Like many other of the country’s captivating islands, Kefalonia boasts its fair share of golden-sand beaches and pretty landscapes, but as soon as you land on this sun-kissed shore, you’ll see that there’s much more to discover. We’re talking mysterious caves, ancient old towns and challenging mountain trails.
Ready to see what Kefalonia has to offer? Here are the top 10 things to do…
Visit the famous Myrtos Beach
Want to swim in crystal-clear blue water and stroll along an endless white shore? Make a beeline for Myrtos Beach. It’s up on the north coast, around 30km from Argostoli, and is regarded as one of the best beaches on the island. You might just recognise it from a hit film – more on that later.
At one end, there’s a snack bar selling refreshments but at the other, it’s totally untouched by tourism which lets its natural beauty shine through. The crisp-white shore is backed by rolling green hills and rocky white cliffs that create the perfect setting for a day of sunbathing. Hire a sunlounger or simply lay down your towel and relax.
Boat trip to Melissani Cave
Looking for something a little bit different to do on your holiday to Kefalonia? This one’s for you. Join a boat trip to the magnificent Melissani Cave and its lake of freshwater and seawater. Within the cave, you’ll see a lake which surprisingly has trees and forests within it. There’s no roof, so when the sun shines through, the whole cave is lit up in a mesmerising turquoise colour. It really is a sight to behold, so don’t forget to snap some pictures!
Admire a 150 million-year-old structure
Sticking to the theme of caves, why not head south and inland for around 5km to uncover the ancient Drogarati Cave? This impressive underground cavern is nothing short of spectacular with stalactites and stalagmites that are 150 million years old!
The cave was only discovered around 300 years ago after an earthquake destroyed part of the cave and an entrance was revealed. Today, you can enter it down a number of steps and navigate your way through the limestone chambers. The acoustics inside are phenomenal and concerts are regularly held here to make the most of these!
Wander picture-perfect villages
If you’re looking for a taste of traditional Kefalonia, then the pretty villages of Fiskardo and Assos will be your best bet. Set around a quaint harbour on the island’s north coast, Fiskardo’s winding waterfront path attracts both tourists and locals alike with its tiny shops and enticing seafood restaurants.
Heading south around 20km, the sweet and secluded village of Assos is all about white pebbled beaches, colourful houses and its ancient Venetian castle ruins. There are only around 100 habitants in the village, so you can imagine how charming and peaceful it is.
Go wine tasting
Get a taste of Kefalonia by sipping a glass of the island’s most well-known local wine, Robola. The independent production of this wine only began here in 1983 when around 300 local growers founded Robola Cooperative.
Today, you can visit one of the many wineries, enjoy a tasting session or food pairing experience and purchase a bottle or two to bring home as souvenirs and remind you of the trip. There’s also an annual wine festival to celebrate this delicious tipple!
Explore the underwater world
If you love snorkelling and scuba diving, then the colourful seabed that surrounds the island will definitely impress. You might even catch a glimpse of the rare caretta caretta sea turtle that calls this place home. Or if you’re really lucky, you could spot a monachus monachus – Mediterranean monk seal!
Walk the ancient Cyclopean Walls
The ancient city of Krani is hidden within these crumbling walls. And the walk from Argostoli to the walls is one of the most fascinating, history-packed activities you can do while in Kefalonia. Krani dates all the way back to 3 BC when it was one of the four states on the island and Argostoli didn’t exist. The sheer size of the stone used to build the wall is most impressive!
Follow one of the many tranquil trail walks
Lace up your walking boots or trainers and get out on the many hiking paths that the island has to offer. From the staggering heights of Mount Ainos National Park to the picturesque views you can enjoy from the Lighthouse of Saint Theodori, there are heaps of sights to see wherever you walk.
The Cypress Trail near Fiskardo is a popular one as it takes in the island’s stunning landscapes and varied nature. Whatever your ability, you’re bound to find a route that suits you. Want to save your legs? You could choose to follow some of these trails on horseback instead! Horse riding and in Kefalonia is a great family activity and means you can relax and enjoy the ride as you take in the scenery.
Try the renowned meat pie
Pie fan? You’ve come to the right place! The local kreatopita dish is a rich, three-meat filled filo pastry pie that can include rabbit, beef, pork or lamb. Add in some spices, Greek cheese and crispy pastry, and you’ve got all the ingredients for one truly tasty dish!
If you’re more into sweet than savoury, why not sample the island’s traditional desserts? Mandoles are candied almonds wrapped in a sugary, crimson caramel layer, while pastokydono is a syrupy cake made of pureed quince and honey. Sounds good to us!
Visit a film setting
Hollywood hit Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed on these shores in the year 2000. The beautiful beaches of Antisamos and Myrtos and the village of Sami to be precise. Follow in the footsteps of the film stars and see how many famous scenes you can recreate.