlier. It’s always excellently prepared and somehow made all the tastier for being enjoyed overlooking the very sea from which it was hooked. Take the right turn at Angonas onto the Pali Peninsula and follow the locals, who favour this tasty little secret.
Explore the secret film locations
The winding road to the quaint little village of Komitata on the north-east coast comes complete with breathtaking views, and Agia Sofia and Golgotha Bays – the two private coves at the journey’s end – are always well worth the drive. Pack a picnic and some water, and immerse yourself in the beauty of these spots – which were used as secret film locations for the shooting of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.
Hop over to Ithaca
Give in to your adventurous side and take a motor boat over to Polis Bay on Ithaca. The 20-minute chug from Fiskardo harbour is the perfect opportunity to look back for a fantastic view of Kefalonia, and is rewarded with a taste of Ithaca’s laid-back lifestyle as you enjoy a coffee in Stavros’ pretty town square.
Discover the church of Vari
In the village of Vari, not far from Vasilikades, sit two houses, quite separate from the rest. Opposite, a dilapidated stone building – marked with a small Greek flag by the roadside – invites further investigation. Uncovering the ancient church within, its altar and beautiful frescos still intact, is a moving experience. So easily missed, but so rewarding once discovered.
The sandy haunt of the rich and famous
Set on the southern tip of the Pali Peninsula, Vatsa is a little-known hideaway – a peaceful haven overlooking the Ionian Sea where soft white sand slopes gently into crystal clear waters. Inadvertently blowing the whistle on this hidden corner of the island, the now famous beachside fish taverna serves gorgeous food – and has been known to attract the rich and famous.
