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DISCOVER KEFALONIA

Where cosmopolitan aura meets unique natural beauty.

By Tzila Zylyftari

CLOSE your eyes and set your imagination free to get lost into the most vivid colours. The deep blue of the Ionian Sea; a salty breeze under the shade of the lush green landscapes; golden powdery-soft sands; an explosion of emotion. All combine to make your location seem something more than an island.

The biggest Ionian island, Kefalonia, is undeniably one of the most majestic destinations in Greece. It’s also considered to be a top choice for family, solo trips, or a holiday with friends, with its combination of authenticity and a cosmopolitan edge.

The magic begins as soon as you encounter Myrtos beach. This famous diamond is simply heavenly, as if you are admiring the most sparkling magazine cover. Look down at the breathtaking view and you’ll fall in love with the endless blue, dense pine trees and volcanic rocks leading to the pure white pebbles.

Here you’ll encounter both wild beauty and stunning sunsets, and there’s a mysterious natural allure. Visit the extraordinary Melissani Cave and the memory will stay with you forever. It’s a world-famous must-see sight for visitors to Kefalonia, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and the light streaming in from the round opening in its roof each day between noon and 2pm.

And this is at heart a traditional island. Immerse yourself in the authentically Greek culture as you visit little fishing villages; you’ll be greeted by the warmest smiles and the most hospitable locals.

The picturesque village of Assos offers one of the most colourful walks on the island and is a favourite diversion for many tourists – photos simply can’t do justice to the real thing. Built on a mountainside, it forms an amphitheater, filled with gaily coloured houses and scenic, narrow paths.

For the next chaper in your fairytale vacation, why not visit the stunning village of Fiskardo. Entering Kefalonia’s northernmost port, you feel you are stepping into an oil painting come to life.

And once here, simply surrender to the peace that surrounds you. On one side you’ll see the boats of Fiskardo’s little fishing fleet. On the other, you’ll see the forested hills cradling the village. In between lies the port itself, where you can relax and dine or take a drink at one of the traditional waterfront tavernas.

Of course, the place where Kefalonia’s heart beats fastest is the capital of the island, Argostoli. The never-sleeping city centre offers a wide variety of bars, coffee shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of stores for homemade gifts and treats.

The noteworthy architecture and cobbled alleyways reflect the classy and minimal elegance of the island.

Lying across the bay from Argostoli, you will find another lively little city, Lixouri. You reach it with a hop across the waters on a delightful boat ride.

The town is famous for its traditions and local events. Try to time your visit to take in the marvellous Varkarola festival, when boats bedecked with lit candles carry musicians and singers across the bay under a stunning canopy of fireworks.

If you really want to get to know what Kefalonia means, then you have to introduce yourself to the very special local gastronomic culture. The stars of the table are the fresh and tasty meat pies and the wild greens. The sweet-toothed among us will appreciate mandoles from the first bite – these are almonds, roasted then candied, and a Kefalonian speciality.

This island floating in the Ionian may be best known for its miles of lovely beaches, but there is much more. Craggy landscapes, verdant forests, traditional villages and ports – there’s a whole world to discover.

“You become part of the Greek culture by visiting the small fishing villages

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2023-05-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-05-31T07:00:00.0000000Z

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