Travel

Kefalonia in Greece

I don’t know what it is, but you know you’re in Kefalonia Greece from the aroma that assails you as soon as you step off the plane, it’s a wonderful deeply herbal smell that infuses the senses.

One of the largest of the Ionian islands and probably one of the most unspoilt, Kefalonia is situated off the west coast of Greece. The island seems to have escaped at the moment mass tourism but has gained popularity in recent years following it’s use as the location for Louis de Bernières ”Captain Corelli’s Mandolin” which was filmed in the old Sami area.

The island is developed mainly around the coastal edges with pretty fishing villages and breathtakingly beautiful beaches and although the south has lovely sandy beaches, I prefer the more rugged beaches and crystal blue waters to the north and east of the island like Assos, Mytos & Fiscardo

If there is a holiday destination which can offer something for everyone, Kefalonia is it. Those looking for peace and tranquillity will be happier with the smaller resorts, which offer lovely beaches, traditional restaurants and a few secluded bars, while those looking for something a little more lively, will be more at home in one of the livelier resorts like Skala or Argostoli where you will find many a chic bar or Restaurant.

Cuisine

The cuisine is an important part of your holiday in Kefalonia, as fresh produce is used to create beautifully tasty dishes, from freshly caught fish to locally grown vegetables. The tavernas, dotted around the island provide a great atmosphere, delicious food and are a great place to while away a lazy evening.

Two personal recommendations I have are.. The Miklotos Family Restaurant in Skala, in my opinion the best Restaurant in Kefalonia which has an amazing atmosphere as well as superb food and great menu choices plus the most amazing customer service, the restaurant is busy every night and is #1 on our list of must visit restaurants, I personally do not go anywhere else.

Another great favourite of mine is Ireda’s in Fiscardo, this is a family-run restaurant which has been trading for over 5 decades, the homemade bread is to die for along with locally sourced sardines and fresh pasta.

Having enjoyed your dinner, you can head over to one of the late-night bars that provide a wide selection of exciting cocktails and a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Places to stay

There are many places to stay in Kefalonia and many villas to apartments to rent, so in the first instance I would advise trip advisor as a good start, I have stayed in to hotels in the last few years The San Giorgio and The Regina Dell Acqua.

Places to visit

There are many places to visit in Kefalonia, among my favourites are Melissani Lake Melissani Cave (Greek Μελισσάνη) or Melissani Lake, also Melisani is a cave located northwest of Sami about 5 km Southeast of Agia Efthymia, NE of Argostoli and nort west of Paros The Ionian Sea lies to the east with the Strait of Ithica Forests surround the cave and the mountain slope is to the west. the water in the cave is translucent blue and crystal clear.

Fiscardo & Assos

Fiscardo village and the dense forest in the surrounding area have been declared areas of great natural beauty and are protected under Greek law. In recent years a small tourist industry has developed, centred on luxury villas in the area around the village.

This place is a must-visit for all travelling tourists in Kefalonia as mentioned the Restaurant Iridas is a great culinary experience.

Assos is a stunning little bay on the way to Fiscardo with charming taverners and is truly local, it reminds me of Mamma Mia, there is a little bay for swimming and is well worth the drive down to the bay, however parking can be a challenge.

There are so many places to visit I can’t speak about them all! but be assured you will have a great time here in Kefalonia, As for photography well I don’t put the camera down when I’m here so much colour and culture. check out some of the photos I have taken here.