Holidays in the Ionian’s largest and most diverse island.
C
aptain Corelli’s paradise lost: beautiful beaches, delightful ports, a national park and locals always game for a laugh. Between the other islands of the Ionian Sea, stands grand Kefalonia.
Levitating in the depths of a cave
The 50 shades of turquoise in underground Lake Melissani are mesmerising. As you explore it by boat, you’ll think you’re floating in space. With sunlight filtering in from above, the cavern reminds you of a cathedral. And when your boatman bursts into song, the first lilting notes of an Italianate cantata echoing around the walls, you’ll realise that this is a truly heavenly experience.
The mysterious Sea Mills at Fanari, near Argostoli
Once upon a time, the seawater disappeared into ‘swallow holes’ (rocky crevasses) at such a rate that it was used to power two flour mills. No one knew where it went until scientists put a dye in the water that ended up in Lake Melissani on the other side of the island. Kefalonia is full of such strange geological phenomena.
A paradise for sea activities
Kefalonia is the perfect island to explore by boat, with endless private beaches and bays of exceptional beauty, such as Myrto and Makri Gialos. For lovers of action and activities, Kefalonia offers all sorts of water sports at the large organised beaches, as well as sea kayaking and scuba diving in impressive locations full of surprises, such as little caves teeming with underwater life.
Fiskardo: A sailor’s haven
Perfection in miniature, the picturesque port of Fiskardo is hardly a secret to sailors and yacht owners. But landlubbers also love it for its charming 18th-century buildings, which give it a feeling of timelessness that transcends the cheerful hubbub in its popular fish restaurants and boutiques.