The island of Kefalonia
Mostly famous for the exotic beaches, including Myrtos, Antisamos, Lourdas and Skala, the island was chosen for filming the Hollywood movie Captain Corelli's Mandolin.
Apart from swimming, Kefalonia Greece also has many places to see, from picturesque villages to Medieval castles and beautiful monasteries. Fiscardo is the most cosmopolitan place with a port that receives many yachts every summer. Other nice villages to visit during your Kefalonia holidays are Argostoli, Sami and Assos.
Katelios & Skala villages
Katelios is one of the most picturesque bays in south Kefalonia between the villages of Skala and Lourdas and offers a traditional Greek holiday, with a small harbour and beach, along with several restaurants looking out to sea.
Katelios is 32km east of Argostoli town and is a small fishing village which has gradually grown around a wide bay on the southeast coast of the island. "Agia Barbara" - the main beach - offers fantastic views of the Ionian Sea and even up to the island of Zakynthos and "Killini" town on the mainland.
Katelios is one of the "not so known" destinations on the island and as such, has retained its charm and old style of architecture.
Also the visitors of Katelios are in close distance (7 km apprx) to one the most noted resorts of Kefalonia - Skala village.
Skala is beautiful sea side village that is situated on the southern-east part of Kefalonia. During the last couple of decades especially, due to its amazing position by the sea and its marvelous long sandy beach, Skala turned into one of the major vacation hotspots of the island.
Skala has a really wonderful 3 kilometers long beach with both sand & small white pebbles along with amazing crystal blue waters. Some parts of the beach are equipped with sunbeds & umbrellas and some others are more secluded giving a little more privacy & quiete especially during the high season.
Argostoli city
Argostoli city
The capital of Kefalonia since 1757 stands on the far end of the natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. The town was rebuilt after the catastrophic earthquake of 1953. It is a picturesque town, built on hills surrounding the lagoon of Koutavos and the natural-formed harbour.
This modern and cosmopolitan town is quite busy especially during the summer season offering a vast variety of interesting features, activities and services. All around town and at its outskirts are situated a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cover all tastes and budgets.
▷ Key Points
• Vallianos Square, the town’s central square is a large and pleasant square surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and bars.
• The pedestrian Street of ‘’Lithostroto’’ (Cobbled Street) is one the main commercial streets of the capital filled with all kinds of shops and little cafes and the beautiful church of Saint Spyridon.
• The interesting clock tower of Campana Square.
• Korgialenios Library, is one of the largest libraries in Greece. It began its operation in 1925, and it has instituted pioneering initiatives for that time, including children’s section, significant events, showings, lectures, & conferences of national and international range. It has around 53,000 volumes, and is housed in the same building as the History & Folklore Museum of Argostoli.
• The Korgialenios folklore museum was founded and opened its doors in 1960’s. It proudly displays innumerable elements from the beginning of the 15th century until 1848, and among its missions is to keep alive the memory of how Kefalonia was before the earthquake of 1953.
• De Bosset Bridge that visually separates Argostoli bay and Koutavos lagoon, is the world’s largest & longest stone bridge on a sea water body with length around 700 meters and in existence since 1800’s , built by the then British Governor of the island and engineer Charles Philippe De Bosset.
• Also within the city borders, there are two beautiful gardens. Napier’s Garden and the Botanical Garden. Napier Garden is named after one of Governors of Kefalonia –Charles Napier - contains a wide variety of trees in the heart of Argostoli and offers a romantic moment for every visitor.
Katavothres
Fanari
▢ "Katavothres" is one of the rarest natural phenomenons in the world. Large quantities of seawater pass inland through the rocks & sand at this location near Saint Theodori lighthouse in the outskirts of Argostoli and just few minutes’ drive from the suburb Lassi, covering a distance of around 26km,and re-appearing in the village of Karavomilos near Sami and more specifically in the lake-cave of Melissani.
▢ "Fanari" as the local's refer to it, is the lighthouse of "Agioi Theodori" (Saint Theodores). It is one of the main attractions and trademarks of Argostoli city and is located on a man-made peninsula close to the city.
It is a unique circular structure, based on 20 white Doric architectural style columns and its tower is 8 m tall. It was built when Charles Napier was governor of Kefalonia, in 1928. Destroyed by the earthquake, it was rebuilt in 1964 according to its original architectural design, by Takis Pavlatos, a local architect. It offers not only a guiding light for the incoming and outgoing ships, but also a classical, romantic spot for locals and visitors.
"Saint George"s castle
Within a 600-metre perimeter of walls, residents they could spot pirate ships as far as 20 miles away on a clear day. Today, the castle is mostly ruined and only a few of the buildings survive and open for visits especially during the summer season.
"Aenos" (Ainos) Mountain
It is considered a National Park and with the exception of the dark green fir trees and pine trees it also provides shelter to rare and one-of-a-kind species of flora and fauna.
"Saint Gerasimos" monastery
Saint Gerasimos is believed by natives of Kefalonia to protect them and heal them of illness. After his death, and after the eras of Kefalonias occupation from foreign powers, his corpse is now guarded, protected and exposed to pilgrimage.
All the Kefalonians gather there on August 16th and October 20th each year to celebrate the Saint.
"Saint Andreas" monastery
The monastery also has an ecclesiastical Byzantine museum founded in 1988 which is located in the old church. The art treasures found there date between 1300-1900 AD.
"Melissani" cave lake
The ceiling of the cave collapsed after an earthquake and that gave the cave-lake its additional charm. Especially, when the waters illuminated by the sun’s rays, exquisite colours are reflected on the lake water and the stalagmites, algae & moss, create a unique and unforgettable picture.
"Drogarati" cave
The entrance of the cave, revealed by a strong earthquake occurred more than 300 years ago, presenting this miracle of nature that opened to the public in the 1960’s and has a depth of 60m. An astonishing marvel of more than 150 million years old, crafted gradually by nature. Many concerts have taken place in this grand natural hall over the years, as the cave offers spectacular acoustics.
"Myrtos" beach
Deep turquoise blue waters embraced by white sand leading to dazzling white pebbles and framed by tall, steep cliffs, will seduce your vision to the endless horizon.
Myrtos offers enchanting views from the very first sight.
Multi awarded and renown, it stands at the top of the list of the best Greek beaches and ranks among the best worldwide, for more than ten consecutive years.
"Assos" village
The fortress was built by the Venetians to protect the inhabitants against raids launched by pirates and conquerors in 1593. The ruins of the castle are open for visits in the summer period.
"Fiscardo" village
A beautiful traditional village resembling a painting, with unique charm & cosmopolitan style. Fiscardo was left virtually unscathed by the 1950's quake and still carries the traditional color, grace & beauty throughout the years.
The port promenade is brimming with fine restaurants, taverns, cafes & shops. From Ficardo there is also a regular connection with other parts of Greece, through the direct & quite frequent ferry itineraries to "Lefkada Island".
Lixouri city
Lixouri is the 2nd largest city of the island - a little more restful & relaxing than Argostoli, yet equally charming and picturesque. With the majority of the aspects & services as found in Argostoli - Lixouri is a great place for its permanent residents as well as its guests. It has a port servicing the regular yearly non-stop ferry itinerary between Argostoli & Lixouri , as well as the private boats and yachts .
Lixouri is accessible from Argostoli city, through sea with the ferry and through land with the distance from Argostoli being 30km.
"Xi" beach
With fine red sand and clear shallow waters, terminating in clay rocks is a unique landscape in Kefalonia. A sheltered and family friendly beach with activities for everybody, featuring vibrating beach bars, sunbeds and umbrellas and watersports facilities. Mix water and gray clay from the cliffs and create a wonderful, natural mud mask. An exotic landscape awaits for you when the sun sets, where hues of red and blue mix together in a never before seen combination.
Additionally, situated nearby, is the famous ‘’Kounopetra’’, a rock in the sea swinging rhythmically with palpitating movements is one of the most paradoxical phenomenones of the island.
Katelios & Skala Villages
Katelios is 32km east of Argostoli town and is a small fishing village which has gradually grown around a wide bay on the southeast coast of the island. "Agia Barbara" - the main beach - offers fantastic views of the Ionian Sea and even up to the island of Zakynthos and "Killini" town on the mainland.
Katelios is one of the "not so known" destinations on the island and as such, has retained its charm and old style of architecture.
Also the visitors of Katelios are in close distance (7 km apprx) to one the most noted resorts of Kefalonia - Skala village.
Skala is beautiful sea side village that is situated on the southern-east part of Kefalonia. During the last couple of decades especially, due to its amazing position by the sea and its marvelous long sandy beach, Skala turned into one of the major vacation hotspots of the island.
Skala has a really wonderful 3 kilometers long beach with both sand & small white pebbles along with amazing crystal blue waters. Some parts of the beach are equipped with sunbeds & umbrellas and some others are more secluded giving a little more privacy & quiete especially during the high season.
Argostoli city
This modern and cosmopolitan town is quite busy especially during the summer season offering a vast variety of interesting features, activities and services. All around town and at its outskirts are situated a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cover all tastes and budgets.
? Key Points
• Vallianos Square, the town’s central square is a large and pleasant square surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and bars.
• The pedestrian Street of ‘’Lithostroto’’ (Cobbled Street) is one the main commercial streets of the capital filled with all kinds of shops and little cafes and the beautiful church of Saint Spyridon.
• The interesting clock tower of Campana Square.
• Korgialenios Library, is one of the largest libraries in Greece. It began its operation in 1925, and it has instituted pioneering initiatives for that time, including children’s section, significant events, showings, lectures, & conferences of national and international range. It has around 53,000 volumes, and is housed in the same building as the History & Folklore Museum of Argostoli.
• The Korgialenios folklore museum was founded and opened its doors in 1960’s. It proudly displays innumerable elements from the beginning of the 15th century until 1848, and among its missions is to keep alive the memory of how Kefalonia was before the earthquake of 1953.
• De Bosset Bridge that visually separates Argostoli bay and Koutavos lagoon, is the world’s largest & longest stone bridge on a sea water body with length around 700 meters and in existence since 1800’s , built by the then British Governor of the island and engineer Charles Philippe De Bosset.
• Also within the city borders, there are two beautiful gardens. Napier’s Garden and the Botanical Garden. Napier Garden is named after one of Governors of Kefalonia –Charles Napier - contains a wide variety of trees in the heart of Argostoli and offers a romantic moment for every visitor.
Fanari & Katavothres
▢ "Fanari" as the local's refer to it, is the lighthouse of "Agioi Theodori" (Saint Theodores). It is one of the main attractions and trademarks of Argostoli city and is located on a man-made peninsula close to the city.
It is a unique circular structure, based on 20 white Doric architectural style columns and its tower is 8 m tall. It was built when Charles Napier was governor of Kefalonia, in 1928. Destroyed by the earthquake, it was rebuilt in 1964 according to its original architectural design, by Takis Pavlatos, a local architect. It offers not only a guiding light for the incoming and outgoing ships, but also a classical, romantic spot for locals and visitors.
"Saint George"s castle
Within a 600-metre perimeter of walls, residents they could spot pirate ships as far as 20 miles away on a clear day. Today, the castle is mostly ruined and only a few of the buildings survive and open for visits especially during the summer season.
"Aenos" (Ainos) Mountain
It is considered a National Park and with the exception of the dark green fir trees and pine trees it also provides shelter to rare and one-of-a-kind species of flora and fauna.
"Saint Gerasimos" monastery
Saint Gerasimos is believed by natives of Kefalonia to protect them and heal them of illness. After his death, and after the eras of Kefalonias occupation from foreign powers, his corpse is now guarded, protected and exposed to pilgrimage.
All the Kefalonians gather there on August 16th and October 20th each year to celebrate the Saint.
"Saint Andreas" monastery
The monastery also has an ecclesiastical Byzantine museum founded in 1988 which is located in the old church. The art treasures found there date between 1300-1900 AD.
"Melissani" cave lake
The ceiling of the cave collapsed after an earthquake and that gave the cave-lake its additional charm. Especially, when the waters illuminated by the sun’s rays, exquisite colours are reflected on the lake water and the stalagmites, algae & moss, create a unique and unforgettable picture.
"Drogarati" cave
The entrance of the cave, revealed by a strong earthquake occurred more than 300 years ago, presenting this miracle of nature that opened to the public in the 1960’s and has a depth of 60m. An astonishing marvel of more than 150 million years old, crafted gradually by nature. Many concerts have taken place in this grand natural hall over the years, as the cave offers spectacular acoustics.
"Myrtos" beach
Deep turquoise blue waters embraced by white sand leading to dazzling white pebbles and framed by tall, steep cliffs, will seduce your vision to the endless horizon.
Myrtos offers enchanting views from the very first sight.
Multi awarded and renown, it stands at the top of the list of the best Greek beaches and ranks among the best worldwide, for more than ten consecutive years.
"Assos" village
The fortress was built by the Venetians to protect the inhabitants against raids launched by pirates and conquerors in 1593. The ruins of the castle are open for visits in the summer period.
"Fiscardo" village
A beautiful traditional village resembling a painting, with unique charm & cosmopolitan style. Fiscardo was left virtually unscathed by the 1950's quake and still carries the traditional color, grace & beauty throughout the years.
The port promenade is brimming with fine restaurants, taverns, cafes & shops. From Ficardo there is also a regular connection with other parts of Greece, through the direct & quite frequent ferry itineraries to "Lefkada Island".
Lixouri city
Lixouri is the 2nd largest city of the island - a little more restful & relaxing than Argostoli, yet equally charming and picturesque. With the majority of the aspects & services as found in Argostoli - Lixouri is a great place for its permanent residents as well as its guests. It has a port servicing the regular yearly non-stop ferry itinerary between Argostoli & Lixouri , as well as the private boats and yachts .
Lixouri is accessible from Argostoli city, through sea with the ferry and through land with the distance from Argostoli being 30km.
"Xi" beach
With fine red sand and clear shallow waters, terminating in clay rocks is a unique landscape in Kefalonia. A sheltered and family friendly beach with activities for everybody, featuring vibrating beach bars, sunbeds and umbrellas and watersports facilities. Mix water and gray clay from the cliffs and create a wonderful, natural mud mask. An exotic landscape awaits for you when the sun sets, where hues of red and blue mix together in a never before seen combination.
Additionally, situated nearby, is the famous ‘’Kounopetra’’, a rock in the sea swinging rhythmically with palpitating movements is one of the most paradoxical phenomenones of the island.
