Kefalonia: Greece's best-kept island paradise revealed
The island of Kefalonia captivates visitors with its beauty, rich history, and traditions. It is famously known for its stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and impressive cliffs. Often referred to as "the greatest Greek secret," Kefalonia is a destination worth exploring.
The island enchants with its colors: the white of the cliffs, the emerald hue of the sea, and the green and gray of its mountainous landscape. Nicolas Cage, so taken with these vistas, purchased a home on Kefalonia, which has been compared to the paradisiacal Maldives. Notably, the island has managed to avoid the excessive commercialization seen on other Greek islands.
Kefalonia - the Greek jewel
Kefalonia is the largest island in the Ionian Islands archipelago, followed by Corfu and Zakynthos. Despite its size, it remains one of the lesser-known islands and is therefore not overrun by tourists.
Mass tourism develops here at a significantly slower pace. For many years, local residents, wary of harming the island’s stunning landscapes, were reluctant to invite foreigners or build resorts, helping to preserve the island’s natural beauty.
The island has long resisted commercialization. Visitors come not only for physical relaxation but also for mental rejuvenation. Kefalonia is an excellent choice for a peaceful vacation, including all-inclusive stays at superb hotels or family vacations in family-friendly accommodations. However, large hotels or water parks are scarce; there is only one hotel with a sizable water park set in an olive grove.
Romantic beaches
Kefalonia boasts beautiful and unspoiled beaches. One of the most famed is Myrtos Beach, known for its white sand and turquoise waters, encircled by steep cliffs. Parking is available for both scooters and cars. Before descending to the beach, visitors can stop at local taverns and a few shops. Be sure to pause at the viewpoints for breathtaking photos from above.
In the summer, Myrtos Beach can become more crowded (though not to the extent of popular Cretan or Rhodian beaches). For a quieter experience, consider Petani Beach, which resembles Myrtos but is less frequented and equally stunning. It's also a prime spot for some of the island's most beautiful sunsets.
Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts should visit Antisamos Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and incredible underwater rock formations. Meanwhile, Xi Beach with its red sand and mineral-rich mud offers rejuvenating and therapeutic properties, making it perfect for those seeking beauty treatments. The beach is also ideal for families with children due to its gentle, shallow waters.
Mysterious caves and lakes
Beyond its beaches, Kefalonia offers other natural attractions. One of its most renowned is Melissani Lake and Cave. This fantastic spot came into the spotlight after the cave’s roof collapsed in the 1950s following an earthquake, exposing the azure-celadon lake. Located about a mile from the village of Sami, the cave is encircled by trees and forests. Inside, a large breach in the rock allows sunlight to create mesmerizing shades on the water’s surface. In Greek mythology, this is known as the "Cave of the Nymphs." According to local lore, a nymph named Melissani tragically ended her life here after a local god spurned her love.
An intriguing aspect is that the lake’s waters are a mix of fresh and seawater, flowing through tunnels from the capital, Argostoli, over 12 miles away, resulting in diverse water colors.
You can explore the Melissani Cave by rowboat, with tours lasting up to 15 minutes. The best time to visit is midday when the sun is highest, casting brilliant reflections in shades of blue, emerald, and turquoise on the water.
Another fascinating cave is Drogarati, featuring a large chamber filled with stalactites and stalagmites. It maintains 90 percent humidity and a consistent depth of about 200 feet. The cave is renowned for its acoustics with a constant temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit. Concerts for hundreds of spectators are sometimes held here, and even Luciano Pavarotti has performed within its walls.
The cave formed around 100 million years ago, discovered approximately 300 years ago when an earthquake exposed its entrance. Opened to tourists in 1963, the cave’s uniform stalactites inspire awe, with some stories suggesting locals once cut them to impress visitors.
Picture-perfect towns
Kefalonia is also home to charming towns with panoramas resembling colorful paintings. The most famous is Assos, situated about 16 miles from the capital and encircled by green hills and a beautiful bay. With around 100 permanent residents, Assos stands out with its pastel-colored houses and stunning turquoise waters. Life here follows a relaxed ‘siga-siga’ rhythm, with no one in a hurry. Visitors will find two pebbled beaches, as well as several cafes and taverns.
One of the island’s most picturesque routes leads to Assos. This road winds through mountain slopes, offering views of the sea, beaches, and nearby villages nestled in the valleys. While in Assos, don’t miss the castle atop the hill. This fortress is one of the two largest on the island and ranks among the largest in Greece.
